Passover
Passover, which begins today, is an eight-day festival in the Jewish religion that commemorates the emancipation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. During the first two days and the last two days of Passover, the splitting of the Red Sea is celebrated. On these days, candles are lit at night and Kiddush holiday meals are enjoyed by Jewish families. The middle four days of Passover are called Chol Hamoed, which stands for the semi-festive "intermediate days."
To honor the matzo, or unleavened bread, that the Israelites ate when they left Egypt, Jews are not allowed to eat any "chametz" from midday of the day before Passover until the conclusion of the holiday. Chametz is leavened grain, or any food or drink that contains a trace of wheat, barley, rye, or oats.
Typically during the weeks prior to passover, Jewish families spend a lot of time cleaning their homes in order to get rid of all traces of chametz. For example, any kitchen utensil that has handled chametz during the year must be fully cleansed to remove all traces of it.
Children also play a very important role in the Sedar, the festive meal eaten at Passover. The youngest child is prompted to ask four questions to the adults about the significance of the symbols in the meals. Readings, prayers, and stories are also used during the meal to recount the story of the Exodus.
March is National Peanut Month & International Ideas Month & National Craft Month
On this day in History:
1932 - Jack Benny made his radio debut.
1943 - U.S. rationing of meat, butter and cheese began during World War II.
1962 - Jack Paar made his final appearance on the "Tonight" show.
1967 - France launched its first nuclear submarine.
1976 - In Memphis, Bruce Springsteen jumped a fence at Graceland in an attempt to see his idol, Elvis Presley.
Quote of the Day:
"I just never let anything bother me, man. I know myself really well. Nobody's opinion of me can shake my opinion of myself."
Ruben Studdard
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