FESTIVAL IN JESUS’ TIME

AN ASSIGNMENT WRITTEN

BY:

BENEDICT SHEKWONUCHYI EZEKIEL

MATRIC NUM; O8366

SUBMITTED TO: REV DR M. D, OLAJIDE

IN PARTIAL FUFILMENT OF THE COURSE REQUIREMENT

COUSRES TITLE: SYNOPTIC GOSPEL
COURSE CODE: MNT624

ECWA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY IGBAJA, KWARA STATE

APRIL, 2024
 Table of contents

Introduction

The concept of festival

The origin of festival

The purpose of festival

Jesus and festival

The significance of festivals in Jesus’ days

Lessons to learn

Conclusion

Bibliography
Introduction
Feasts and festivals are a feature of all major religions. Most people who call
themselves Christians observe Christmas and Easter. Some keep various other holy days as
well. Festivals in Jesus Time hold a special place in the hearts of its people. These
celebrations go beyond mere merriment and serve as a powerful tool for preserving cultural
heritage, strengthening community bonds, promoting spiritual growth, and enhancing
personal development. In this paper, we will examine jesus’ participation in festivals, it is
good to note that Festivals are part and parcel of human society. Festivals have the ability to
recreate and enliven the community in varied dimensions, socially, spiritually, culturally,
economically,
The concept of festival
Etymologically the term festival derives ultimately from the Latin festum. But
originally latin had two terms for festive events: festum, for "public joy, merriment, revelry."
and feria, meaning "abstinence from work in honor of the gods." Both terms were used in the
plural, festa and feriae, which indicates that at that time festivals already lasted many days
and included many events.1 ln classical Latin, the two terms tended to become synonyms, as
the two types of events tended to merge of "enpty" (which could be taken to indicate that
festival is a gathering of people to celebrate something. It can also refer to a one-day or more.
Martha asserts that “Festivals may be religious or national celebration”. 2 They also may be
events which feature different cultural programs such as music, dancing, poetry, movies etc., 3
Festivals are cultural and social events that bring people together to celebrate and enjoy
different forms of artistic expression, music, food and traditions. These events offer a unique
and vibrant experience, and there is a wide variety of festival types to satisfy the interests of
different audiences.4 A festival can be a program of cultural events, celebrations or
entertainment conducted by a person, group, organization or association. 5 Edward Chumney,
says
The etymology of the concept of festival is from the Latin root – festum and
feria. It shows that festival connotes public merriment and concomitant
freedom from laborious activities in honour of the deity because of particular
benefice received by the people or something of great importance that had
happen in the community.6
In contemporary English, festival means (a) a sacred or profane time of celebration,
marked by special observances; (b) the annual celebration of a notable person or event, or the
harvest of an important product, Hitford M. Ruhanen contributed that...
I have decided to use the word festival rather than the word feast. Most Bible
translations use the word feast for the Jewish celebrations. However in modern
English usage the word feast implies a few people getting together for a big
1
Quinn B., Wilks L, Festival Connections, People, Place and Social Capital; in: G. Richards, M. de
Brito, L. Wilks (eds): Exploring the Social Impacts of Events (London: Routledge; ., 2013), 342-362.
2
Martha Zimmerman, Celebrate the Feasts of the Old Testament in Your Own Home or Church
(Minneapolis, 1981), 56.
3
James R. Battenfield, “Festival” retrieved 20-3-2024. https://simple.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Festival

