Passover
Passover is one of Judaism’s most beloved holidays—a time when homes fill with the smells of matzah ball soup, tables are set with symbolic foods, and families gather to tell a story that has shaped Jewish identity for thousands of years.
In Reform Judaism, Passover is both deeply traditional and beautifully adaptable. Whether it’s singing around the seder table, searching for the afikomen, or sharing a meal with loved ones, Passover reminds us that storytelling, learning, and joy are at the heart of Jewish life.
The Passover Story
At the center of Passover is one of the most powerful stories in Jewish tradition: the Exodus from Egypt. According to the Torah, the Israelites were enslaved by Pharaoh until Moses led them toward freedom after God sent a series of plagues upon Egypt.
When Pharaoh finally allowed the Israelites to leave, they departed so quickly that their bread had no time to rise—giving us matzah, the unleavened bread that becomes a central symbol of the holiday.
Each year at the seder, we don’t just read the story—we relive it. Jewish tradition encourages every generation to imagine that we ourselves went out of Egypt. In other words, Passover invites us to step into the story and experience the journey from hardship to freedom.
The Seder
The Four Questions
Early in the seder, the youngest person at the table traditionally asks the Four Questions, beginning with: “Why is this night different from all other nights?” These questions open the door to telling the story of the Exodus.
Four Cups of Wine
Throughout the seder, participants drink four cups of wine or grape juice, each representing a different promise of freedom described in the Torah.
The Afikomen
One of the most exciting moments for children is the search for the afikomen. Early in the seder, a piece of matzah is hidden away—and later the kids search for it, often negotiating a playful reward when it’s found!
The Seder Plate
The seder plate holds foods that help us tell the story through taste and symbol:
Matzah – the bread of affliction and freedom
Maror (bitter herbs) – reminding us of the bitterness of slavery
Charoset – a sweet mixture symbolizing the mortar used by enslaved Israelites
Egg and Greens – symbols of renewal and spring
Shank bone – recalling the ancient Passover sacrifice
Haggadah Resources
The Haggadah is the book that guides us through the seder. It contains the story of the Exodus, blessings, songs, and instructions for the rituals of the evening.
One of the beautiful things about Passover is that there are many different Haggadot, each offering unique perspectives and creative additions to the traditional text.
Below are some helpful resources:
“Haggadah to Enliven Your Seder”
“11 Helpful Passover Seder Resources”
Recipes & Food Traditions
Food is one of the most joyful parts of Passover. Because the Israelites left Egypt in such haste, leavened bread is avoided during the holiday, and matzah becomes a staple ingredient.
Passover meals are often filled with comforting and celebratory dishes such as: Matzo Ball Soup • Charoset • Brisket • Roasted Chicken • Matzo Brei • Flourless Dessert • Macaroons • Gefilte Fish
Videos for All Ages
Looking for a fun way to prepare for the holiday? Videos can be a great way for both kids and adults to explore the meaning of Passover.
Freedom Remembered & Renewed
Passover reminds us that freedom is not just something that happened long ago—it is a value we continue to pursue in every generation. Around the seder table we remember where we came from, celebrate the strength of community, and recommit ourselves to building a more compassionate world.
Sources & Further Reading
Jewish Connection Network. “Your Passover, Your Way.”
My Jewish Learning. “The Hidden Matzah”
My Jewish Learning. “Passover 101.”
YouTube. “Four Cocktails to Enjoy for Passover.”
Union for Reform Judaism. “Passover Videos.”
Union for Reform Judaism. “18 Not-Just-Matzah Recipes for Passover.”
Union for Reform Judaism. “What Goes on the Seder Plate?”
Union for Reform Judaism. “Passover.”
Union for Reform Judaism. “Prepping for Passover.”
Union for Reform Judaism. “The Four Questions.”
Union for Reform Judaism. “Passover Social Action Guide.”
How-To with Beth Tikvah
Each month, Beth Tikvah releases a monthly feature meant to help you explore different aspects of Jewish life. From celebrating holidays and hosting Shabbat Dinners, to navigating life’s milestones and moments of loss, this series will help deepen your understanding of Jewish practice in a Reform context. Our goal is simple: to make Jewish living accessible, meaningful, and relevant for everyone in our Beth Tikvah community. Whether you’re learning something new or rediscovering an old tradition, “How-To” offers practical guidance with a Beth Tikvah touch!
Writing and research by Hannah Karr
Director of Marketing & Community Engagement at Beth Tikvah
March 18, 2026