To slaughter the Paschal sacrifice at the specified time

Pesach – פֶּסַח

• Sefer HaChinuch (5) explains that the Korban Pesach memorializes Hashem’s redemption, instilling gratitude and loyalty. Talmud (Pesachim 96a) calls it a central sign of the Exodus, symbolizing Divine deliverance and covenant.

Temple – בֵּית הַמִּקְדָּשׁ

• Rambam (Korban Pesach 1:3) codifies that the Pesach is only valid in the Temple courtyard, tying redemption’s memory to the Mikdash. Ramban comments that the Temple centralizes Israel’s devotion through this unique korban.

Sacrifices – קָרְבָּנוֹת

• Talmud (Pesachim 59b) stresses the Pesach’s timing as part of korban order, teaching its priority. Sefer HaChinuch emphasizes that this korban, unlike others, is defined by communal eating, reflecting its dual role as sacrifice and shared meal.

Mizbeach – מִזְבֵּחַ

• Rambam (Issurei Mizbeach 1:7) rules that only unblemished animals fit for the altar may serve as Pesach offerings. The Mizbeach thus testifies to Israel’s purity and loyalty in the act of redemption.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• Rashi (Ex. 12:6) highlights the phrase “all the congregation,” teaching that the Korban Pesach unifies Israel. Talmud (Pesachim 64a) adds that offerings were slaughtered in three waves of the entire nation, visibly embodying communal participation.

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Ramban explains that slaughtering the lamb — an Egyptian deity — was an act of faith, trusting Hashem over societal fear. Midrash Shemot Rabbah (16:3) states that Israel’s public slaughter proved their loyalty to Hashem’s covenant.

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Sefer HaChinuch teaches that the korban elevates ordinary animals to holiness, symbolizing Israel’s sanctification. Talmud (Pesachim 70b) connects the Pesach to broader holiness of festivals, as its observance sanctifies the calendar year.

Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם

• Rambam (Korban Pesach 1:1) writes that strict timing teaches reverence for Hashem’s word. Midrash Tanchuma (Bo 7) emphasizes that awe was manifest when Israel carefully followed exact instructions at the Exodus.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• Talmud (Pesachim 91a) explains that the Pesach obligation is directly to Hashem — even those ritually impure must seek the Second Pesach to fulfill it. Ramban highlights that this korban uniquely demonstrates Israel’s devotion to Hashem alone.