4
Arthur Pink “Definition of festival” retrieved 20-3-2024. https://blog.meetmaps.com/en/what-is-a-
festival-and-what-types-of-festivals-are-there/
5
Joachim Jeremias, “Pasha,” Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, ed., Gerhard Friedrich,
(Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1968), vol. 5, 901.
6
Edward Chumney, The Seven Festivals of the Messiah (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 1994),87.
 meal, whereas festival means a large gathering of people often from all over
the country, not particularly for eating. The word festival is therefore a much
better description of what happened at the various Jewish celebration times.
They were not primarily times of eating, but were times of national assembly
to celebrate great events in their history and times in the agricultural year. 7
The concept of a festival in ancient Israel can be defined as a time of celebration and
worship that was set apart from the regular routines of daily life. “Festivals were often
associated with agricultural events, such as the harvest, but they could also commemorate
historical events or commemorate a religious theme. For example, the Day of Atonement
commemorated the reconciliation between God and his people. In general, festivals were a
time for the people to come together and express their gratitude to God, as well as to
celebrate and enjoy the blessings of life”. 8 Another important element of the concept of
festival in ancient Israel was the idea of hospitality. During festivals, it was customary for
people to open their homes to guests and to share food and drink. This was seen as a way of
strengthening social bonds and promoting unity within the community. Hospitality was also
seen as a way of showing generosity and gratitude to God. Additionally, festivals often
included music, dancing, and storytelling, which helped to foster a sense of community and
connection.
Origin of festival
The origins of the festivals in the Old Testament can be traced back to a variety of
sources. Some of the festivals were derived from ancient Israelite traditions, while others
were influenced by neighboring cultures or were adopted from the Canaanites. For example,
the Feast of Tabernacles is thought to have its origins in the ancient Israelite harvest festival
of Sukkot. Another example is the New Moon Festival, which may have been influenced by
the Babylonian new moon festival.9
Types of festivals
There were several types of festivals that were observed in the Old Testament. The
three major types were annual, monthly, and weekly festivals. Annual festivals were
observed once a year, such as the Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles. Monthly festivals
were celebrated on the first day of each month, such as the New Moon Festival. Weekly
festivals were observed every seventh day, such as the Sabbath. Within each of these
categories, there were also subcategories of festivals, such as pilgrim festivals, temple
festivals, and private or domestic festivals. 10 The researcher will like to talk more about some
of the specific festivals in the Old Testament. Let's start with the Passover, which was one of
the most important annual festivals. It commemorated the Israelites' deliverance from slavery
in Egypt, and it was celebrated with a meal that included roasted lamb, unleavened bread, and
bitter herbs. It was also a time of family gatherings and storytelling.
1. Passover (Pesach): Celebrated to remember the Israelites' liberation from slavery in
Egypt. The word “PESACH”11 means Pass Over. “The meal eaten at this celebration is

7
Hitford M., Ruhanen L., Indigenous Festivals and Community Development, A Socio-Cultural
Analysis of an Australian Indigenous Festival. “Event Management”, 2013: 17, 49-61.
8
W. F. Stinespring, “Temple: Jerusalem,” The Interpreters’ Dictionary of the Bible vol. 4, (Nashville,
1962), 554.
9
J. Van Goudoever Biblical Calendars (Leiden, 1961),16.

10
Ellen G. White, “Is the Blood on the Lintel?” Advent Review and Sabbath Herald (May 21, 1895), .
2.
11
Ibid, 57.
 the seder.”12 Seder means ‘order’. And it is based on the directives of Exodus 12.
The meal consists of “matzah”13 (unleavened bread), and bitter herbs. It may also
include green vegetables, a roasted egg an apple or a nut mixture. 14 The festivals of
the first month were centred on the Passover. This festival recalled the dramatic
events that took place when the children of Israel came out of Egypt. Robert Beecham
added “In Egypt they were slaves. Cruel taskmasters forced them to work hard.
Generations of Israelites lived and died without knowing happiness or freedom. At
last God heard their cry and sent a deliverer to set them free. Moses led them out of
Egypt and eventually to the land of Israel.”15 Moses instructed the Israelite to…
"Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of
bondage; for by strength of hand the LORD brought you out of this place.
No leavened bread shall be eaten. On this day you are going out, in the
month Abib. And it shall be, when the LORD brings you into the land of the
Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Hivites and the
Jebusites, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with
milk and honey, that you shall keep this service in this month. Seven days
you shall eat unleavened bread, and on the seventh day there shall be a
feast to the LORD. Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days. And no
leavened bread shall be seen among you, nor shall leaven be seen among
you in all your quarters. And you shall tell your son in that day, saying,
'This is done because of what the LORD did for me when I came up from
Egypt.' It shall be as a sign to you on your hand and as a memorial between
your eyes, that the LORD's law may be in your mouth; for with a strong
hand the LORD has brought you out of Egypt. You shall therefore keep this
ordinance in its season from year to year.” Exodus 13:3-10…
2. Feast of Unleavened Bread: Observed immediately after Passover to remember the haste
with which the Israelites left Egypt.
3. Feast of Firstfruits: Celebrated at the beginning of the grain harvest to offer thanks to
God for the first fruits of the harvest.
4. Feast of Weeks (Pentecost): Held 50 days after Passover, marking the summer harvest
and the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai.16
5. Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah): A celebration of the Jewish New Year, marked by
blowing the shofar.
6. Day of Atonement: A solemn day of fasting and repentance, seeking forgiveness for sins.
The Day of Atonement (known to many by its Hebrew name “Yom Kippur”17 was the most
solemn festival of the calendar, and it was followed by the most joyful festival.
7. Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): A week-long festival commemorating the Israelites' time
in the wilderness, marked by living in temporary shelters.

