With this first cup we begin the age old pilgrimage from slavery to freedom.  It is the first of four cups of wine, each symbolizing a promise of redemption.  These four traditionally refer to our ancient history, yet on Passover there is also a fifth cup -- Elijah's Cup -- a cup we do not yet drink.  Elijah's cup points to the future the reception we join together to bring.  As we recite this first  Kiddush  and think of our past, may we also dedicate ourselves to continue our pilgrimage until all are free.


haggadah Section: Kadesh