Dayenu Cartoon, The Sentinel, March 24, 1977, NLI

This is a cartoon that was published in the March 24, 1977 edition of The Chicago Sentinel. The “Dayenu” cartoon is signed “Henry Leonard,” a pseudonym comprised of the names of its two creators, Rabbi Henry Rabin and Leonard Pritkin. The cartoon depicts a family sitting around the Seder table. The table is set for the festive Seder meal with a lit candle, filled wine glasses, and table settings. The main character is a young boy who is sitting at the table holding a Haggadah and addressing the rest of the family. The cartoon is probably referring to the tradition that the youngest member of the family recites the “Ma Nishtana,” also known as the “Four Questions.” The caption reads: “Father, wherefore is this night different from all other nights...and you may have 20 seconds in which to answer.” Judging by the expressions on their faces, it seems as if this quip was not received very well by the adults around the table.

The cartoon can be understood in several ways. While it is probably referring to the TV quiz shows that were popular at the time, it might also be lamenting the short attention span or disinterest of the younger generation, who are not interested in the long discussions that traditionally characterize the Seder. 


haggadah Section: -- Cup #2 & Dayenu
Source: National Library of Israel