(b) Describe how Pesach (Passover) is celebrated. Flashcards
Prayers are said for people who are in captivity. Chametz (grain products that are swollen or capable of swelling) is
removed from the house and no chametz is eaten.
Pesach is welcomed into the house with the lighting of candles.
Families often go to the synagogue and on their return there is a special
meal.
The seder meal is a central part of the festival and is eaten on the first
and second nights of the festival.
All the readings and instructions for the seder are in a book called the
Haggadah (a book containing the service used at Pesach).
The meal begins with questions from the youngest child, asking about the
Pesach rituals. The origins and symbolism are then explained.
On the table there are many symbolic foods served on a special dish.
These include:
o a lamb bone
o a roasted egg
o a green vegetable to dip in salt water
o bitter herbs made from horseradish – reflecting the bitterness of
slavery
o a paste made of chopped apples, walnuts and wine called Charoset
Specific reference to aspects of the seder meal e.g. songs; four
questions; sitting on cushions etc.
