Passover combines the celebration of a historical event with a recognition of the cycles of nature. As we remember the liberation from Egypt, we also recognize the beginning of spring and the rebirth happening in the world around us.

This year those in Charlottesville are so fortunate to be surrounded by such beauty.  We have also been given time to explore outside and watch the trees and bushes bud their light green baby leaves.  We are also surrounded with sorrow as we explore these beautiful lands without so many people we love.

Take a piece of parsley (representing our joy at the dawning of spring after a long, cold winter) and dip it in salt water (a symbol of the tears our ancestors shed as slaves). Before we eat it, we recite a short blessing.

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בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ, אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, בּוֹרֵא פְּרִי הָאֲדָמָה

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

We praise God, Ruler of Everything, who creates the fruits of the earth.

We all have aspects of ourselves that sometimes get buried under the stresses of our busy lives. What is an element of your own life that you hope to revive this spring?

This is also a great time for crudites and fun dips.


haggadah Section: Karpas