For thousands of years, the Jewish people have celebrated the holiday of Passover with a special ceremonial meal, called the Seder. It commemorates our redemption from slavery at the hands of the ancient Egyptians, and is full of rituals and symbolism to help us feel the power of that freedom today. It is a religious and historical event, filled with meaning — and it’s designed to be done together with others.
Written into the opening lines of the Seder text — called the Haggadah — is an Aramaic invitation with the words, “Kol dichfin yeisei vi’yeichal”, meaning, “Whoever is hungry, come eat with us!” Welcoming those in need to share our feast is not optional; it’s baked into the ceremony.
