Contributed By Machar Congregation

We have come together this evening for many reasons. We are here because Spring is all around, the Earth is reborn, and it is a good time to celebrate with family and friends. We are here to celebrate the Jewish people's valuable old memories and stories.

We are here to remember the old story of the liberation of the ancient Hebrews from slavery in Egypt - a great struggle for freedom and dignity. We are here because the struggle for human freedom never stops. We are here to remember all people - Jews and non-Jews - who are still struggling for their freedom.

As we feel how wonderful and important it is for diverse peoples to come together, let us recite and then sing the words of HINNEH MAH TOV. Let us feel gratitude for this wonderful moment of coming together.

HINNEH, MAH TOV -  (Adaptation* of T'hillim / Psalms 133.1)     

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is when peoples dwell together in unity!

Hinneh, mah tov u-mah naim shevet ammim* gam yahad! 

(*originally "brothers", or "achim")


haggadah Section: Introduction