As we approach Passover 2025 and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, we are once again reminded of the incredible significance these appointed times hold for us. This year, Passover will begin at sunset on Sunday, April 13, 2025, and the Biblical New Year was ushered in earlier on March 30, 2025. But how do we know when these dates are? And why are they so important?

In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at how the timing for these festivals is determined, using YaHuWaH’s Torah based calendar. From the signs in the heavens to the agricultural cycles established from the very beginning, these dates have a powerful, spiritual significance that we shouldn’t overlook. It’s more than just dates on a calendar—it’s about aligning ourselves with the natural rhythms and timing YaHuWaH created.

Why Is the Timing of Passover and Chag HaMatzot So Important?
As we prepare ourselves for the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzot), many of you have asked questions about how we determine the proper time to observe these sacred days. This kind of inquiry shows just how deeply we all desire to understand the heart of YaHuWaH and walk in His ways.

Passover (Pesach) always takes place on the 14th day of the first month, and the Feast of Unleavened Bread begins immediately that evening which signals the next day (Genesis 1). In this context Passover refers to the actual sacrifice of the lamb. The lamb is eaten at the going down of the sun as an evening meal. The Hebrew day begins at evening so this very moment begins the Festival of Unleavened bread, which is why we eat the meal with Unleavened Bread and bitter herbs. Understanding the timing of these days is essential for walking in harmony with YaHuWaH’s Word and aligning with the rhythms He established in the creation.

This year, the Biblical New Year began at sunset on March 30, 2025, when the first New Moon was sighted in Israel (Exodus 12:2). This marked the beginning of Chodesh HaAviv, or the month of Aviv—the time when the barley is ripened enough to begin harvest, signaling the start of a new year. This is a powerful reminder that YaHuWaH’s calendar is based not on man-made systems but on the natural world He created to point us to His truths.

What Is the Aviv and Why Does It Matter?

The word Aviv holds particular significance in this time of year. It refers to a specific stage in the barley’s ripeness. In fact, in Exodus 9:31-32, we learn that the flax was “in the head” and the barley was “in the Aviv.” This tells us that Aviv is the point when the barley is ready to be harvested, signaling that the new year is upon us. We are told we must not appear before YaHuWaH empty handed therefore the offering of the barley in the state of Aviv is vital.

YaHuWaH doesn’t do anything by coincidence. The ripening of the barley, which happens at the same time the sun’s strength increases, is a natural sign from Him, telling His people that it’s time to celebrate His appointed feasts. This moment of ripeness marks not just the start of a new agricultural season but also the spiritual preparation required for His people to enter into His presence during these sacred days.

Understanding the Torah Calendar: A Spiritual Design
The Biblical calendar follows a beautiful luni-solar system, where both the moon and sun are used as signs for marking appointed times (Genesis 1:14). The moon helps us determine the start of each month, and the sun marks key points in the solar cycle—like the Spring Equilux, when day and night are nearly equal in length.

When the Spring Equilux occurs, the sun’s growing strength causes the barley to ripen, signaling the time for the Feast of Unleavened Bread and Passover. This alignment is not just about following a calendar; it’s about understanding the spiritual truths embedded in the creation around us. The barley’s ripening is a sign for us to prepare spiritually as well, making sure that our hearts are ready for the Passover sacrifice and the cleansing that comes with the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Sometimes the barley is delayed due to weather or rain, in this case the New Year is determined to be a month later so that one will not violate the clear instructions to have Passover in the month of Aviv and that one must have the offering of Aviv for Unleavened Bread. Therefore Unleavened Bread is an agricultural celebration which also hinges on the offering of the barley’s First Fruits.

From Aviv to Sukkot: The Full Circle of the Biblical Year
The cycle of the Biblical year doesn’t end with Passover and Chag HaMatzot. Fifty days from the offering of the Aviv Barley’s First Fruits there is yet another offering of the First Fruits of Wheat during Shavuot or Pentecost. The agricultural year commences, with Chag HaSukkot—the Feast of Tabernacles (Exodus 23:16; Leviticus 23:39). While Passover marks the beginning of the cycle, Sukkot marks its completion, just as the harvest season comes to an end. This cyclical pattern reminds us that YaHuWaH’s appointed times are not random. They reflect the natural rhythms of life, from the beginning of the harvest to its completion, and they are all part of YaHuWaH’s plan.

Preparing Our Hearts for Passover 2025
As we get closer to Passover 2025 and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, it’s important to reflect on what these days really mean. Passover is not just about a meal—it’s about remembering the great deliverance YaHuWaH provided His people when He brought them out of Egypt. It’s about redemption, freedom, and spiritual renewal.

In light of the signs we’ve explored, let’s make sure our hearts are ready for what’s to come. This is a time to cleanse our homes and our hearts, remove the “leaven” of sin, and prepare for the renewal YaHuWaH offers us through His appointed times.

As we prepare spiritually and physically for Chag HaMatzot, let’s remember that these appointed times are about more than just tradition—they are an invitation to deeper intimacy with YaHuWaH, who longs to meet us where we are and lead us into the fullness of His salvation.

Conclusion: Aligning with the Creator’s Calendar
In the end, the calendar of YaHuWaH is not just a system of dates but a profound expression of YaHuWaH’s design. By understanding the signs that mark these appointed times, we can align our lives with the Creator’s rhythms and experience His blessings in ways that are both practical and deeply spiritual.

As we enter into Passover 2025 and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, let’s approach this season with hearts full of gratitude for YaHuWaH’s compassion and favor. May we walk in the rhythms He has set in motion, and may we always be ready to hear His voice as we prepare for the coming of His Kingdom.

Several years ago I created The Feasts of YaHuWaH Series to help end the unnecessary confusion on this subject. I would advise one and all to study that series and take notes! YaHuWaH be with you all!

Messenger Of The Name