Pesach

[reldnahkram]

Went to relatives for Pesach with family, good times. All sorts of memorable quotes, except I forgot most of them.

"And God smushed the Egyptians" - My aunt, which, soon enough, evoked Monty Python-esque images of a giant foot stepping on Egyptians

"There's no boxing-out in looking for the Afikomen" - cousins

One of the really nice things about this year was that, between the nine of us, we had very nearly nine haggadot, possibly more. Thus for each of the parts of the seder, we commented on the interpretation presented in the haggadah in front of us, and there was much discussion of various things. There was much talk of the wandering Aramean (which I don't think I'd ever heard before, even though it seems pretty important as a starting point). 'My' haggadah, the Silverman edited one that I grew up with, commented on Ladan rising into importance as an opressor in the 3rd century BCE, with the Jews in Israel trying to cozy up to the ruling Egyptians rather than the neighboring Syrians (represented by Ladan). Among other things, we talked about why we lean to the left when eating and drinking symbolically (is it politically significant? is it practical but discriminatory against lefties (my theory)?).

I've been toying with the idea of trying to put together an informal seder for folks on campus this weekend, but I'm not sure I'll be up for the effort or decide it's really worth it. If someone else wants to organzie, I'll be happy to help.

Comments

[sildra.livejournal.com]

Having organized a seder with tirerim two years ago, I have to say, it's a lot of work. Good luck finding someone.

[gerbilicious85.livejournal.com]

i missed the ruach seder :( i really want to participate in other people's traditions. my family does polish food for easter and i'd do the same if not for debate nationals being held here. i should find a polish deli and do it the week after or something.