After the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 C.E. the practice of Pesach changed. Sacrifices and festival offerings were replaced with symbolic elements.

The ceremonial matzot are now uncovered so they remain in view as a symbol of the story of Exodus.

What is the slavery from which Israel escaped? The Talmud presents two views. The rabbinic sage Samuel argues that the escape is from physical slavery. The rabbinic sage Rav believes that it was idolatry and spritual degradation that we escaped. It is hardly accidental that the Haggadah here gives both answers. There can never be complete spiritual freedom without physical freedom, and we cannot maintain physical freedom without spiritual discipline and clarity of mind. Thus we have not fully gone forth from Egypt when we have attained freedom. Our journey is complete only when we have a community that reinforces our ability to pursue justice and that acts out of concern for what has ultimate importance.

—David Teutsch (edited)


haggadah Section: -- Exodus Story