Ritually wash hands without reciting the blessing. The need for hand washing before eating vegetables is no longer a ritual requirement, however, it is included here in the traditional Seder.

Water is refreshing and cleansing.  It symbolizes purification.  We will wash our hands twice during our seder: now, with no blessing, to get us ready for the rituals to come; and then again later, we’ll wash again with a blessing, preparing us for the meal.

Pour water on each of your hands three times, alternating between your hands.

Slaves are forced to eat quickly, not having time to wash nor reflect. Tonight, we are free.  Take a minute to wash your hands now - done without a blessing - and silently reflect on any expectations you have for the evening.

It was an ancient custom in the East, especially among Jews, to wash the hands before eating.  I will wash my hands now for all of us.

"Why do we wash our hands at this point in this Seder?" the Talmud asks. "Because it is an unusual activity which prompts the children to ask questions." The very name Haggadah means "telling," for the goal of the Seder is to arouse curious questions, and provide satisfying answers.


haggadah Section: Urchatz