Four entered the prison and watched people die: the wicked, the liberal, the vulnerable, and the abolitionist. A horrible guilt came over them all. The wicked laughed and played God, saying “those who are dying deserve to die.” About him it is written, “The fool’s lips swallow him up.” (Ecclesiastes 10:12) The liberal looked and said, “I’m just one person, I can’t stop this death machine!” and ran away. About her it is said, “when people are afraid of heights, and of obstacles on the way, when the grasshopper drags itself along and the libido is still, then they will go to their eternal home.” (Ecclesiastes 12:5) The vulnerable looked and died. About them it is written, “Don’t be too righteous or too wise—why destroy yourself?” (Ecclesiastes 7:16) The abolitionist entered in peace and left in peace, bringing the prisoners with them. About them it is written, “For whoever is bound to life, there is hope.” (Ecclesiastes 9:4)


haggadah Section: Hallel
Source: Min Ha-Meitzar: An Abolitionist Haggadah from the Narrow Place by Noraa Kaplan