The karpas, the green vegetable, is the first part of the seder that makes this night different from all other nights. So far, the first glass of wine and the hand washing, though significant, do not serve to mark any sort of difference; they are regular parts of meals. The karpas, however, is not. Dipping the karpas is a sign of luxury and freedom. The saltwater represents the tears of our ancestors in Egypt.

Brukha at Adonia eloheynu ruakh ha'olam boreit p'ri ha'adamah.
Praised be Thou, O Lord our God, King of the universe, Who created the fruit of the earth.


haggadah Section: Karpas