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A Truly meaningful Seder!

On Seder night we ask the Ma Nishtana and its four questions. This kicks off the mitzva of Sipur Yetzias Mitzrayim. Later we speak about the four sons and how they each react to the events around them. Why is it that the telling over the story of Yetzias Mitzrayim on Seder night is based on question and answer from the children as opposed to all other mitzvos?

Yetzias Mitzrayim is one of the pivotal events in Jewish history and the basis for many mitzvos as it often says “Zecher Yetzias Mitzrayim”. The foundations of our nation and our emunah, hinge on events that transpired over 3000 years ago. It shows us that we have a Father in heaven who loves us and turns the world on its head when He so desires. He knows when to put us down and how to make us rise again from the ashes. All for our own good. That Yetzias Mitzrayim happened with all its details is something that is passed down from father to son from generation to generation.

At the Seder each father gives over this tradition to his son. Because of its importance it is crucial that it is given over with clarity and that the child understands it completely, without any doubts and without and questions. A good teacher explains things until his student fully grasps the material and has clarified everything that troubles him. The lesson is not over until the teacher asks, “Anymore questions?” If it is silent and there are no further questions only then is the lesson complete.

Be sure at this year’s Seder to teach your children/learn from your father the significance of this monumental night. If they ask questions themselves then you have a smart bunch on your hands and you have what to work with. If not then “At Pisach Lo”. Get into their brain and help them out. Make this year’s Seder truly meaningful.