Hebrews of Guyana observe Passover

The Hebrew Family of Guyana recognizes Passover as the day of independence in the community and observances were held here from dusk yesterday until earlier today.

Passover is celebrated on the 14th day of the first month (Aviv) of the Hebrew calendar year; Aviv commenced on April 4 of the calendar year.

The Hebrew Family of Guyana said in a press statement yesterday that Passover is not a religious day but a national day for African Hebrew Israelites because, “it is the time when the Almighty freed us from the bonds of Egypt”.

The release said the day of independence should be recognized in this country, noting that immediately after Passover the Feast of Unleavened Bread Season commences.

The feast lasts seven days and during this period Hebrews abstain from starch, fermented sour food and vinegar products. They eat bread without any raising agent, the bread of haste or unleavened bread and they also stay away from rice, channa, cake and peas, among other foods.

“As we observe Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread we remember the haste with which we left Egypt and remain humble in our eating. When we were on the exodus of Egypt there was no time for much preparation, such as waiting for bread to rise,” the statement added.