Leader:   While the Jews endured harsh slavery in Egypt, God chose Moses to lead them out to freedom.  Moses encourntered God at the burning bush and listened as God commisssioned him to go to Pharaoh.  Fearful and reluctant, still Moses agreed to bring God's message to the king of Ehypt, "Let My people go!"  He demanded that Pharaoh let the Jewish people go, but God Himself warned Moses of the resistance Moses woul encourter.   

All:  "I know tht the king of Egypt will not let you leave unless he is forced to do so.  But I will reach out my hand and strike Egypt with all my wonders that I will do there.  After that, he wil let you go."  Exodus 3:19-20

Leader:  God sent plagues, one by one, yet with each plague, Pharaoh hardened his heart.  With the tenth and most awful plague, God pierced through the hardness of Pharaoh's impenetrable heart.  

All:  "For that night, I will pass through the land of Egypt and kill all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both men and animals; and I wll execute judgement against all the gods of Egypt; I am Adonai" Exodus 12:12  

Leader:  Let us fill our cups a second time.  A full cup is a symbol of joy and indeed on this occasion we are filled with joy at God's mighty deliverance. But let us also remember the great cost at which redemption was purchased.  Lives were sacrificed to bring about the release of God's people from the slavery of Egypt.  

It is our tradition as we recount each plague, to dip a litte finger into the cup, allowing a drop of liquid to fall, reducint the fullness of our cup of joy this night.  

All:  

                       BLOOD!        FROGS!          LICE!            BEASTS!              CATTLE DISEASE!  

                                       BOILS!              HAIL!                 LOCUSTS!              DARKNESS!

                                                                 DEATH OF THE FIRST BORN!

Following the slaying of the first born, Pharaoh allowed the Jewish people to leave.  The Jews left Egypt in such haste that their dough did not rise, so they ate matzah.  When pharaoh changed his mind and chased after the Israelites, God miraculously caused the Red Sea to split, allowing the Israelites to cross safely.  When the Egyptians entered the Sea, it returned to is natural state and the mighty Egyptian army drowned.  

            


haggadah Section: -- Exodus Story