An apostate must not eat from it

This mitzvah prohibits anyone who has rejected the covenant with Hashem from eating the Korban Pesach. Rambam (Hilchot Korban Pesach 9:6) defines a ben nechar (“outsider”) as one who has turned away from Hashem, whether by idolatry or rebellion against Torah.

Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 13) explains that since the Korban Pesach symbolizes covenantal loyalty and redemption, only those who embrace the covenant may participate. The Talmud (Pesachim 96a) teaches that eating the Pesach requires identification with Israel’s faith and destiny. Rashi (Ex. 12:43) clarifies that this law excludes those who cut themselves off from the community of Israel. Ramban expands that Pesach was the foundation of Israel’s covenant — participation without loyalty would desecrate its sanctity.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Korban Pesach 9:6): A ben nechar is one who has turned away from Hashem; such a person may not partake.
• Sefer HaChinuch (13): The Pesach korban is the covenantal meal; only faithful members may join.
• Talmud (Pesachim 96a): Excludes apostates to preserve the sanctity of the korban.
• Rashi (Ex. 12:43): Explains the verse refers to one who has alienated himself from Hashem.
• Ramban (Ex. 12:43): Participation without loyalty would profane the covenant.

Contrast with Inclusion of Converts (Mitzvah 14):

• Converts are commanded to be loved and welcomed, and once circumcised they may eat the Pesach (Ex. 12:48).
• Rambam emphasizes that exclusion of apostates is not about foreign birth but about rejection of Hashem.
• Sefer HaChinuch notes that converts exemplify covenantal embrace, while apostates embody rejection.

Parallel to Circumcision Requirement (Mitzvah 414):

• Just as the uncircumcised cannot eat the Pesach, so too the apostate is excluded.
• Talmud (Pesachim 96a) links both exclusions to covenantal loyalty.
• Ramban stresses that Pesach is reserved for those fully bound to Hashem in sign and deed.