Tonight we drink four cups of wine. Why four? There are many explanations: Some have said they
represent:
           • The four matriarchs-Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah-whose virtue caused God to liberate us
              from slavery.
           • The four comers of the earth, for freedom must reign everywhere.
           • The four seasons of the year, for freedom must be guarded at all times.
           • The four promises of liberation God makes in the Torah:
                            o I will bring you out,
                            o I will deliver you,
                            o I will redeem you
                            o I will take you to be my people

Our story tells that in diverse ways God gave promises of freedom to us. This first cup of wine reminds us of God's first declaration: "I will bring you out from the oppression ... "


haggadah Section: Kadesh