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There are many traditions that are associated with Passover. For many Jewish people, it is an occasion filled with joy. Traditions vary, consult many of the websites (such as www.kashrut.com/Passover) available to determine the type of ceremony that is right for you.

Traditional Passover celebrations always have a Seder Plate, which symbolizes the struggle of the Israelites as they were liberated from slavery in Egypt. As they fled, the Jews ate a simple meal of unleavened bread, called matzo and bitter herbs. Official “Seder Plates” are available to purchase at specialty stores with sections for each item, but using a nice platter of your own is perfectly acceptable.

The traditional Seder Plate consists of:

  • a roasted shank bone (Z’roa), this represents the sacrifice made on the eve of the Exodus
  • a green herb (Karpas), usually parsley, dipped in salt water, this represents the fresh growth of spring
  • a roasted or hard-boiled egg (Beitzah), this represents birth, renewal, and the ancient temple offerings
  • a bitter herb, usually horseradish but romaine lettuce can be used (Maror), this is to symbolize the bitterness of slavery
  • and a mixture of chopped apples, nuts, wine and cinnamon (Charoset), this symbolizes the mortar used by Jewish slaves to build the ancient cities of Egypt.

Use your best linens and flatware to set the Passover table. Add fresh flowers, and spring colors to set the mood.

There are several items that are a MUST for the Passover table:

  • Two tapered candles are to be set at the head of the table.
  • Every place setting should have a matzo plate, a wine glass, a Passover prayer book, matzo, charoset, a bowl of salt water, karpas and a hard-boiled or roasted egg
  • The Cup of Elijah. A place is to be set for Elijah the Prophet. He is invited during the Seder to announce the coming of the Messiah. A nice wine glass is fine for this symbolization. And, it is said, one is to leave a window open for Elijah to enter.

The food of Passover

Passover food must not contain hametz, or leavening. This includes flour, baking powder, and corn starch. Wine is key to the Passover experience as well. “Hagafen” is a popular wine for Passover, found in most fine wine shops. Other Passover wines are available as well.

Consult a book on Jewish traditions and cooking, search the Web for more information, or consult your local synagogue for more information.