Passover Guide 12,13,14,15-22 Nissan, 5768 April 17,18,19,20-27, 2008

Transcription

1 Passover Guide 12,13,14,15-22 Nissan, 5768 April 17,18,19,20-27, 2008 Chabad Jewish Center How to passover the soulful meaning, how to seder, history, customs, blessings, schedules & how to celebrate.

2 Celebration! Passover Guide Table of Contents 3 The Rebbe s Message 3 Passover Checklist 4 In The Beginning 5 The Seder 7 The 15 Steps of the Seder 10 Passover Instructions & Customs 12 Story: T-Y-L-E-R, TEXAS 15 Why is This Night Different? 16 Purim Photo Album 18 Passover Blessings & Schedule 19 Sale of Chometz Certificate Celebration! Vol. 7, Issue 4 is presented to you by Chabad Jewish Center Rabbi Sholom Ber Tenenbaum, Director Mrs. Feigel Tenenbaum, Program Director If you have any questions, thoughts or comments concerning this publication, please contact us: Phone: info@chabadofgurnee.com P.O. Box 208, Gurnee, IL Dear Friends, Every year, as Passover approaches, we are filled with excitement. We look forward to the Seder experience, the family gathering and to a renewal of our personal and communal freedom. At the Seder, we extend an invitation to all those who are hungry to come and eat and all who are in need of a place to observe the Seder come celebrate with us. Indeed, for the first time, Chabad will be hosting communal Seders in Gurnee. There is also a tradition of giving Maot Chittim, literally translated as wheat money within the 30 days before Passover. These are funds given as charity to needy members of the community to provide for their Passover expenses. At this season of our freedom I would like to ask you for your support to help us help our community celebrate Passover with traditional hand baked Shmurah Matzah, Seders and social and educational resources. On behalf of the hundreds of lives that are touched and enriched by the work of Chabad, I thank you in advance for your generous contribution. With warmest wishes for a happy and Kosher Passover. Sincerely, Rabbi Sholom Tenenbaum Director, Chabad Jewish Center of Gurnee 2

3 The Rebbe s Message The Meaning of True Freedom Time is a tyrant. It plants a One Way Only sign on the road of life, another dictating No Stopping, No Standing, and mercilessly enforces both rules without equivocation. It wrenches us away from our past and holds off our future behind a wall of ignorance, making compost of our most treasured moments and a mockery of our predictions. We might overthrow political dictators, cure diseases, overcome poverty; but if we want to be free, we must conquer time. For of what use would it all be, if we remain imprisoned within a sliver of present, sliced so thin that anything we have and everything we are already was or hasn t yet been? That is why Passover, the festival of freedom, is predicated upon the power of remembering. Memory is our answer to the tyranny of time. Reclining at the seder, eating the matzah and the marror and drinking the cups of wine, we ingest history into our very flesh and blood, tasting and becoming the bitterness of our slavery, the triumph of our Exodus, the faith that carried us from Egypt, and the commitment we entered into at Sinai. Time s bounds fall away that night; the past becomes current, history becomes now. But if only the roadblock to the past were lifted, ours would be only a partial victory. If time surrendered only one of its frontiers on Passover, but maintained its blockade of the future, we d be only be a half-free people, masters of our past but prisoners of the unknowable to-come. That is why Passover has two parts. The first days with its seders and its reliving of history, and the final days with its messianic themes days that herald the divine goodness and perfection which, the prophets promise us, is the end-goal of creation and the fulfillment of our present-day lives. There is even a Chassidic custom, instituted by the Baal Shem Tov and further developed by the Rebbes of Chabad, to conduct a mirror-seder in the closing hours of the last day of Passover, complete with the Chassidic masters, when time relinquishes its last hold upon our lives; when the future, too, can be remembered, and the Era of Moshiach tasted and digested as the Exodus is on the seder night. Adapted from the teachings of the Rebbe, OBM By Yanki Tauber Pre-Passover Checklist Kosher for Passover food & supplies Storing Chometz (see page 10) Sell Chometz (Please see page 10 for instructions and page 19 for a certificate of sale of Chometz) B dikas (search for) Chometz set Other preparations (listed on page 10-12) To obtain any of these or any other Passover needs go to and visit our store today. Seder CHECKLIST Kosher for Passover wine Special Shmurah matzah Kosher for Passover matzah Shankbone or chicken neck Hardboiled egg Salt water Horseradish or lettuce Apple and nuts and make charoses Onion or cooked potato Haggadah Kiddush Cup Ritual washing cup Special Passover presentation at 3

