Why Do Easter and Passover Fall on Different Dates?

Discover the reasons behind the differing dates for Easter and Passover, exploring their unique calendars and significance.

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Easter and Passover don't always coincide due to different calendars. Easter is based on the Gregorian calendar while Passover follows the Hebrew calendar. Both holidays celebrate significant religious events, but the calculation methods differ. Easter is usually the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, whereas Passover starts on the 15th day of Nisan in the Hebrew calendar, which can lead to different dates.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What determines the date of Easter each year? Easter is determined as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox.
  2. Why is Passover based on the Hebrew calendar? Passover is based on the Hebrew calendar, which follows lunar months, specifically starting on the 15th of Nisan.
  3. Can Easter and Passover ever coincide? Yes, Easter and Passover can coincide, but this happens infrequently due to their different calendrical systems.
  4. What is the significance of Easter and Passover? Both holidays celebrate pivotal religious events; Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus, while Passover celebrates the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt.