THE SEDER PLATE: A CENTRAL SYMBOL

Last year at Passover, we were just entering the realities of the COVID pandemic in the United States.  Most were not able to gather in person or even obtain the tradItional items for their Passover seder plate or meal.

A year later, COVID is still with us.  However, most of us have the ability to obtain groceries and special items for holidays.  Because of the vaccine, some may even feel comfortable gathering with immediate family.  Even with the ability to resume some familiar traditions and practices, this past year has shown how creativity and the willingness to introduce creative practices can breath new life into our faith and rituals. 

Don't be scared to get creative once again.  Many of you shared how much you enjoyed incorporating new items to represent the symbols on a traditional seder plate.  Judaism survives and thrives by remembering the intent and adapting to meet our needs.  Let the meaning, symbols and your creativity inspire you!  

NEW SEDER PLATE SYMBOLS

During Passover, a celebration of freedom, many of us add other symbolic items to remind us of the numerous people who are not fully free.  These items are reminders for each of us to actively work to bring about the liberation of all people.  Consider adding and discussing some of the symbols below to your seder plate this year.

Orange: Representing members of the LGBTQ community and other marginalized groups.

Potato: Representing the exodus of Ethiopian Jews to Israel.

Banana: Representing the struggle of refugee children around the world.

Tomato: Representing the people who care for and harvest our food, often underpaid and overworked.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE AND OTHER SYMBOLS >> 

8 MODERN SYMBOLS FOR YOUR SEDER PLATE >> 

ADDITIONAL PASSOVER RESOURCES