All of the Yomim Tovim / Jewish Holidays are a time to rejoice. Pesach, however, is a little different. The Rambam (Maimonides) points out that each of us as individuals, have experienced the physical & emotional redeeming from our bondage in Egypt. It is a miracle which we, as individuals, experienced, and show our appreciation (similar to one who has been through a miraculous recovery after having survived an accident or major operation) by demonstrating our freedom during each Seder of Pesach. There are many different signs of freedom, including reclining whilst we eat and showing through some of the customs which we follow, that we are a free nation. Besides appreciating the fact that we escaped from Egypt, it is also a time to reflect on our own miracles which we experience daily.
Opportunity for our children
Leading up to Pesach, it is a great opportunity to have our children involved in the cleaning and the preparation for the Seder.This creates an interest for them. Let us remember that the main theme of the Seder is for the children to ask questions and to be involved in the discussions pertaining to the Exodus of Egypt and the miracles that occurred. Encouraging the children to partake in the various preparations, they then feel part of this beautiful Chag (Festival) and joining the Seder, they are involved from the very outset. The memories of the Seder stays with children for the rest of their lives. It is a period of getting together, spending a few hours of meaningful conversation based on Torah, and discussions of what our nation is all about and how our nation came to be. This is especially true in the current world climate, where our adherence to Judaism and its laws is constantly threatened.
No Chametz!
Over Pesach, we may not consume any Chametz-unleavened bread products at all and our posessions, living quarters, must be completely free from any products based on Chametz, which may not be consumed over Pesach. Chametz includes leaven food, drinks and ingredients which are made from or contain wheat, rye, barley, oats or
spelt. All grain products such as bread, cereals, breakfast foods, grains, alcohol, grain vinegar, and grain malts are therefore forbidden during Pesach.
Preparing for Pesach:
In olden times, cleaning was extremely hard work. Tables were made of raw wood, many had to be sanded and scrubbed, to ensure that no food was left in the cracks. Wooden floors were not like they make them today and had to be thoroughly cleaned and scrubbed. Cleaning ladies were not in great supply. Today, we are living in a world of plenty. Houses have largeamounts of furniture, utensils and clothing. However, prior to Pesach, the housewife finds herself extremely busy ensuring that everything is cleaned, scrubbed and
perfectly cleaned in honor of this great Holiday. However, unlike years gone by, the housewife feels the need to clean and scrub just as in olden times, even though the wood of the furniture is finished, the floors are acrylic, or marble-tiled making such detailed cleaning, perhaps unnecessary.
There is no reason for housewives to feel pressured, resulting in them being stressed and not enjoying Pesach as they should. This is a Yom Tov that should be enjoyed like any other. It should be anticipated with joy and all those in the family should feel relaxed and alert at the Seder table in order to carry out the fulfillment of the Torah and the rabbinic obligations by following the Hagaddah with the rest of the family. This year, Pesach commences on Monday Evening, April 22nd 2024.