4 In the Beginning... Each year at Passover ( Pesach in Hebrew) we recount the humble, majestic birth of the Jewish nation. Forged out of the harshest slavery, we were redeemed from corrupt Ancient Egypt through G-d s open miracles. In powerful Egypt, the Jews prospered until forced by their jealous hosts into slavery. Egyptian barbarism increased, until Pharaoh decreed that every male child born be drowned. One child was saved, Moshe (Moses), and emerged as the agent of our redemption bringing the Divine call to worship, promising freedom. Pharaoh s stubbornness incited ten miraculous plagues to impress G-d s omnipotence on the idolatrous Egyptians. Finally, He smote their first-born, Passing over the Jewish homes. The Jews marched out, only to be trapped by the Egyptians at the Red Sea; but G-d parted its waters and we passed into freedom. Ever since, we celebrate our day of liberation. On Pesach we celebrate the liberation of the Jewish people from Egyptian slavery, and together with it the liberation from and negation of the ancient Egyptian system and way of life. But this is not just an epic tale: Passover is the Time of our Freedom and in every generation, the Passover season brings with it a new liberation. We celebrate our physical liberation together with our spiritual freedom. The Torah Laws and traditional customs concerning Pesach, besides being G-dly laws, help us experience this Pesach spirit of freedom. Its highlight is the Seder, with colorful, tasty symbolism Matzah, Four Cups of Wine, Bitter Herbs, Charoset that brings to life the power and wonder of the Exodus, as we discover anew the freedom that is ours to bring to the world. We have attempted to translate these laws and customs into today s language. We trust you will find this guide useful and enjoyable. In the customary Jewish tradition, we wish you a very happy and kosher Pesach! 4 Check out our weekly online magazine at

5 The Seder On the first two nights of Pesach, we conduct a Seder. We affirm our desire to elevate this night above all that is mundane. With it, we declare to ourselves and all who are present that this is The Season of Our Freedom. We reenact, we re-experience the exodus from Egypt, with each of us considering ourselves as we were going out of Egypt. As we proceed with the Haggadah, we follow the footsteps of our ancestors, beginning with our forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; we are with our people in Egypt, as they are cruelly oppressed and persecuted; with them as G-d sends the ten plagues to punish Pharoah and his nation; with them as they leave Egypt; and with them at the crossing of the Sea of Reeds when the hand of G-d is seen again so miraculously, as the waters split to allow the Israelites to pass and then return, thundering over the Egyptians. At the Seder we also get a taste of the future, a sense of the days to come, of the destiny of the Jewish people; and we praise the Al-mighty and pray for the forthcoming redemption through Moshiach, speedily in our days. fulfill the commandment of Matzahs shall you eat. The three Matzahs underneath the Seder plate represent the Jewish people themselves. Each Matzah represents a different group: Cohen, Levi, Israel. It also represents our forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Matzah is called the food of faith, for only with this unleavened food did our ancestors leave Egypt, relying faithfully on the Almighty to provide the sustenance for the whole nation: men, women and children. The matzah itself symbolizes emunah faith. For (in contrast to chometz, leavened food) the Matzah is not enriched with oil, honey, etc. It is rather, simple flour and water, and may not be allowed to rise. Similarly, the only ingredients for faith are humility and submission to G-d, which comes from the realization of our nothingness and intellectual poverty in the face of the infinite wisdom of the Creator. The Seder plate and its ingredients Seder in Hebrew means order. Everything we do tonight has a distinct and important order. The particular arrangement of the items on the Seder plate and the acts following, correspond to and represent the numerous episodes and experiences in Jewish history, as well as offering insights to the Jew today on how to be a truly free person. The following are the items included on the Seder table: Matzah On the first two nights of Pesach we are enjoined to eat matzah, bread made in 18 minutes or less from the moment flour came in contact with water before having time to rise the same hastily prepared, unleavened bread we ate when we left Egypt. During the course of the Seder, we eat no less than one ounce of matzah and Special Passover presentation at 5

