Was the Bread at the Last Supper Unleavened?

Theological Significance and Historical Context

The question of whether the bread Jesus used at the Last Supper was unleavened has long been a subject of discussion among Christians. This point has even contributed to the division between the Catholic and Orthodox churches, a split known as the Great Schism. Growing up Catholic, I was taught that the bread used by Jesus during the Last Supper would have been matzo, specifically of the softer variety commonly used for Passover.

However, it's important to consider the theological implications of leavening in the context of the Seder and the broader traditions of Passover. Eastern Orthodox churches use leavened prosfora loaves, which carry significant theological importance. Nevertheless, the nature of the unleavened bread used at the Last Supper holds a special place in Christian traditions, especially in the context of Passover.

The Last Supper is often interpreted as a celebration of Passover, and scholars generally agree that the Seder was a pre-rabbinical form of the Passover meal. Accordingly, the bread would have been unleavened, closely resembling what we now call soft matzo. This type of bread is particularly associated with Yemeni Jews and those seeking deeper traditional insights.

From a Christian perspective, the use of unleavened bread can symbolize the sinless nature of Jesus, as leavening is often compared to sin. This symbolic representation underscores the importance of Jesus' sacrifice and the purity it brings.

Biblical References and Interpretation

The events of the Last Supper are not directly mentioned under the term "Last Supper" in the Bible. Instead, we find references to the preparation and celebration of Passover in various gospel accounts.

Passover in the Synoptic Gospels

The first three Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) provide detailed accounts of Jesus's last meal with his disciples. In Matthew 26:17-20, Mark 14:12-18, and Luke 22:7-20, we see the disciples preparing to celebrate the Passover meal.

One of the key preparations involved finding a place to hold the Seder. For example, in Matthew 26:17-19, Mark 14:12-16, and Luke 22:7-13, Jesus instructs his disciples to find a prepared guest room for their meal. It is important to note that finding an unleavened Seder for the Passover adhered to the commandment in Shemoth (Exodus) 12:8 that the meat of the Passover lamb is to be eaten "with unleavened bread and with bitter herbs."

Symbolic Significance

After the meal, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and distributed it among the disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is my body.” Simultaneously, he took the cup of wine, blessed it, and passed it around, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." In Mark 14:22-24 and Luke 22:19-20, the accounts are nearly identical.

The use of unleavened bread aligns with the traditional Passover observance and serves as a powerful symbol. It emphasizes the purity, the sinlessness of Jesus, and the metaphorical cleansing that his sacrifice provides.

Conclusion and Further Reflection

The question of whether the bread at the Last Supper was unleavened remains a point of interest and reflection among scholars and believers. For many Christians, the use of unleavened bread during Holy Communion serves as a tangible reminder of Jesus's sacrifice and the continuation of the covenant he established.

Ultimately, the precise type of bread used is not as significant as the spiritual and theological significance behind it. Whether it was matzo, matza, or some other form of unleavened bread, the symbolic power of the moment remains paramount in Christian practice and belief.