Why is this night different from all other nights?
We know the traditional answers to this question. We know about eating matzoh, and bitter herbs, about dipping, and reclining. But there are far deeper answers that connect the themes of Passover to our world's most pressing problems.
On most other nights we allow the news of tragedy in distant places to pass us by. We succumb to compassion fatigue- aware that we cannot possibly respond to every injustice or tragedy that arises around the world.
On this night, we are reminded that our legacy as the descendants of slaves creates in us a different kind of responsibility- we are to protect the stranger because we were strangers in the land of Egypt.
Let's add a fifth question: How can we make this year different from all other years?
When tasting matzoh, the bread of poverty, find ways to help the poor and the hungry.
When eating the bitter herbs, commit to help those whose lives are embittered by disease.
When dipping our food into salt water, share the tears of sadness of those who are oppressed by others and those who feel vulnerable and hopeless.
When thinking about the 10 ancient plagues, commit to help those who suffer from today's afflictions- earthquakes, hurricanes, tainted water, HIV, Zika, ...
When reclining in celebration of our freedom, seek opportunities to help those still oppressed today including but not limited to the young girls in Nigeria (Boku Haram), the refugees being forced to flee Syria, women and children forced to work long hours without rest or sustenance in dangerous and unsanitary conditions, and to the victims on both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Think about those in our own country who face discrimination either because of their race, their religion, or their sexual orientation.
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Passover Guide
Hosting your first Passover Seder? Not sure what food to serve? Curious to
know more about the holiday? Explore our Passover 101 Guide for answers
to all of your questions.