Today is Monday April 18, 2011
Passover
Passover (which begins today) is an eight-day festival in the Jewish religion. It honors the emancipation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. During the first and last two days of Passover, people celebrate the splitting of the Red Sea. On these days, Jewish families light candles at night and enjoy holiday meals. The middle four days of Passover are called Chol Hamoed, or the weekdays of the festival.
In order to honor the matzo (the unleavened bread that the Israelites ate when they left Egypt), Jews are not allowed to eat any "chametz" during Passover. Chametz is leavened grain, or any food or drink that contains wheat, barley, rye, or oats. During the weeks prior to Passover, observant Jewish families also spend time cleaning their homes in order to get rid of any crumbs or traces of chametz.
Another important aspect of Passover is the Sedar, the festive meal eaten in remembrance of the hardships that faced Jew’s ancestors. During the meal, the youngest child is prompted to ask four questions to the adults about the significance of the Sedar symbols. Families also say prayers and read stories during the meal to tell the story of the Exodus.
Today is also Boston Marathon & National Wear Your Pajamas To Work Day & National Animal Crackers Day & Tax Day
"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/
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On this day in History:
| 1775 - American revolutionaries Paul Revere, William Dawes and Samuel Prescott rode though the towns of Massachusetts giving the warning that "the British are coming." 1853 - The first train in Asia began running from Bombay to Tanna. 1934 - The first Laundromat opened. It was in Fort Worth, TX. 1939 - Gene Autry recorded "Back in the Saddle Again." 1949 - The Republic of Ireland was established. 1979 - The TV show "Real People" premiered. |
Quote of the Day:
"Don’t be afraid to take a big step if one is indicated. You can’t cross a chasm in two small jumps." --David Lloyd George
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