Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'you shall eat nothing leavened' mean in Exodus 12:20?
A: This verse commands the Jewish people to avoid eating any chametz (leavened bread or fermented grain products) during Passover. According to Rashi, this prohibition reminds us of the haste in which our ancestors left Egypt, not having time for their dough to rise. The mitzvah applies to all Jewish homes, emphasizing the importance of observing this law wherever we live.
Q: Why is eating matzah (unleavened bread) important on Passover?
A: Eating matzah on Passover commemorates the Exodus from Egypt, as the Israelites left in such haste that their bread did not have time to rise (Exodus 12:39). The Rambam explains that matzah symbolizes both our suffering in Egypt (as it is simple and humble) and our swift redemption. It serves as a tangible reminder of Hashem's miracles and our ancestors' faith.
Q: Does the prohibition of chametz apply outside of Israel?
A: Yes, the Torah explicitly states 'in all your habitations,' meaning the prohibition of chametz applies to Jews everywhere, not just in Israel. The Talmud (Pesachim 3a) discusses this universal application, and halacha (Jewish law) requires all Jews to remove and avoid chametz during Passover, regardless of location.
Q: What practical lesson can we learn from Exodus 12:20 today?
A: This verse teaches us the importance of spiritual readiness and breaking free from 'puffed-up' arrogance (symbolized by chametz). The Sefat Emet explains that just as we remove physical chametz, we must work on removing ego and pride. Matzah's simplicity reminds us to return to humility and faith in Hashem, values that remain essential in daily life.
Q: How long does the commandment to eat matzah and avoid chametz last?
A: The Torah commands this observance for all seven days of Passover (in Israel; eight days in the Diaspora). The Talmud (Pesachim 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition is constant throughout the holiday—we may not eat chametz at any time, while there is a positive mitzvah to eat matzah specifically on the first night (and optionally thereafter).
Prohibition of Chametz and Mitzvah of Matzah
The verse (Shemot 12:20) establishes two fundamental commandments related to Pesach: the prohibition against consuming chametz (leavened products) and the positive commandment to eat matzah (unleavened bread). Rashi explains that the phrase "כָּל־מַחְמֶצֶת לֹא תֹאכֵלוּ" ("You shall eat nothing leavened") refers not only to chametz itself but also to any mixture containing chametz, emphasizing the strictness of this prohibition during Pesach.
Geographical Scope of the Mitzvah
The phrase "בְּכֹל מוֹשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם" ("in all your habitations") teaches that these laws apply universally, whether one is in Eretz Yisrael or outside of it. The Rambam (Hilchot Chametz U'Matzah 6:1) rules that the mitzvot of chametz and matzah are binding in all places and for all generations, underscoring their eternal nature.
Symbolism of Matzah
The Mechilta connects the eating of matzah to the haste of the Exodus, as the dough did not have time to rise when Bnei Yisrael left Mitzrayim. The Seforno adds that matzah represents humility and simplicity, contrasting with the inflated nature of chametz, which symbolizes arrogance and the yetzer hara (evil inclination).
Halachic Implications
The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 442:1) elaborates on the practical requirements: chametz must be removed from one's possession, and matzah must be eaten on the first night of Pesach. The Mishnah Berurah emphasizes that the matzah must be guarded from becoming chametz from the time of harvesting the wheat (or at least from the time of grinding), known as matzah shmurah.