6 Maror (Bitter Herbs) Bitter herbs Horseradish, Lettuce, Endives, or a mixture of them remind us of our embittered bondage in Egypt. This represents our exile that began in a pleasant manner and ended in bitter slavery. Eating Maror at the Seder endows one with the ability to transform bitterness into sweetness Charoses (Chopped Nuts with Wine) Its color is that of the mortar used to make bricks and clay when we were enslaved to Pharoah in Egypt. Charoset is a mixture of fruits and nuts. The fruits used in the mixture apples, pears and dates are symbols of the Jewish people, who are affectionately referred to in the Bible by these names. Before dipping the Maror (as follows), we add wine to symbolize the plague of blood. Three Matzahs are placed on the table, one on top of the other. On a cloth spread over them, or on the Seder Plate, the following things are placed: 1. Zeroah (Shankbone) The Zeroah is a shankbone or chicken neck representing the Paschal Lamb first sacrificed on the eve of the exodus from Egypt, and later on in the Temple. Formed in the shape of an arm, the neck also symbolizes G-d s outstretched arm in liberating our people. 2. Beitzoh (Hardboiled Egg) Commemorating the Festival Offering in the days of the Holy Temple, the egg is also a symbol of mourning. Mourners eat hard-boiled eggs at their first meal after a funeral to show that life is like a cycle. Even in this happy festival we remember that our Temple is in ruins. The egg is also similar to the Jewish People: the more we re in hot water, the tougher we become. 5. Karpas (Vegetable) Onion, parsley, or cooked potato to be used later in the Seder as an appetizer. (Its significance is explained later on.) 6. Chazeres (Romaine Lettuce) Horseradish, Lettuce, Endives, or a mixture of them is used. The Chazeres is used in the Korech sandwich. Four Cups of Wine During the course of the evening we will be treated to four cups of wine. The four cups represent the four elements of redemption we experienced during the Exodus. These four levels are alluded to in the four expressions of deliverance or freedom mentioned in the Torah in connection with our liberation from Egypt: (1) I will bring you out; (2) I will deliver you; (3) I will redeem you; (4) I will take you as my people (Ex.6:6,7). Wine is used as a symbol of joy when welcoming the Festival, the Season of our Freedom. 6 Check out our weekly online magazine at

7 The 15 Steps of the Seder... B l e s s e d a r e Yo u G d... W h o h a s g i v e n u s t h i s d ay o f t h e F e s t i v a l o f M at z o t, the SEASON OF OUR FREEDOM... The following is a brief explanation of each of the steps of the seder. This is intended to be used together with a traditional haggadah. To download or to purchase a haggadah please visit Kadesh sanctify The Seder begins. We are now reliving the actual events of 3,320 years ago. We begin our Seder as any enjoyable evening begins with a toast to Someone special. So after praising G d, drink the first of 4 glasses of wine (or grape juice) to be savored throughout the course of the Seder. The four glasses represent the four elements of redemption we experienced during the Exodus. And get ready to do some serious relaxing we recline to our left when drinking the four glasses to emphasize our freedom. It may seem strange in our modern world of La-Z- Boy recliners and couch potatoes, but in ancient days only free people were allowed to eat in this position. America is the land of the free. Why do we need a Season of Freedom? Man, no matter how free of external constraints, is a finite creature, ever subject to the limits of his own nature and character. To attain true freedom he must therefore transcend his humanity, his emotional, intellectual, even spiritual self and access his spark of G dliness, the infinite, supra-human self. Urchatz Washing Wash hands in the ritual manner (without reciting a blessing). This ritual, among other things, serves an important role: it is meant to keep your children constantly active in the Seder experience by piquing their interest Are kids that important? Well, yes. In fact, many interesting customs are scattered throughout the Seder to compel the child to ask questions. Indeed, the entire retelling is built around the concept of When your child will ask... you shall tell your child. The child is the most important participant at the Seder. Mystically, it is the child who opens our eyes to the significance of Passover. It is the child who evokes in us the realization that we, too, are children, children of G d, and are thus inherently free like the worry-free child. Tonight, we enter the mind and heart of our child within. Karpas vegetables And the Egyptians forced the children of Israel to do backbreaking labor. Tonight, we cry the tears of our ancestors. After washing our hands, we dip a raw vegetable into salt water after reciting the appropriate blessing for eating vegetables. Karpas symbolizes the crushing labor our people endured in Egypt and the salt water represents their tears of anguish and despair. Crushing labor is endless and purposeless work. In our own lives, we often find a similar predicament when work spills out from the five-day, forty-hour week to invade our every private moment and thought. Ironically, it is our own inner spark of G dliness that gives us the capacity for endless labor. This inner spark, which yearns to reveal the Divine in the material aspects of our world, often suffers from watching its own potential for endless labor for G d distort into an endless quest for material gain. So tonight, we take a break from the material and make room for the spiritual. Yachatz breaking This is the bread of affliction that our forefathers ate in the land of Egypt. The Matza is introduced. Simple and humble, this bread of affliction best tells the story of our people. The middle Matza (of the 3) is broken in two. The LARGER PIECE, designated as the Afikoman, Special Passover presentation at 7

