Final answer:
The enemies of Jesus were hesitant to arrest him during Passover because they feared the potential for a riot among the people, during a time when the city was crowded and the sentiments for liberation ran high.
Step-by-step explanation:
The enemies of Jesus did not want to arrest him during the festival of Passover because they feared a riot among the people. Passover was a time when Jerusalem was crowded with Jews from all over the empire. The potential for unrest was high, as Passover commemorated the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage; it was a time ripe with dreams of freedom and memories of rebellion. Additionally, Jesus was well-liked by the common people for his teachings and miracles. The authorities feared that an attempt to arrest him during such a volatile time might spark a public uproar and lead to widespread disorder.
Passover is a significant Jewish holiday that marks the story of Exodus, where Moses led the Jews out of slavery in Egypt, as recounted in the Jewish Bible. It is a time of remembrance and celebration for Jewish people, making the festival a sensitive period for any disruptive actions, such as the arrest of a popular figure like Jesus, who was seen by many as a potential liberator in the spirit of Moses.