[First ask children to identify the items on the seder plate, then share:]

Maror and chazeret are bitter herbs, symbolizing the harshness of the slavery, which the Jews endured in Egypt.

Charoset represents the mortar used by the slaves to build the storehouses of Egypt.

Karpas, often parsley, celery or boiled potato, is dipped in salt water, which represents tears and mirrors the pain felt by the slaves in Egypt.

Z'roa, a roasted shankbone or beet, represents the Pesach sacrifice.

Beitzah, a roasted egg, is both a symbol of mourning and sacrifice and a symbol of new life in spring.


haggadah Section: Introduction