8 is wrapped and hidden away. Both steps are important. The wrapping dramatizes the way we left Egypt with our food wrapped on our shoulders. And the hiding? That helps keep the children alert, as traditionally they search for the Afikoman and are rewarded for finding it. (We hope they don t eat it first.) The story of the Exodus is told over the SMALLER PIECE, which, like the poor man s bread, is never whole, symbolizing the bread of poverty that we ate while under Egyptian slavery. Maggid telling Telling the story to our children: We were slaves to Pharaoh in Egypt, and the L-rd, our G d, took us out from there with a strong hand and with an outstretched arm. The story of our Exodus now begins. The Seder plate is moved aside and the second glass of wine is filled. Children ask, Why is this night different from all other nights? the Four Questions. Why the dipping? Why only Matza? Why the bitter herbs? Why are we relaxing, reclined as kings? These inquiries trigger the most significant part of the Seder, Vehigadeta (you shall relate), which is fulfilled by retelling the story of the Exodus. After the story, we drink the second glass of wine, completing the first portion of the Seder. When there are no children present we must tell the story to each other even one who is alone must tell the story to himself. Rachtzah washing Now, we wash our hands before eating Matza.... Who has sanctified us with His commandments... concerning the washing of hands. We now prepare ourselves to eat Matza by washing our hands in the ritual manner. Hands washed? Now say the appropriate blessing. Washing our hands before we eat bread - is this for cleanliness? Yes, it is for cleanliness spiritual cleanliness. As the sages knew, there can be no separation between spiritual and material matters in Jewish life. This concern with the tiniest, most mundane detail of our material lives is one of the essential elements of the Jewish faith As in our personal lives, true unity and harmony can be achieved only by combining the two domains; by integrating the spiritual into the material, thereby elevating the material. Motzi blessing over bread This Matza why do we eat it? Because the dough of our ancestors did not have time to rise before the King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be He, revealed Himself to them and redeemed them... Get ready, Seder leader: technical Matza instructions to follow. While holding the Matzot the broken, middle half-matza and the two whole ones recite the appropriate blessing before eating bread: hamotzie leh-chem min haaretz. Return the bottom Matza to the Seder plate. Now, holding the remaining one and one-half Matzot, recite the appropriate blessing for the mitzvah of eating Matza: ahl ah-chilat Matza. Then eat at least one ounce of the Matzot while reclining. Matzah blessing the Matza Why do we treat Matza with such reverence? Matza connects us directly with our ancestors. This is not a mere symbol of our forefathers suffering, this strange bread, known as the bread of faith and the bread of affliction, is the exact same bread eaten when we fled from bondage in Egypt. By rejecting Chametz, leavened bread which indicates inflated egotism and arrogance, and embracing Matza, the symbol of selflessness and humility, we make the same brave choices our forefathers made when leaving Egypt. Maror bitter herbs This Maror why do we eat it? Because the Egyptians embittered the lives of our ancestors in Egypt... Take at least 3/4 ounce of bitter herbs, dip it in Charoset, shake off excess Charoset and, before eating, say the appropriate blessing: ahl ah-chilat Maror. They suffered enough. Why do we have to? Bitterness of exile is the beginning of redemption. A slave tends to develop a slave mentality he cannot become free for he has been robbed of the desire to become free. It is only when bitterness is aroused that slavery becomes intolerable. This is the beginning of freedom. Every soul has an intrinsic bond with G d that no contradiction can shake. The mind will never accept the necessity for evil and pain. But the heart and soul of the believer, unlike the mind, have the capacity to accept what they cannot understand. 8 Check out our weekly online magazine at

