In many faith traditions, water is associated with purification and rebirth. It often marks a transition or a change in ourselves. During the seder, we use water to wash our hands not just before we eat, but earlier too. Urchatz, this first handwashing, does not include a blessing. We save that for Rachtzah, the second washing.  

So for this first handwashing, instead of a blessing or singing happy birthday, use these 20 seconds to meditate. What are the transitions happening in your life right now? What are you cleansing from yourself? How do you want to be reborn?


haggadah Section: Urchatz