12
John macarthur “Festivals and Feasts of Israel and the Bible” retrieved 20-3-2024.
https://www.rocksolid1024.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Festival-and-Feasts-of-Israel-and-the-Bible.pdf
13
Davis, John J., and John C. Whitcomb, Passover feast Reprint ed., (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House,
1980),688.
14
Herbert W. Armstrong, God’s Festivals and Holy Days (Pasadena, 1992), . 7.

15
Robert Beecham “The Festivals of Israel and their Spiritual Meaning” July 1995 retrieved 20-3-
2024. http://www.growthingod.org.uk/feasts.pdf
16
Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, What Christians Should Know About Jews and Judaism (Waco, 1984), 107.

17
Ibid,
 These festivals were important occasions for the Israelites to gather, worship, and
remember their history and relationship with God.
Purpose of festival
The purpose of establishing festivals in the Old Testament was multifaceted. The
festivals in the Old Testament served several purposes:
1. Remembrance: The festivals commemorated significant events in Jewish history,
such as the Exodus from Egypt, the giving of the Law, and God's provision during the
wilderness wanderings. They helped the Israelites remember and celebrate God's faithfulness.
The festivals were intended to help the Israelites remember important events in their history.
2. Covenant Renewal: Many festivals were times for the Israelites to renew their covenant
relationship with God. Through rituals, sacrifices, and prayers, they reaffirmed their
commitment to follow God's commandments.
3. Community and Unity: Festivals brought the community together for worship, feasting,
and fellowship. They reinforced the sense of belonging to the people of Israel and
strengthened communal bonds. The festivals were intended to promote unity and community
among the Israelites.
4. Spiritual Reflection: The festivals provided opportunities for introspection, repentance,
and spiritual growth. They allowed individuals to reflect on their relationship with God, seek
forgiveness for sins, and renew their spiritual lives.
5. Gratitude and Thanksgiving: Festivals often included offerings and sacrifices as acts of
gratitude to God for His provision and blessings. They were occasions to express
thanksgiving for the abundance of the harvest or deliverance from enemies.
6. Teaching and Instruction: The festivals served as teaching moments for passing down
religious traditions, history, and values to future generations. They were opportunities to
educate the young about the faith and its practices.
Overall, the festivals in the Old Testament played a central role in the religious,
social, and cultural life of the Israelites, shaping their identity as God's chosen people and
guiding them in their relationship with Him.
Jesus and festival
The life of Jesus
Jesus of Nazareth is a figure who has captivated the hearts and minds of millions of
people throughout history. His identity, however, remains a subject of debate and
fascination.18 In this paper, we will explore the multifaceted identity of Jesus and his
participation on festival activities in his days. To understand the identity of Jesus, it is crucial
to examine the historical records and testimonies that validate his existence. The accounts of
Jesus’ life found in the New Testament, written by his disciples and early followers, provide
valuable insights into his teachings, miracles, and interactions with people. Additionally,
there are references to Jesus in the works of historians such as Josephus and Tacitus, further
corroborating his historical presence. These historical records, although not without their
critics, offer compelling evidence for the existence of Jesus as a real person who walked the
earth. “One of the most intriguing aspects of Jesus’ identity is the claims he made about his
divinity.” Throughout his ministry, Jesus referred to himself as the Son of God and
proclaimed his unique relationship with the Father. 19 These claims were not only bold but
