שבת הגדול
Shabbat HaGadol
Shabbat HaGadol (the Great Shabbat) is the Shabbat before Passover, traditionally featuring a special rabbinic sermon on Passover laws.
When is Shabbat HaGadol 2026?
Observed on
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Shabbat HaGadol is the Shabbat immediately before Passover.
Significance
Shabbat HaGadol commemorates the miracle when Israelites set aside their Paschal lambs in Egypt without Egyptian interference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shabbat HaGadol
Shabbat HaGadol (the Great Shabbat) is the Shabbat immediately before Passover. It is called 'gadol' (great) because a great miracle occurred on this day: the Israelites in Egypt set aside lambs for the Passover sacrifice without the Egyptians, who worshipped lambs, stopping them.
The rabbi traditionally delivers a lengthy sermon (drasha) about the laws of Passover, reviewing the rules of chametz and the Seder. Part of the Haggadah is read during the afternoon, beginning with 'Avadim Hayinu' (We were slaves). A special haftarah from Malachi 3:4-24 is read, which ends with the prophecy of Elijah heralding the great day of God.
About Shabbat HaGadol
Shabbat HaGadol (שבת הגדול) is one of the important holidays in the Jewish calendar. This page provides the dates for Shabbat HaGadol 2026 and information about its meaning and observance.