Nisan is a significant month in the Bible, particularly in the Jewish calendar. It marks the beginning of the year for religious observances and is associated with important biblical events. Most notably, Nisan is the month in which Passover (Pesach) occurs, commemorating the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt.
But what does the Bible say about Nisan? Why is it important in Jewish and Christian traditions? This topic explores the meaning, biblical references, historical context, and spiritual significance of Nisan.
What Is Nisan?
Definition and Meaning
Nisan (also spelled "Nissan") is the first month of the Hebrew religious calendar and the seventh month of the civil calendar. It typically falls between March and April in the Gregorian calendar.
The name Nisan comes from the Akkadian language and means "beginning" or "blossom," reflecting the start of spring. In the Bible, this month was originally called "Abib", meaning "ripening" or "ears of grain."
A Sacred Month
Nisan is considered a holy month because it marks:
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The Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt.
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The establishment of Passover (Pesach) as a lasting ordinance.
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The beginning of the Jewish religious year, according to God’s command in Exodus.
Nisan in the Bible
The Bible mentions Nisan in several key passages, emphasizing its importance in God’s plan for Israel.
1. Exodus 12:2 – The First Month of the Year
"This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you."
God established Nisan as the first month of the religious calendar for the Israelites. This decree was given just before the first Passover, signifying a new beginning for God’s people.
2. Exodus 13:4 – The Month of Abib
"This day came ye out in the month Abib."
Before being called Nisan, the month was known as Abib. It was during this time that God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.
3. Esther 3:7 – Nisan in the Persian Era
"In the first month, that is, the month Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, they cast Pur, that is, the lot, before Haman from day to day, and from month to month, to the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar."
During the Persian Empire, Nisan was still recognized as the first month. This verse refers to Haman’s plot against the Jews, which was later overturned by Queen Esther.
4. Nehemiah 2:1 – Nisan in the Time of the Return to Jerusalem
"And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king."
This passage describes Nehemiah’s request to rebuild Jerusalem, showing that Nisan remained a key month even during Jewish exile.
Key Events That Happened in Nisan
1. The First Passover (Exodus 12:1-30)
Passover is the most significant event in Nisan. It commemorates the tenth plague in Egypt, when God struck down the firstborn sons of the Egyptians but spared the Israelites who had marked their doorposts with the blood of the lamb.
This event symbolizes freedom, redemption, and God’s faithfulness. Passover continues to be celebrated by Jewish people today.
2. The Israelites’ Exodus from Egypt (Exodus 13:3-10)
In Nisan, the Israelites left Egypt, fulfilling God’s promise of deliverance from slavery. This marks the beginning of Israel’s journey toward the Promised Land.
3. The Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ
Many scholars believe that Jesus was crucified and resurrected during Nisan, aligning with the Passover festival. This is why Easter is often celebrated around the same time as Passover.
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Jesus’ Last Supper was a Passover meal.
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His crucifixion occurred during the Passover preparation.
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His resurrection fulfilled God’s promise of new life and redemption.
For Christians, Nisan represents both the Old Testament Exodus and the New Testament redemption through Christ.
The Spiritual Significance of Nisan
Nisan is not just a historical month-it holds deep spiritual meaning for believers today.
1. A Time of New Beginnings
Since Nisan is the first month of the religious year, it represents a fresh start. It is a time to:
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Renew faith and commitment to God.
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Reflect on past deliverances and God’s faithfulness.
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Seek spiritual growth and renewal.
2. A Season of Redemption and Freedom
Both the Exodus and Jesus’ crucifixion happened in Nisan, making it a powerful reminder of:
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God’s power to save (Exodus).
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Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity (New Testament).
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Freedom from sin and spiritual bondage.
3. A Call to Spiritual Preparation
During Nisan, the Israelites had to cleanse their homes of leaven (symbolizing sin) before Passover. This teaches believers to:
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Examine their hearts and remove spiritual impurities.
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Seek God’s guidance for the new season ahead.
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Prepare for God’s blessings and direction.
How Nisan Is Observed Today
1. Passover Celebrations
Jewish communities worldwide still observe Passover in Nisan, following traditions such as:
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The Seder meal, which includes symbolic foods.
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Reading the Haggadah, recounting the Exodus story.
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Removing leavened bread, representing purification.
2. Reflection and Renewal
Many believers, both Jewish and Christian, use Nisan as a time to:
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Fast and pray for spiritual renewal.
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Remember God’s deliverance in their lives.
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Prepare for new spiritual journeys.
3. Easter and Resurrection Sunday
For Christians, Nisan is a time to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, which aligns with Passover’s theme of redemption. Easter services often focus on:
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The significance of Christ’s sacrifice.
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The victory of new life and salvation.
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The hope of eternal life through Jesus.
Nisan is one of the most important months in the Bible, symbolizing deliverance, renewal, and redemption. It marks:
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The beginning of the Jewish religious year.
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The Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt.
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The establishment of Passover.
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The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
For both Jews and Christians, Nisan is a time to reflect on God’s faithfulness, seek spiritual renewal, and celebrate freedom in Him. Whether through Passover, Easter, or personal devotion, this month reminds us that God is a deliverer, a redeemer, and a source of new beginnings.