Why Is This Year Different?
A Practical Guide To The Laws That Apply
When Erev Pesach Occurs On Shabbat
By Rabbi Philip Ginsbury M.A . z”l
Revised and updated by Rabbi Dr Yoni Birnbau
The problems that arise when erev Pesach falls on Shabbat are not new. In Talmudic times it was Hillel’s expertise in this area of Jewish law which gained him the position of Nasi (religious leader) in preference to other scholars. Yet the problems are by no means as complex as at first appears. With careful planning, the variations from other years can add an exciting new dimension to the celebration of the festival. Through injecting both joy and meaning into the ceremonies preparatory to Pesach, the celebration of the festival can make a lasting impact on every Jewish home.