The first hand-washing of Passover is purely symbolic, a preparation for the ritual and meal to follow, and an invocation of Miriam's magical well, which we have already mentioned. How often do we take a moment simply to ready ourselves for what comes next? Picture yourself washing away all the grit and grime of the ordinary day, so that you may enter more deeply into the set-aside festival time. Clear your thoughts and be ready for whatever comes your way.


haggadah Section: Urchatz