We dip a sprig of vegetable representing spring and renewal into saltwater representing our tears. As we dip, we encounter the paradox and complexity of life and the liberation from work. Freedom is so wrapped up with unfreedom.  Like the lotus flower that grows up from the muck; redemption comes from the crying out.

Before we eat it, we recite a short blessing:

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.

"As we dip these vegetables, the karpas, into saltwater, a symbol of the tears of slavery, we remember all those who still suffer under the yoke of oppression. May we open our eyes, our hearts, and our hands, and help to remove suffering and want from our world." Achvat Amim Haggadah 2018

We look forward to spring and the reawakening of flowers and greenery. They haven’t been lost, just buried beneath the snow, getting ready for reappearance just when we most needed them. We all have aspects of ourselves that sometimes get buried under the stresses of our busy lives. What has this winter taught us? What elements of our own lives do we hope to revive this spring?


haggadah Section: Karpas