The Torah contains 4 expressions of redemption: “I brought you out,” “I saved you,” “I redeemed you,” and “I took you to me as a People.” These correspond to 1) Relief from persecution 2) Ending of slavery, 3) Leaving Egypt 4) Receiving the Torah as a nation onMount Sinai.

Interestingly, Torah is included as a way we became free.

“Torah” literally means “instructions.” The Torah is G-d’s instruction manual to humanity. Cell phones, ipods, laptops – they all come with instructions. Ignore the instructions and you will miss out on a lot. Life too comes with a manual designed to teach us about ourselves - about how to have great relationships, how to achieve meaning, and develop spirituality. True freedom is more than no restrictions, it’s the ability to express our true selves.

Rabbi Simcha Barnett


haggadah Section: Kadesh