JL;DR

Selling chametz before Passover is a customary practice in Judaism that allows Jews to adhere to the prohibition of owning chametz during the festival. This practice has both historical roots and practical rationales. Historically, it stems from Jewish communities wanting to maintain possession of their chametz in a permissible manner without violating religious laws, especially when disposing of large quantities could be wasteful or financially burdensome. The procedure ensures that none of the chametz is owned by Jews during Passover, as ownership is ceremoniously transferred, usually to a non-Jew, through a rabbi or community leader. This complex yet efficient practice illustrates the adaptability of Jewish law in balancing religious observance with daily life needs.