In Hebrew, urchatz means "washing" or "cleansing." The ritual hand washing is to be a moment of calm and openness, to let our guards down before beginning to celebrate the holiday.  

In Aramaic, sister language to Hebrew, urchatz means "trusting." Instead of washing hands, we'll enjoy an act of trust by taking a moment to shake hands, hold hands, high five, or wish a chag sameach  ("happy holiday") to the people next to you. 


haggadah Section: Urchatz
Source: Adapted From Interfaith Haggadah