Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Exodus 12:1-14

Roman Catholic Lens Reading of Exodus 12:1-14

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a foundational moment in salvation history, prefiguring the Paschal Mystery of Christ. The institution of the Passover by God is a sign of His covenantal love and a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God. In this passage, we see the importance of ritual and liturgical remembrance as the Israelites are commanded to celebrate the Passover perpetually. This aligns with our understanding of the Mass as the re-presentation of Christ's sacrifice, a living memory of what God has done and continues to do for us through the Eucharist.

Key Language Decisions

In the original Hebrew, the term 'Pesach' (Passover) signifies 'to pass over' or 'to spare,' emphasizing God's merciful deliverance. The Hebrew word 'zakar' (to remember) in verse 14 indicates not just a mental recall but a participatory memorial, which aligns with our understanding of the Eucharistic anamnesis. This supports the Catholic interpretation of the Mass as a living sacrifice, not merely a symbolic act.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike some Protestant traditions that may see the Passover as a mere historical event, we emphasize its sacramental and typological significance, seeing it as a prefiguration of the Eucharist. While Jewish tradition views Passover as an essential commemoration of liberation, our tradition interprets it as pointing toward ultimate liberation in Christ. This difference underscores our sacramental theology, where past events are made present in the liturgy.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we must guide our congregations to see the continuity between the Passover and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. This passage invites us to reflect on how God’s saving actions in history are made present in the Eucharist. We should encourage the faithful to live their lives as a perpetual 'Passover,' always aware of Christ's sacrificial love transforming us. In our preaching, let us emphasize the importance of liturgical participation and the need for spiritual preparation, just as the Israelites prepared for their deliverance. The congregation expects to hear how this sacred history is not only remembered but relived in every Mass.

Cross-References: 1 Corinthians 5:7-8; John 1:29; Luke 22:19-20; Hebrews 9:11-14; Catechism of the Catholic Church 1362-1366

Doctrinal Connections: The Eucharist as the source and summit of the Christian life; Transubstantiation and the Real Presence; The sacrificial nature of the Mass; The development of doctrine and the continuity of salvation history; The importance of liturgical tradition and anamnesis