Urchatz

There are two points during the Seder when we wash our hands. This first
washing is a symbolic and ritual washing, done by one person and with no
blessing; later, we will all wash our hands and say a blessing as we prepare
for the meal. So why do we wash our hands symbolically now, if we will wash
them again before we eat?
It is Jewish tradition to wash our hands and say a blessing before we eat, so
that our hands are physically clean when we begin our meal. This washing,
however, is symbolic: because water is seen as refreshing and purifying, it is
an opportunity to cleanse ourselves spiritually before we continue with our
seder. This year, our handwashing holds even greater meaning because of
the state of current events. We wash our hands to symbolically and
physically cleanse ourselves, to protect others, and to display radical
empathy.
Before we continue with our seder, share one thing in the Jamboard that
you wish to leave behind as we enter Passover, so you may be fully present
as we enter the holiday.


haggadah Section: Urchatz