The Washing of Hands

Haggadah Section: Urchatz

The next item in the Order of Service is a demonstration to the celebrants of an important lesson with regard to our behaviour towards others, to enable us to be part of God’s family. It is a visual ceremony by which a leader or a head is selected to oversee the celebration, and that is settled by ‘the washing of the hands’ (or rechatz - ץחר).​

Originally, and in ancient times when the paschal lamb was sacrificed, more than one family shared one lamb, or enough people to be fully covered and be satisfied by the consumption of one lamb. Therefore it depended on the size of the families in each group to determine how many of them would share one lamb. But each family has its own head, so how could they select a leader over the other heads?​

The selection was done on the occasion and it depended on who were there. Usually the oldest member, or the greatest rabbi (teacher), or a noble, respected member of the group would be chosen, and this was indicated by one of the least members bringing a jug of water, a bowl and a towel. Then in front of all those gathered, he would head toward the chosen leader, and that one would ceremoniously wash his hands. By this action everyone understood who was the Master of the table. In other words, the washing of hands on this occasion was not for cleansing but for appointing the leader. See John 13:3-17; Romans 12:10; Philippians 2:3,4.

Source:  
John Lary

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