שבת הגדול
Shabbat HaGadol 2014
Find the exact dates for Shabbat HaGadol 2014 (5774), including when it begins and ends.
When is Shabbat HaGadol 2014?
Observed on
Saturday, April 12, 2014
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.
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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 in 2014
Shabbat HaGadol (שבת הגדול) dates change each year because Jewish holidays follow the Hebrew lunisolar calendar.
For more about Shabbat HaGadol including its history, customs, and traditions, see our comprehensive guide. Learn more about Shabbat HaGadol