What are the symbols and order of a Passover Seder?
Kadesh – There is a total of four cups of wine which is poured and then swallowed throughout the Seder. The Kadesh is is the first cup out of the four cups of wine which is poured. After it is poured, a Kiddush blessing of sanctification is said which is to sanctify the feast. Urechatz – Washing of the hands is part of the symbolism in the Seder meal. This is the washing of the hands before handling the next step – the karpas. Karpas – This is a vegetable, usually parsley or celery, which is dipped into salt water symbolizing the tears of the Jewish people. While in slavery, the Israelites endured a life of suffering and many tears. After it is dipped in the salty water, the Karpas vegetable dipped, eaten. Yachatz – This is the middle of three matzos which is broken. There is a larger portion which is wrapped in a napkin and then hidden to be used for afikoman, or the food that comes after the meal otherwise known as dessert. Maggid – This is the second cup of wine which is to be poure
