A reader: Long before the struggle upward begins, there is tremor in the seed. Self-protection cracks, roots reach down and grab hold.The seed swells, and tender shoots push up toward light.This is karpas : spring awakening growth. A force so tough it can break stone.

All: And why do we dip karpas into salt water?

A reader: To remember the tears and anger of our trans mothers in activism fighting for equal rights. To taste the bitter tears of closeted youth, unable to blossom each spring and reveal their true selves. To feel the sting of society's refusal to celebrate the unlimited capacity of love in each of us, to celebrate love regardless of gender, to celebrate all healthy relationships and families. 

All: And why should salt water be touched by karpas ?

A reader: To remind us that tears stop. Spring comes. And with it the potential for change.

Modified from a piece by Ronnie M. Horn

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ, אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, בּוֹרֵא פְּרִי הָאֲדָמָה

Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, borei p’ree ha-adama.

We praise God, Ruler of Everything, who creates the fruits of the earth.


haggadah Section: Karpas