שבת החודש
Shabbat HaChodesh
Shabbat HaChodesh features a maftir about establishing Nisan as the first month and the laws of the Passover offering.
When is Shabbat HaChodesh 2026?
Observed on
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Shabbat HaChodesh falls on the Shabbat on or before Rosh Chodesh Nisan.
Significance
Shabbat HaChodesh announces Nisan, the month of redemption. Establishing a Jewish calendar was the first commandment given to the nation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shabbat HaChodesh
Shabbat HaChodesh is the fourth and final special Shabbat before Passover, observed on the Shabbat before or on Rosh Chodesh Nisan. The special maftir from Exodus 12:1-20 describes the very first commandment given to the Jewish nation — the establishment of the Hebrew calendar and the laws of the Passover offering.
Nisan is considered the first of the months, as God declared to Moses: 'This month shall be for you the beginning of months.' It is the month of redemption, when the Exodus from Egypt took place. The reading on Shabbat HaChodesh heralds the approaching Passover season and the themes of national freedom and divine redemption.
About Shabbat HaChodesh
Shabbat HaChodesh (שבת החודש) is one of the important holidays in the Jewish calendar. This page provides the dates for Shabbat HaChodesh 2026 and information about its meaning and observance.