At Passover, we are confronted with the stories of our ancestors’ pursuit of liberation from oppression. Facing this mirror of history, how do we answer their challenge now?

As reflect on the Jews’ fight for justice from the Egyptians, it is impossible not to think of our world today. Entering the year 2020, we have been witness to an unprecedented pandemic. This is a time that requires us – all of us – to join hands for the greater good. As we confront this time of crisis, we have seen the power of action and the destruction of evil, the influence of goodness and the cost of apathy. The values of the Four Children – wicked, wise, simple, indifferent— have come alive. We can see just how the decisions these four characters make and the questions they ask can have lasting consequences.

During this time of trial and uncertainty, as we are asked to limit our social time together in order to secure the safety of humankind, how does each child respond?

The wise child is engaged, asking how they can best serve and fight for their community.

The wicked child rejects the notion of acting on the behalf of others, too concerned with their own happiness to worry about the world around them.

The simple child shrugs and follows the crowd into isolation. This child is not curious as to what they can do to help, but is willing to abide by the new social norms for as long as its convenient to them.

Finally, the indifferent child, the one who doesn’t know how or what to ask, does not understand just how important their role is in ensuring the safety of their peers. It is the job of the wise child, and others who have chosen to take action, to remind the indifferent child just how impactful their engagement can be.

Where do you see the Four Children reflected  in yourself? In your community? In the world today? Where can each of us inspire change in the “children” that most need it?


haggadah Section: -- Four Children