Haggadah

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Haggadah (Hebrew: הַגָּדָה

, "telling") is a Jewish text that sets forth the order of the Passover Seder. Reading the Haggadah at the Seder table is a fulfillment of the mitzvah to "tell your son" about the Jewish liberation from slavery in Ancient Egypt as described in the Book of Exodus in the Torah.

Structure and Content[edit | edit source]

The Haggadah is divided into several sections, each with its own significance and rituals. These sections include:

Kadesh – Recitation of the Kiddush blessing and drinking the first of four cups of wine.
Urchatz – The washing of the hands without a blessing.
Karpas – Dipping a vegetable in salt water.
Yachatz – Breaking the middle matzah; the larger piece becomes the afikoman.
Maggid – The telling of the Passover story, including the Four Questions and the Ten Plagues.
Rachtzah – Washing of the hands with a blessing.
Motzi Matzah – Blessing over the matzah.
Maror – Eating of the bitter herbs.
Korech – Eating a sandwich of matzah and bitter herbs.
Shulchan Orech – The festive meal.
Tzafun – Eating the afikoman.
Barech – Recitation of the Birkat Hamazon (Grace After Meals).
Hallel – Recitation of the Hallel psalms.
Nirtzah – Conclusion of the Seder.

Historical Development[edit | edit source]

The Haggadah has evolved over centuries, with its earliest components dating back to the time of the Mishnah. The text has been expanded and adapted by various Jewish communities, resulting in numerous versions and commentaries.

Illustrated Haggadot[edit | edit source]

Many Haggadot are richly illustrated, particularly those produced in medieval Europe. These illuminated manuscripts often include intricate artwork depicting scenes from the Exodus story and the Seder rituals.

Significance in Jewish Culture[edit | edit source]

The Haggadah is not only a religious text but also a cultural artifact that reflects the history and traditions of the Jewish people. It is used annually during the Passover Seder, making it one of the most widely read texts in Jewish homes.