Centuries ago, only those who were free enjoyed the luxury of dipping their food to begin a meal. In celebration of our people’s freedom, tonight, we too start our meal by dipping green vegetables. However, we also remember that our freedom came after tremendous struggle. We dip our vegetables into salt water to recall the ominous waters that threatened to drown our Israelite ancestors as they fled persecution in Egypt, as well as the tears they shed on that harrowing journey to freedom.

A green vegetable is a reminder of spring, hope, and the possibility of redemption even in the face of unimaginable difficulty. As we mourn those in ancient and recent memory who have lost their lives in search of freedom, we remain hopeful that those who still wander will find refuge.

Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, borei p’ree ha-adama.

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Ruler of the Universe, who creates the fruit of the earth.

(We dip our karpas into the salt water and eat it.)


haggadah Section: Karpas