Understanding Jews And Judaism #3

What is a Passover (Pesach) Sedar

By the author

A Sedar is the traditional dinner and service Jews observe at Passover.

During the Seder meal, other traditional foods are eaten in addition to the matzah: bitter herbs, parsley, wine, and haroset (bitter herbs), salt water, a roasted egg, and a bit of roasted meat are also on the table.

During all the days of Passover, matzah (unleavened bread) is eaten, while leavened foods such as bread, cake, cookies, cereal, and pasta are forbidden. This is a command in commemoration of the Exodus, when the Israelites were in a hurry to leave Egypt and did not spend time waiting for their dough to leaven (to rise). Exodus ch.12. Certain prayers are added in the synagogue services, and the Torah is read each day of Passover.

Here is the symbolism of the items on the Seder table:

• Matzah — this represents the haste in which the Israelites prepared to leave Egypt.
• Wine — the four cups represent the four expressions of redemption in Exodus 6:6–7.
• The bitter herbs (maror) symbolize the harsh slavery which the Israelites suffered in Egypt. Horseradish and/or romaine lettuce are traditionally used,
• Salt water,
• Charoset — A sweet mixture…