Definition: In the first [month], on the fourteenth day of the month at even, ye shall eat unleavened bread, until the one and twentieth day of the month at even.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 12:18. It’s a really important part of the story of the Israelites leaving Egypt! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling the Israelites (the Israelites’ ancestors) to start eating unleavened bread for 14 days. Let's unpack that a little bit further: “In the first [month], on the fourteenth day of the month at even…” This tells us when this rule begins. It’s happening in the very beginning of the Passover season – a time when the Israelites were about to be freed from slavery. “Even” means the middle of the month. “…ye shall eat unleavened bread…” This is the key part! They are specifically allowed to eat bread made without yeast (which makes it rise). This was a HUGE deal for the Israelites, because regular bread was forbidden in Egypt. It showed their faith and independence. "...until the one and twentieth day of the month at even." This sets a deadline. They have to continue eating this bread for 14 days, but they need to stop exactly on the 20th day of the month. This is a crucial detail – it’s a marker that marks the end of the Passover period. What was happening before this? The story goes that during the Exodus, God miraculously sent the Israelites out of Egypt. They were told to leave behind their bread and food, so they would have enough for a long journey. This rule was set as a reminder of this parting and as a promise of sustenance for them on their travels. In short, it’s a symbolic act – a promise of freedom and sustenance – that reminds the Israelites to be grateful to God for their liberation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some historical context about Passover?