[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 14 (Monday, April 9, 2001)]
[Page 584]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of Passover

April 6, 2001

    I am pleased to send warm greetings to Jews around the world 
celebrating the Passover holiday, beginning at sundown on April 7. As 
you gather with family and friends, eat traditional foods, and sing 
joyous songs, you follow in the footsteps of your forefathers in 
remembering the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt nearly 3,500 years 
ago.

    During this season of renewal, the Passover holiday commemorates the 
liberation of the Jewish people from slavery. Through the years, Jewish 
sages have taught that the lesson of freedom found in the miracle of 
Passover has two important aspects. The first is the escape from 
physical bondage and the regaining of dignity and equality by the 
individual and by a people. Equally important is spiritual liberation 
from selfish desires and destructive habits.

    The flight from slavery led quickly to Mount Sinai and the Holy 
One's gift of the Commandments to Moses and the Israelites. They were 
then fully free to follow the Creator's laws in striving to perfect 
their own lives and the world in which they lived. The connection 
between freedom from bondage and the gift of the Commandments enhances 
Passover's abiding influence, not only as a Jewish holiday, but also as 
an inspiration to all mankind.

    Laura joins me in sending best wishes for a joyous and memorable 
holiday observance.

                                                George W. Bush