The Passover is named for the passing over of the Israelites, who remained in their homes while the Death Angel moved through Egypt. This event, distinct from the sacrifice, defines the day, as the sacrifice itself came to be named because of God's passing over. Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread are two separate memorials of closely occurring but distinct events, to be observed on separate days, with Passover on the fourteenth and the first day of Unleavened Bread on the fifteenth, as God's Word clearly commands. The significance of God's passing over is central to understanding the purpose of Passover. It is not merely about the killing of the lamb, but encompasses a series of detailed instructions that must be followed. These include selecting the lamb, killing it, applying the blood to the doorposts and lintel, roasting it in fire, eating it in haste, and not leaving the house until morning. Even after the Death Angel passed over, further actions were required to complete the keeping of Passover, showing that God's commands remained unchanged even after the immediate danger had passed. God's purpose in the Passover, highlighted by His passing over the Israelites, emphasizes a lifelong process of obedience, not just a singular act of sacrifice. Eating and drinking of the Passover, as commanded, signifies this ongoing commitment. God's Word remains firm that unless one partakes as instructed, there is no life in them, underscoring the importance of adhering strictly to His commands regarding this event.

In the context of observing God's ordinances, the significance of timing and location during the first Passover is paramount. God's instructions were clear that the Passover lamb was to be killed at ben ha arbayim, the twilight period following sunset, marking the beginning of the fourteenth day of the first month. This timing ensured that the entirety of the Passover events occurred on the fourteenth, distinct from the Feast of Unleavened Bread on the fifteenth. The lambs were killed at the houses of the Israelites, located in the land of Goshen, not assembled in Rameses or dwelling in tents. God's command emphasized the importance of remaining in their houses, as He would pass over the doors marked with blood to protect those within from the destroyer. The repeated mention of houses in the scriptures underscores that the Passover was to be observed in their homes in Goshen, a specific area distinct from other parts of Egypt, where God made a difference between His people and the Egyptians. At midnight on the fourteenth, the Death Angel passed over the houses of the Israelites, sparing them while striking the Egyptians. This event was accompanied by a great cry throughout Egypt, indicating the immediate and painful impact of the deaths. The Israelites, in fear and obedience to God's command, stayed in their houses throughout the night of the fourteenth, not daring to leave until morning, defined as boqer, the period following the night, lailah. God's instruction was to remain in their homes until boqer, ensuring no confusion or premature departure, aligning with the natural signal of dawn visible to all.

The Passover is named for God's passing over the children of Israel while they remained in their houses. This significant event, marking God's protection over His people, is specifically noted to have occurred in their homes, not in tents or gathered elsewhere. This detail underscores the personal and intimate nature of God's deliverance as the Israelites were spared during this divine act. The importance of this setting in their houses is highlighted as a key element in understanding the circumstances of the Exodus and the departure of the children of Israel from Egypt.