Why Does Nisan 14 Change Each Year? Understanding the Hebrew Lunar Calendar

Discover why Nisan 14 varies annually based on the Hebrew lunar calendar and its significance to Passover celebrations.

80 views

Nisan 14 changes every year due to its basis on the Hebrew lunar calendar, which follows the cycles of the moon rather than the sun. This leads to variability in relation to the Gregorian calendar. Festivals like Passover hinge on this date, celebrated beginning at sunset on Nisan 14. The lunar months don't align perfectly with the solar year, leading to yearly shifts in the Gregorian date.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the significance of Nisan 14? Nisan 14 is significant as it marks the beginning of Passover, celebrating the Exodus from Egypt.
  2. How does the Hebrew lunar calendar work? The Hebrew lunar calendar is based on the moon's cycles, causing its months to shift in relation to the solar calendar.
  3. Why does the date of Passover change? The date of Passover changes because it is determined by Nisan 14, which varies annually according to the lunar calendar.
  4. What other Jewish holidays are based on the lunar calendar? Other Jewish holidays based on the lunar calendar include Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot.