April 27, 2024
The Seder Table
The traditional Seder table includes a number of symbolic objects and foods:
1. The complete Seder table setting includes: The Seder Plate. The following are placed together on a Seder plate or ordinary platter in the center of the table: a roasted shank bone, burned or scorched – commemorates the paschal sacrifice, which are ancestors brought to the temple on Passover in ancient times. Parsley or any green herbs, symbolize the coming of spring, and the perpetual renewal of life, and hints, the ever sustaining hope for human redemption. Bitter herbs – horseradish root symbolizes the bitterness of Israel's bondage in Egypt. Charoset — a mixture of chopped apples, nuts, cinnamon, and wine symbolizes the mortar which the Israelites used to build Pharaoh’s cities. A roasted egg – this symbolizes, the hugger or festival, offering a symbol of life itself, a triumph of life over death.
2. Three matzot placed separately in the sections of a matzo cover or in the folds of an ordinary napkin. Two of these matzot symbolize the two loaves of bread over which the usual benediction is made on sabbath and festivals The third Matzo emphasizes the role of the matzo in the Passover ritual. Its significance is explained during the Seder.
3. Salt water – a small bowl for dipping the greens.
4. Bowl of water and towel – for ritual hand washing.
5. Elijah's cup – special goblet is filled with wine and set up on the table for the prophet Elijah, the herald of redemption.
6. Symbolic foods for all participants — each person should have, or be able to reach, a wine glass, charoset, prepared horseradish, salt water, and parsley.
7. Wine — enough for each person to have four glasses.
8. Haggadah — placed so each person can see one.
9. A cushioned armchair —This is a symbol of freedom.
10. The empty chair — It is customary to leave an empty chair at the table denoting Jews who live in lands where they cannot celebrate Passover as free people.