also had a profound impact on his followers. The miracles he performed, such as healing the
sick and raising the dead, served as tangible evidence of his divine power. The conviction
with which Jesus spoke and the authority he displayed left an indelible impression on those
18
M. R. James, The Epistle of the Apostles 15, The Apocrypha of the New Testament (Oxford, 1924),
489
19
Jur Berh, A Biblical Exposition of Fundamental Doctrines (Washington, D. C., 1988), 196.
who encountered him. Beyond his divine claims, Jesus is renowned for his ethical teachings,
which continue to resonate with people of various faiths and backgrounds. His teachings
emphasized love, compassion, forgiveness, and the importance of treating others with
kindness and respect
Jesus’ approach on festival
Edward Chumney opine that “Jesus participated in the festivals of his time. As a
devout Jew, Jesus observed the religious festivals prescribed in the Old Testament. These
festivals were an integral part of Jewish religious and cultural life during Jesus' time”. 20 In the
New Testament, there are several instances where Jesus is described as attending and
participating in these festivals. For example, the Gospel of John mentions Jesus attending the
Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:2) and the Feast of Dedication (John 10:22). The Gospel of
Luke also records Jesus participating in the Passover festival, including the Last Supper,
which was a Passover meal (Luke 22:7-20). According to Rabbi yechiel:
Jesus' participation in these festivals demonstrates his commitment to the
religious practices and traditions of his Jewish faith. It also provided him with
opportunities to teach and engage with people, as these festivals often drew
large crowds. Furthermore, Jesus often used these festival occasions to teach
important spiritual lessons and reveal deeper truths about himself and his
mission. For example, during the Feast of Tabernacles, Jesus proclaimed
himself as the "living water" and the "light of the world" (John 7:37-38; John
8:12). These teachings were significant and had a profound impact on those
who heard him.21
By participating in these festivals, Jesus affirmed the importance of the religious
traditions and practices of his time. However, he also brought a deeper understanding and
fulfillment to these festivals, revealing himself as the ultimate fulfillment of the Old
Testament prophecies and pointing to the spiritual truths behind the rituals.
Jesus actively participated in the festivals of his time as a devout Jew, using
these occasions to teach, engage with people, and reveal deeper spiritual
truths. His participation in these festivals underscores the significance of these
traditions and provides a model for contemporary Christians to appreciate and
engage with their own religious festivals.22
These festivals held great significance in Jewish culture and were prescribed in the
Old Testament. Jesus, being a devout Jew, adhered to the religious practices and traditions of
his time. The Gospels provide accounts of Jesus attending and participating in various
festivals.23 These festivals were occasions for communal worship, reflection, and celebration,
and Jesus actively engaged with the people during these times. 24 In a nutshell, His
involvement in these festivals emphasized the importance of religious traditions and
practices, while also revealing deeper spiritual truths and pointing to his own role as the
fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Throughout the New Testament, Jesus' interactions
during the festivals served to fulfill Old Testament prophecies, reveal His identity as the
Messiah, offer salvation, and establish the foundations of the Christian faith. His presence

20
Edward Chumney, The Seven Festivals of the Messiah (Shippenburg, Pensylvania, 1994);

21
Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, What Christians Should Know About Jews and Judaism (Waco, 1984),107.

