Is Nisan 14 Always on a Full Moon? Understanding the Hebrew Calendar

Explore whether Nisan 14 always coincides with a full moon in the Hebrew calendar. Discover how lunar phases affect key dates.

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Nisan 14, according to the Hebrew calendar, is not always on a full moon but usually falls close to it. The Hebrew calendar is lunisolar, meaning it relies on both moon phases and solar years. The full moon typically occurs around the middle of the lunar month, close to Nisan 14, but it is not guaranteed to align exactly.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the significance of Nisan 14? Nisan 14 is significant as it marks the time of Passover in the Hebrew calendar, commemorating the Exodus.
  2. How does the Hebrew calendar differ from the Gregorian calendar? The Hebrew calendar is lunisolar, based on both lunar months and solar years, while the Gregorian calendar is strictly solar.
  3. When does the full moon occur during the Hebrew calendar? The full moon typically occurs around the 14th day of the lunar month, but it may not align precisely with Nisan 14.
  4. Why do Hebrew calendar months vary in length? Hebrew calendar months alternate between 29 and 30 days, adjusting to lunar cycles and ensuring that the calendar stays aligned with the seasons.