We are told that every person should see him/herself as having personally left Egypt. How can we fulfill this obligation of radical empathy?

The Hebrew word for Egypt, Mitzrayim, literally translates to "from narrow places." It implies this image of a restrained or confined space. We might not have personal memories of enslavement in Egypt, but we all have experiences with feeling restrained or confined. We can channel those emotions to bring ourselves closer to the story. But more than that, we also must channel the mindfulness necessary to take ourselves out of these narrow places and free ourselves.

As we read the story of the exodus, I invite you to reflect on the following question: What is something holding you back now, and how might you be able to free yourself?


haggadah Section: -- Exodus Story