For decades, one movie has become a tradition for millions of TV viewers every spring: The Ten Commandments (1956). The epic film directed by Cecil B. DeMille is typically aired on TV during the Easter season. This annual event is not just a coincidence.

The timing of Passover and Easter

The film’s showings line up with Passover, which always occurs around the same time as Easter. Passover and Easter usually fall close to each other on the calendar, though the dates can vary each year. Passover is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the Exodus, the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. This story is the heart of The Ten Commandments. Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is a Christian holiday. The timing of both holidays is rooted in the Jewish lunar calendar, which is why they often coincide.

Since The Ten Commandments tells the biblical story of Moses, it’s a natural fit for TV airings during this time of year. The film’s focus on the Exodus ties directly to the themes of freedom and redemption celebrated by both Passover and Easter.

The movie’s strong religious themes

At its core, The Ten Commandments is a religious epic. The story follows Moses from his early life in Egypt to his role as the leader who delivers the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny. The film also covers Moses receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, which are central to both Jewish and Christian teachings. This makes the movie an ideal watch for those observing the spiritual significance of Passover and Easter.

The film’s themes of faith, sacrifice, and divine intervention resonate deeply during these holidays. Whether it’s watching Moses part the Red Sea or seeing him confront Pharaoh, viewers connect with the timeless message of liberation and hope. Many people find comfort in watching The Ten Commandments during this season, as it reinforces the values and traditions associated with both Passover and Easter.

A television tradition

Over the years, TV networks have made The Ten Commandments an Easter tradition. The film’s large scope and dramatic storytelling make it a perfect choice for holiday programming. It’s an epic movie that families can enjoy together, often with commercial breaks to stretch the nearly four-hour runtime. For many, watching The Ten Commandments has become as much a part of Easter as decorating eggs or attending church services.

The film’s annual TV showings are typically on Easter weekend, sometimes airing on the Sunday night before Easter or during Passover itself. With its long history of broadcast during this time, The Ten Commandments has become synonymous with the season. Families gather to watch it year after year, knowing it’s a part of the holiday celebrations.

The tradition of airing The Ten Commandments during Easter and Passover shows how powerful the film’s message remains. Despite being over six decades old, the movie continues to captivate audiences. Its annual TV showings provide an opportunity for new generations to experience the story of Moses in a way that feels both timeless and relevant.

For many, The Ten Commandments will always be part of the Easter experience. As long as Passover and Easter continue to fall near each other, we can expect the film to remain a holiday staple on TV. Whether for its historical significance, its powerful performances, or its message of faith and redemption, The Ten Commandments has earned its place in the hearts of viewers year after year.