Telling of the Story

Passover was instituted by G-d particularly for the children, with many elements designed to pique their curiosity. There are at least 4 references to the questions asked by children about Passover and the Exodus from Egypt (Shemot/Exodus 12:26; 13:8,14; Devarim/Deuteronomy 6:20). These scriptures serve as the basis for the following questions, which provide our reason for for telling the story of deliverance. That's why the youngest child in the room who is able to say them, is invited to chant the following four questions.

Actually, these are not so much questions as observations with an opening question that makes the whole thing into one big question. We introduce the four questions by reading together...

There arose in Egypt a Pharaoh who knew not of the good deeds that Joseph had done for that country. Thus he enslaved the Jews and made their lives harsh through servitude and humiliation. This is the basis for the Passover holiday which we commemorate with these different rituals tonight.

haggadah Section: Maggid - Beginning