Breaking the matzah | yachatz | יַחַץ

On Shabbat and holidays, we traditionally have two loaves of bread, a symbol of the double portion of "manna from heaven." On Passover, we have matzah on the table. This is the bread of affliction which our ancestors ate in the land of Egypt.

There are three pieces of matzah on the table. We now take the middle of the three matzot and break it in two. The larger of these pieces, the afikomen, is wrapped in a napkin. This piece is then hidden, and the guests must find it before the meal can be ended.

The host uncovers and holds up the three pieces of matzah and says:

This is the bread of poverty which our ancestors ate in the land of Egypt. All who are hungry, come and eat; all who are needy, come and celebrate Passover with us. Let's work towards a time when all who are hungry will eat as free people.


haggadah Section: Yachatz