Learn more about Nisan

Introduction to Nisan

The word “Nisan” refers to the first month of the ecclesiastical year in the Hebrew calendar and the seventh month of the civil year. It plays a foundational role in the religious and agricultural life of ancient Israel. This month, corresponding roughly to March-April in the Gregorian calendar, marks the beginning of spring and is most notably associated with the Passover festival and the Exodus from Egypt. Nisan is a month deeply connected to the themes of liberation, covenant, and new beginnings in the biblical narrative.

Nisan Pronunciation

“Nisan” is pronounced as NEE-sahn, with the emphasis on the first syllable.

Nisan in the Bible

Nisan is specifically mentioned in the Bible as a sacred time for key historical and religious events:

• Esther 3:7: The month of Nisan is referenced in the context of the Persian calendar. It is the month when Haman cast lots (Pur) to determine the date for the destruction of the Jews, which led to the events commemorated by the feast of Purim.
• Nehemiah 2:1: In the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, during the month of Nisan, Nehemiah made his request to the king to rebuild Jerusalem, initiating a pivotal moment in post-exilic Jewish history.
• Exodus 12: Although the name “Nisan” is not used, this chapter details the institution of the Passover, which occurs in the first month. Later Jewish tradition identified this month as Nisan. The Exodus from Egypt, a defining act of divine deliverance, happened in this month.

Nisan in Biblical History and Context

The name "Nisan" comes from the Akkadian “Nisanu,” indicating the Babylonian influence on Jewish calendrical terms during and after the Babylonian exile. In the Torah, this month was originally called the “first month” and was set apart as the beginning of months for Israel (Exodus 12:2). The central religious festival of Passover, followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread, occurs during this time. These observances commemorate the Israelites' deliverance from slavery and underscore themes of redemption, covenant loyalty, and divine intervention.

After the Babylonian captivity, the Jewish people adopted the Babylonian names for the months, hence “Nisan” became the formal designation for what was simply called the “first month” in the Torah.

Related Themes and Meanings to Nisan

• Passover (Pesach): Nisan 14 marks the beginning of Passover, one of the most significant Jewish holidays commemorating the Exodus from Egypt.
• Unleavened Bread: Starting from Nisan 15 and lasting seven days, this feast further emphasizes the swift departure from Egypt and the purity required of God’s people.
• Redemption and Renewal: The month is symbolic of liberation and new beginnings, both nationally (Israel's deliverance) and spiritually (God’s covenant renewal).
• Springtime and Agricultural Beginnings: As the time of the barley harvest, Nisan aligns with agricultural themes of firstfruits and divine provision.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Nisan

• The command in Exodus 12:2 designates this month as the start of the religious calendar, indicating its theological primacy even over the civil calendar, where Tishri (the seventh month) marks the new year (Rosh Hashanah).
• Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection took place during the Passover in Nisan, making it a crucial month in both Jewish and Christian traditions.
• In Jewish tradition, Nisan is considered a month not suitable for mourning. This is based on its association with redemption and divine favor.
• According to the Mishnah (Rosh Hashanah 1:1), there are four “new years” in the Jewish calendar. Nisan marks the New Year for kings and festivals.

Conclusion

Nisan is far more than a calendar designation; it is a symbol of renewal, divine faithfulness, and foundational moments in salvation history. Its significance spans from ancient Israelite rites to enduring Jewish practices and even to key events in the New Testament. Through its associations with the Exodus, the Passover, and the beginning of sacred observances, Nisan encapsulates the heart of God’s redemptive work in both history and theology.