[Begin taking turns reading. Each person is invited to read a grouped set of lines - or to pass.]

It is said, there is nothing new under the sun, yet nothing remains the same. Against the backdrop of eternity the earth displays an ever-changing countenance. The sun rises and the sun sets, yet each day and each season is fresh and new.

Slowly, one season emerges from another. The harshness of ice and snow yields to gentle, nourishing showers. Inevitably, the cold, dark days succumb to the warmth and light of Spring. We rejoice in the warm light and rich blessings of this season.

The celebration of Passover represents the perennial rebirth and survival of the Jewish people and the world of nature. The light of these candles symbolizes a renewal of life, a reaffirmation of freedom. 

Leader:

N'-varekh `et ha-`or ka-`asher niqqavets b'-tsavta` l'-hadliqnerotshelyomtov. B'-`or ha-herut n'-varekh`et ha-haiyim.

Everyone:

Let us bless the light as we gather together to kindle the festival candles. With the light of liberation let us bless life.

[The candles are lit.] 


haggadah Section: Introduction
Source: Machar