So now we come to the part where we tell the big story of the Jewish people’s enslavement and Moses’ leadership and G-d’s help and our ultimate escape from the “narrow space” aka Egypt. Probably the majority of folks here know that story from your family Seders, the Prince of Egypt movie, or Rugrats passover.

Joseph brings the Hebrews to Egypt 

The Jews are enslaved; Pharaoh orders their first born male babies drowned 

Yocheved floats baby Moses down the Nile, where he’s found by Pharaoh’s daughter 

Moses grows up as Egyptian royalty, until he kills an Egyptian overseer 

Moses runs away to Midian, where he marries Tzipporah 

Wandering as a shepherd, Moses hears G-d in a burning bush 

Moses demands the Hebrews’ freedom, but G-d hardens Pharaoh’s heart 

Plagues 

The Angel of Death takes the Egyptians’ first-born male children 

Pharaoh lets the Hebrews go, and they rush to freedom 

Pharaoh changes his mind and sends his armies in pursuit 

The Red Sea splits, then closes — drowning many, many Egyptians

But for all we know, most of this story comes from wild imaginations. It does not describe actual events. What we do take from this story, is a legend portraying real human heroism and civil disobedience. It reminds us that like the midwives Shifra and Pu’ah, who refused to drown Jewish children when they were born, going against Pharaoh’s orders, people are capable of performing Torah-worthy deeds when inspired by compassion and consideration. It is these actions that have the ability to rock the boat (or world) and move us all out from narrow places.

As we move through the story of Passover, we may reflect on the many narrow spaces in our own lives currently; from the limited confines of a small apartment, to the reality of losing one’s job and healthcare, and to the daily anxieties of living in a time of plague. 

Additionally, we remember the communities of color, healthcare and grocery service workers, and others who are profoundly affected by COVID-19. We recognize the heroism of these folks who risk their own survival to help others, like Pharaoh's daughter who took in Moses.


haggadah Section: Maggid - Beginning
Source: The Red Seder