Passover, also called Pesach, is a major Jewish holiday that celebrates the exodus of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, and the “passing over” of the forces of destruction, or the sparing of the firstborn of the Israelites. It occurs on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, the first month of Aviv, or spring. That’s tonight.
Seder customs include telling the story, discussing the story, drinking four cups of wine, eating matzo, partaking of symbolic foods placed on the Passover Seder plate, and reclining in celebration of freedom. The Seder is the most commonly celebrated Jewish ritual, performed by Jews all over the world.
Having missed out on much of the formal religious training many in my family received, I have fashioned my own rituals to celebrate our people’s freedom from bondage. Tonight my Seder plate will include traditional shrimp salad with seasoned croutons, a corned beef and Swiss on rye with a big glass of cold milk.
(Inside joke for my Lonsmen)
But that’s just me. For my friends and family gathering tonight to celebrate this joyous occasion I wish you a Gut Yontiff or Chag Sameach. And for those who didn’t Google “Traditional Passover Greetings” to give the impression they know what they are talking about: “Happy Passover!”