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The Seder Plate

We place a Seder Plate at our table as a reminder to discuss certain aspects of the Passover story. 

Matzah

Matzah is the unleavened bread we eat to remember that when the Jews fled Egypt, they didn’t even have time to let the dough rise on their bread. We commemorate this by removing all bread and bread products from our home during Passover.

Elijah’s Cup

The fifth ceremonial cup of wine poured during the Seder. It is left untouched in honor of Elijah. During the Seder dinner, the door is briefly opened to welcome Elijah.  In my family, that is when a cousin jumps out and scares the little kids opening the door while the adults drink the wine left for Elijah - and convince the already terrified kids that Elijah drank it.  If Elijah does show up at your seder, remember to keep him 6 ft away.  It's unclear how many houses he's been to.

Miriam’s Cup

To honor Moses' sister, Miriam, a cup filled with water and placed next to Elijah’s cup. Legend says that a well of water followed Miriam.  The tradition of Miriam’s cup is meant to honor Miriam’s role in the story of the Jewish people and the spirit of all women.


haggadah Section: Introduction