Passover 2010

Passover is not like other Holidays in which we commemorate a particular event or miracle. Rather, the obligations is upon us to feel as though we have just been physically and emotionally been redeemed from the slavery in Egypt. We must demonstrate our freedom by playing the part of a free person and actively celebrating that freedom.

Passover is, in essence, the Birthday of the people of Israel. The defining event that brought them together for the first time as a nation and set the stage for arrival in the land of Israel after hundreds of years in exile.

Passover through the Seder(Seder means order), is active demonstration of freedom; the food we eat, the prayers we say and the stories we tell bring this experience to life. Seder starts with a young child going out the house and knock. Who's there? ask those inside. An Israelite responds the child. Where are you coming from they ask? From Egypt says the child. Where are you going they ask? To the land of Israel he exclaims. The child then re-enters and the seder begins with Kadesh (Sanctifying the day over a cup of wine).

The first of the seder nights is drinking 4 cups of wine, in tribute to the almighty for the four promises made and fulfilled concerning the redemption. In honor of Elijah, an additional globlet of wine is placed on the table, this wine is not drank. Elijah is a symbol of peace and freedom that will one day reign throughout the world.