A full cup of wine symbolizes complete happiness. The triumph of Passover is diminshed by the sacrifice of many human lives when ten plagues were visited upon the people of Egypt. In the ancient story, the plagues that befell the Egyptians resulted from the decisions of tyrants, but the greatest suffering occured among those who had no choice but to follow. It is fitting the we mourn their loss of life, and express our sorrow over thier suffering. For as Jews and as Humanists we cannot take joy in the suffering of others. Therefore, let us diminish the wine in our cups as we recall the ten plagues that befell the Egyptian people.


haggadah Section: -- Ten Plagues