Pikuach Nefesh (the preservation of human life) is hands-down, the most important value in Judaism. As Jews, we declare that reason, as it pertains to our well-being, presides over religious mandate. For example, we all know we're supposed to fast on Yom Kippur, but if that is a medically unwise choice for you, you don’t get points for doing it anyway. The mitzvah is to eat.

This year, as we come together as Jews the best we can during this plague, sacred handwashing takes on a new meaning.

At the Seder we have always washed symbolically for Urchatz. This year when we wash our hands, it is an act of lifesaving; it is a mitzvah.


haggadah Section: Urchatz
Source: Roberta Lipp