22
Anthony J. Saldarini, Jesus and Passover (New York, 1984), 4.

23
Ceil Rosen and Moishe Rosen, Christ in the Passover (Chicago, 1978),30.

24
Bruce J. Lieske, A Guide to the Celebration of a Christian Passover (St. Louis, 1980),39.
and teachings during these festivals brought new meaning and fulfillment to the traditional
Jewish celebrations.
One of the primary reasons for celebrating festivals in Jesus days is to
preserve and pass on cultural traditions from one generation to another. These
festivals serve as a living testament to the customs, rituals, and values that
have shaped the community over the years. Through vibrant displays of
traditional attire, music, dance, and cuisine, the festivals create a sense of pride
and identity among the people. The younger generation, in particular, benefits
from witnessing and participating in these cultural practices, as it instills in
them a deep appreciation for their roots and a desire to carry forward the
legacy25
Significant of festivals to contemporary Christians
Festivals hold great significance to contemporary Christians as they provide a time for
communal worship, reflection, and celebration of key events in the Christian faith. Festivals
such as Christmas and Easter are central in the Christian calendar, reminding believers of the
birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus, is a time of joy, love, and giving for
Christians. It's an opportunity to reflect on the miraculous incarnation of Jesus and the
promise of salvation he brings.
Easter, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, is the most important
festival in the Christian calendar. It symbolizes hope, renewal, and victory over sin and death.
Easter is a time for Christians to remember the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus and the promise of
redemption for all believers. Other festivals, such as Pentecost and All Saints’ Day, also hold
significance for contemporary Christians, emphasizing themes like the gift of the Holy Spirit
and honoring the saints and martyrs of the faith.
Festivals play a crucial role in the life of contemporary Christians by deepening their
faith, fostering a sense of community, and providing meaningful opportunities for worship
and reflection. Paul told the Corinthian brethren that they should continue to keep this feast
that followed the Passover: "Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the
leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth" (1
Corinthians 5:8). We see, then, that the spiritual meaning of the Days of Unleavened Bread
was revealed. Its deeper significance wasn't ultimately found in what had occurred in the Old
Testament, but in Jesus Christ, the sinless Savior who purged our sins and allows us to be
spiritually "unleavened" before God.
Lesson for contemporary Christians to learn
There are several lessons that contemporary Christians can learn from the festivals of
the Old Testament and New Testament, those are;
1. The importance of remembering God's faithfulness: Many of the festivals in the Old
Testament were designed to help the Israelites remember God's faithfulness in the past. For
example, the Feast of Passover commemorated the Israelites' liberation from slavery in
Egypt. Similarly, Christians can use festivals like Easter and Christmas to remember God's
faithfulness in sending Jesus to save humanity from sin and death.
2. The value of community: Festivals in the Old Testament were often communal
events, bringing together people from different tribes and families to celebrate together. This
sense of community is also important for contemporary Christians, who can use festivals as
an opportunity to connect with others in their church and build relationships. “The festivals of
the Old Testament can provide valuable lessons and insights for contemporary Christians,
helping them to deepen their faith, build community, and live out their beliefs in practical

25
Hayyim Schauss, Guide to Jewish Holy Days: History and Observance (New York, 1962),46-47.
ways.”.26 “This sense of community was important for the Israelites, who were often scattered
throughout the land and faced many challenges.”27
3. The need for sacrifice: Many of the festivals in the Old Testament involved
sacrifices of animals or other offerings. While Christians are no longer offer animal
sacrifices, they can still learn from the idea of sacrifice by giving of their time, talents, and
resources to serve others and honor God. “Many of the festivals involved sacrifices of
animals or other offerings, which were seen as a way of honoring God and seeking his favor.
While Christians no longer offer animal sacrifices, they can still learn from the idea of
sacrifice by giving of their time, talents, and resources to serve others and honor God.”28
4. The importance of repentance: Some festivals in the Old Testament, such as the
Day of Atonement, were focused on repentance and seeking forgiveness for sins. Christians
can also use festivals as a time to reflect on their own sinfulness and seek forgiveness from
God and others. “some festivals in the Old Testament were focused on repentance and
seeking forgiveness for sins. For example, the Day of Atonement was a solemn day of fasting
and repentance, during which the Israelites sought forgiveness for their sins and made
offerings to God. Christians can also use festivals as a time to reflect on their own sinfulness
and seek forgiveness from God and others.”
Overall, the festivals of the Old Testament provide valuable lessons and insights for
contemporary Christians, helping them to deepen their faith, build community, and live out
their beliefs in practical ways.

