Learning from the Passover Seder without co-opting it

Jesus’ relationship to Passover is richly present in the biblical accounts of the meal he shares with the disciples before his death. The symbolism of his death at a time of year deep with meaning for him and his people is well explored by those writing in the early Christian tradition, both within and beyond the Bible. For Christians, Jesus and Passover are linked in a way that is difficult to set aside.

Yet for a long time, in many expressions of the church, the Jewish identity of Jesus was just that: set aside. This has had dire consequences. Erasing that identity became a convenient way for Christians to blame, denigrate, and demonize the Jewish people, with often deadly results. Christians are right to acknowledge and repent of this past and present reality.

In some Christian circles, honoring Jesus’ Jewish identity has manifested in a desire to connect to Passover by holding a Seder meal. While usually well intentioned, this practice is problematic for multiple reasons. First of all, current Jewish practice of the Passover Seder began after Jews and Christians had become distinct communities. Jesus’ supper with his disciples would not have resembled a contemporary Passover Seder. What’s more, hospitality is essential to the Passover Seder, and invitations to non-Jewish friends and neighbors are common. If Christians want to experience this rich ritual, they can do so in a Jewish context. Some synagogues even offer interfaith Seders open to the community.