(edited from Jessica Tanenhaus)

On normal festival or Shabbat nights, we do Kiddush over a single cup of wine. At the Passover Seder, we drink four cups of wine. People have come up with many reasons for this difference.

Four Empires

Some argue that the four cups symbolize the four empires that oppressed the Jewish people in ancient times. We remember these four empires because all types of tyranny must pass away before the world is free. [attributed to Rabbi Eugene Horowitz]

Four Corners

The four cups can also represent the four corners of the earth. If freedom is limited to just one spot, or just your home, then true freedom has not been realized. Freedom must reign everywhere.

Four Seasons

The four cups can also stand for the four seasons of the year. We cannot simply speak of and think about freedom today, or when it is threatened. Freedom must be in our minds and guarded at all times.

Four Promises

יְיָ promised the Jews in Exodus:

  1. I will free you from the labor of the Egyptians
  2. And deliver you from their bondage.
  3. I will redeem you with an outstretched arm
  4. And I will take you to be my people, and I will be your G-d.

Passover is a celebration of the fulfillment of these promises. It is also a reminder that freedom is our responsibility, not just in the past and for ourselves, but for all people, in all places, and for all time.

Four Matriarchs

The four matriarchs are Judaism are Sarah, Rebecca, Leah, and Rachel. However, the idea that the four cups represent these women is most likely a relatively new interpretation.

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Whatever the reason, as we bless each of the four cups, I encourage everyone to say the blessing and to sanctify the cup with a different intention. Use each Kiddush as an opportunity to process what we have discussed so far in the Seder.


haggadah Section: Kadesh
Source: Tanenhaus Haggadah