Seder is a Hebrew word that means order or arrangement, and the Pesach (Passover) Seder is the ritual feast that includes the narrative of the Israelites slavery in Egypt and the miracles leading to and through the Exodus. The Seder is replete with customs and symbolism including four cups of wine representing the four expressions of Godâ??s promise of redemption used in the Torah along with the bitter herbs representing the bitterness our ancestors suffered while in slavery.
In the beginning of the Seder shortly after the prayer blessing over the wine, we identify the Matzot, the unleavened bread, and say the simple, yet beautiful, Ha Lachma Anya. It reads in part, â??This is the bread of affliction that our fathers ate in the land of Egypt. All who are hungry, let them come eat. All who are in need, let them celebrate the Pesach with us.â? Many households actually open the front door at Ha Lachma Anya as a gesture of invitation to the needy.
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