Haggadah

1. What is a Haggadah?

The Haggadah is the book used to guide people through the story of Passover; it is used during the Passover Seder. The word Haggadah means “telling” in Hebrew since its purpose is to convey the Exodus story, as well as guide the reader through the proper steps of the seder meal.

2. What’s Inside the Haggadah?

The Haggadah contains a 15-step process to conduct the seder. [If you would like to view all 15 steps, click here.]

These 15 steps include various blessings, such as blessings over the wine and blessings over the Matzah; telling the Exodus story, such as discussing the 10 plagues and the 4 Questions—read by the youngest seder attendee; and songs about liberation, such as “Dayenu” and “Chad Gadya.”

3. Different Types of Haggadot

To appeal to all forms of Judaism, many different variations of Haggadot have been created. From Haggadot that is purely Hebrew, to ones with English translation, to even “Chocolate Seders” for children. These chocolate seders contain Haggadot completely geared toward children—even substituting the five items on the seder plate with kid-friendly food items.

The vast Haggadah options make the Passover Seder an extremely versatile celebration for all Jews—no matter their age or religious following.