The salt water on our table traditionally represents the tears of slaves. Dipping food in salt water is a symbol of freedom, for in ancient times only the wealthy had condiments in which to dip their food, while slaves did not. The green vegetable we dip in the water suggests the possibility of growth and renewal even in the midst of a narrow place. Parsley also grows from the Earth, which in Hebrew is Adamah. The Hebrew word for human is Adam. As we praise God for the fruit of the Adamah, we remember that we, too, are reliant on the Earth to live.

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ, אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, בּוֹרֵא פְּרִי הָאֲדָמָה

Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech HaOlam, Borei P'ri Ha-Adamah.

Blessed are You, Ruler of the Universe, who creates the fruit of the earth.


haggadah Section: Karpas