The term is a neuter noun, often used in the singular form to denote the festival or the meal itself.
Cultural context
Passover is a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, as described in Exodus 12. It involves the sacrifice of a lamb and a ceremonial meal.
Theological significance
In Matthew 26, Passover sets the stage for the Last Supper, symbolizing Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb, fulfilling the Old Testament typology.
The verb is in the active voice, indicating a deliberate action by the subject, in this case, Judas Iscariot.
Cultural context
Betrayal was considered a grave sin, especially in the context of a close relationship like that of a disciple to a teacher.
Theological significance
Judas' betrayal fulfills Old Testament prophecies and sets in motion the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, highlighting themes of human sin and divine sovereignty.