Conclusion
Like Passover, Pentecost is a remarkable typological feast which began in the Old
Testament as the celebration of the blessings of the spring harvest and continues in the New
Testament as a celebration of the spiritual harvest of souls reaped by Christ’s redemptive
ministry. The continuity of Pentecost in the Christian church is attested to not only by the
references to the feast in the New Testament, but also by its widespread observance in the
early church. These festivals serve as a practical way to express our gratitude to god in
bringing a special thanksgiving offering. As the Israelites did to express their gratitude in, so
we, too, can bring to god a special thanksgiving offering for the material and spiritual
blessings received.

Bibliography
Anthony J. Saldarini, Jesus and Passover, New York, 1984.
Arthur Pink “Definition of festival” retrieved 20-3-2024. https://blog.meetmaps.com/en/what-
is-a-festival-and-what-types-of-festivals-are-there/
Bruce J. Lieske, A Guide to the Celebration of a Christian Passover. St. Louis, 1980.
Ceil Rosen and Moishe Rosen, Christ in the Passover. Chicago, 1978.

26
George Ogg, Historitcity and Chronology in the New Testament (London,1965),82..

27
Norval Geldenhuys, Commentary on the Gospel of Luke (Grand Rapids, 1983),657.

28
Joachim Jeremias, The Eucharistic Words of Jesus ( Oxford, England, 1995),16.
Davis, John J., and John C. Whitcomb, Passover feast Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Baker
Book House, 1980.
Edward Chumney, The Seven Festivals of the Messiah, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 1994.
Edward Chumney, The Seven Festivals of the Messiah, Shippenburg, Pensylvania, 1994.
Ellen G. White, “Is the Blood on the Lintel?” Advent Review and Sabbath Herald May 21,
1895.
George Ogg, Historitcity and Chronology in the New Testament London,1965.
Hayyim Schauss, Guide to Jewish Holy Days: History and Observance, New York, 1962.
Herbert W. Armstrong, God’s Festivals and Holy Days, Pasadena, 1992.
Hitford M., Ruhanen L., Indigenous Festivals and Community Development, A Socio-
Cultural Analysis of an Australian Indigenous Festival. “Event Management”,
2013.
J. Van Goudoever Biblical Calendars..Leiden, 1961.
James R. Battenfield “Festival” retrieved 20-3-2024.
https://simple.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Festival
Joachim Jeremias, “Pasha,” Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, ed., Gerhard
Friedrich, Grand Rapids, Michigan, vol. 5, 1968.
Joachim Jeremias, The Eucharistic Words of Jesus, Oxford, England, 1995.
Jur Berh, A Biblical Exposition of Fundamental Doctrines, Washington, D. C., 1988.
M, Cogan “Festivals and Feasts of Israel and the Bible” retrieved 20-3-2024.
https://www.rocksolid1024.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Festival-and-
Feasts-of-Israel-and-the-Bible.pdf
M. R. James, The Epistle of the Apostles 15, The Apocrypha of the New Testament, Oxford,
1924.
Martha Zimmerman, Celebrate the Feasts of the Old Testament in Your Own Home or
Church, Minneapolis, 1981.
Norval Geldenhuys, Commentary on the Gospel of Luke , Grand Rapids, 1983.
Quinn B., Wilks L, Festival Connections, People, Place and Social Capital; in: G. Richards,
M. de Brito, L. Wilks (eds): Exploring the Social Impacts of Events , London:
Routledge; ., 2013.
Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, What Christians Should Know About Jews and Judaism, Waco,
1984.
Robert Beecham “The Festivals of Israel and their Spiritual Meaning” July 1995 retrieved
20-3-2024. http://www.growthingod.org.uk/feasts.pdf
W. F. Stinespring, “Temple: Jerusalem,” The Interpreters’ Dictionary of the Bible vol. 4,
Nashville, 1962