By Samantha Kaplan

Dates for Passover 2009

Outside of Israel:  Sundown Wednesday, April 8^th to sundown Thursday, April 16^th    In Israel: Sundown Wednesday, April 8^th to sundown Wednesday, April 15^th

Why is Passover observed for eight days in America, but only seven in Israel?

          This custom dates back to the Sanhedrin (ancient high court) determining the calendar and dispensing the information to Jews in the Holy Land and in Diaspora communities. Jews continue to do it today because it reinforces the distinction of living in Israel and living outside of it.

How do I know if I am Sephardic or Ashkenazic?

          Being Sephardic or Ashkenazic refers to geographical ancestry. Generally Ashkenazi denotes the area of Eastern Europe, France, and Germany. Sephardic Jews come from Spain or Portugal.  A third category, Mizrachi, refers to Jews who trace their ancestry to Middle Eastern or Central Asian countries.  These Jews tend to share major traditional observances with the Sephardic tradition, and are often labeled as such for simplicity's sake.

What does my ancestry have to do with Passover?

          Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jews have different traditions and legal obligations; the food restrictions of Passover represent an excellent example of the latter.

What if I am from mixed ancestry?

          Traditionally one follows the customs of one's father.

Am I really required to eat a certain amount of matzoh every day?

          No. The Talmud requires one to eat an olive sized portion (kezayit) of matzoh at the Seder. There has been much debate about whether this term refers to size or weight. It has been accepted that one should eat the weight of this measure, about 5 grams, which is about one-sixth piece of matzoh. 

Chametz, kitniyot, what?

          Chametz: This term applies to breads, grains, and leavened comestibles that are not consumed by Ashkenazic or Sephardic Jews during Passover. Prior to Passover one is required to remove chametz from one's home. Traditional methods include burning, selling or donating it, as well as nullifying ownership of the chametz via an Aramaic statement uttered by the head of the   household.

          Kitniyot: Traditional Ashkenazi Jews also refrain from foods that they feel resemble chametz or could have easily been contaminated by chametz. Sephardic Jews do not follow this minhag (custom).

Chametz                                                       Kitniyot

Wheat                                                          Corn

Barley                                                           Rice

Spelt                                                            Peas

Rye                                                              Lentils

Oats                                                             Beans (this includes soy)

                                                                   Sesame & Poppy Seeds

                                                                   Mustard

                                                                   Peanuts (this is debated)