Why are legumes not kosher for Pesach?

Legumes, like beans, lentils, and peas, are not kosher for Passover due to a halakhic (Jewish legal) ruling that they are considered kitniyot.

Kitniyot refers to a category of foods that are forbidden during Passover. The exact origin of this prohibition is debated, but the most common explanation is:

* Historically: Kitniyot was a common practice in ancient Israel, where these foods were often stored in the same containers as grains, leading to a possibility of contamination with chametz (leaven).

* Symbolically: Kitniyot represents the non-agricultural aspect of Egypt, where the Israelites were enslaved.

The ruling on kitniyot is not based on inherent religious impurity, but rather on the potential for contamination and the symbolism of avoiding certain foods during Passover.

It's important to note that the prohibition on kitniyot is a custom, not a law. Some Jewish communities, particularly in the US and Europe, do consume kitniyot during Passover.

However, in many other communities, particularly those who follow a stricter interpretation of Jewish law, kitniyot remains forbidden throughout the holiday.