9 Korech sandwich In the days of our Holy Temple, Rabbi Hillel would combine the Paschal offering, Matza and Maror in a sandwich and eat them together to fulfill the instruction: They shall eat it with Matzot and bitter herbs. In keeping with the custom of Rabbi Hillel, break off two pieces of the bottom Matza totaling at least one ounce. Take at least 3/4 ounce of Maror, dip it in Charoset, shake off the excess, place the Maror between the two pieces of Matza and say, Thus did Hillel do in the time of the Holy Temple... Recline while eating. The Maror alludes to the wicked, while Matza alludes to the righteous. Hillel, known for his compassion, would instruct the righteous to maintain contact with the wicked to draw them close to Torah. In many traditions the meal begins by dipping the hardboiled egg from the Seder plate in salt water to symbolize our constant mourning for the destruction of the Holy Temple, and as an allusion to G d s desire to redeem His people. Shulchan Orech festive meal Now we can eat? Now you can eat. At the conclusion of the Passover meal, the Afikoman is returned by the children. Eat at least one ounce of this Matza. After eating this Matza, nothing else is consumed except for the two remaining glasses of wine. Partaking of Tzafun gives us the potential to refine the hidden undesirable tendencies of which we are often unaware. Tzafun hidden I just ate Matza and I m full already. Why do I have to eat Matza again? The appetite for food has its source in the soul s desire to elevate the sparks of G dliness hidden in the food s material substance. Spiritual hunger means there is something hidden that needs to be revealed, refined and elevated. Eating the Afikoman when sated implies that there is no need to reveal the hidden, because the G dly energies (which sustain the Afikoman) are openly revealed. Thus, its consumption expresses our essential relationship with G d, which transcends even our spiritual hunger. The third glass of wine is filled. Berach Grace after meal Once you ve said grace after the meal and recited the appropriate blessing before drinking wine, drink the third glass while reclining. Now fill a special goblet, the Cup of Elijah, before filling the fourth glass of wine. Then open the door to the house and recite the passage inviting the Prophet Elijah to appear, in anticipation of our imminent Redemption. In some traditions, the head of the household drinks this Cup of Elijah. In the mystical tradition, we do not drink from this Cup. What s up with a cup that you don t drink from? It is within our power to actualize all that is represented by the four cups; to overcome all that limits us, both without and within; to develop our potential for freedom and to exercise this freedom to fulfill our G dly mission. But the culminating level of our Redemption, represented by the fifth cup, will be fully realized in the imminent coming of Moshiach. Redemption transcends our human efforts. This is not a cup we can drink on our own. Hallel songs of praise The Songs of Praise are sung, and then we say the blessing and drink the fourth glass of wine. Why does G d need us to praise Him? Doesn t He know how good He is? He doesn t need it. We need it. We need to become more aware of G d s greatness. Also, when we praise G d, it opens the channels of kindness through which we receive G d s benificence for this occasion. This is mirrored in the human sphere: if you call somebody kind or smart, you bring out those qualities in him. Nirtzah accepted Having carried out the Seder properly, we experience drum roll, please acceptance by the Almighty! We wish each other the quest that our forefathers had when they toiled and labored in Egypt, when they left Egypt and when they wandered the desert: L shana Ha-baah Bi-Yerushalayim! ( Next Year in Jerusalem! ) Should I make my plane reservations now to get the best fare? Don t bother the ultimate Travel Agent is in charge. See, we re hoping Moshiach comes long before next Passover, so that next Passover will be celebrated in Jerusalem. Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi did not include the passage The order of Pesach is concluded in his Haggadah for, indeed, the Seder never concludes. Its message endures throughout the year. A Jew leaves Egypt every day by transcending his limitations and reaching higher levels of holiness. Special Passover presentation at 9

10 Approaching Freedom Things to Do: Before You Passover Begin well in advance Deadline: April 18, 2008 The Chometz-Free Zone: In the weeks prior to Passover, we clean our homes of leavened products made from five major grains (wheat, barley, rye, oats and spelt). On Passover, we will be Chometzfree for eight days; step one is to clean any place we might have handled Chometz: in the house, car, and office (desk and drawers, etc.); on our clothing and in our pockets (especially children s!); in purses, pocketbooks, attaché cases, etc. Give some serious thought about koshering your kitchen stove, microwave and sink. Ask your Rabbi how to go about it. Storing and Selling Chometz: Chometz you wish to keep (e.g., food, cosmetics, or dishes and utensils) should be stored for Passover in designated closets, cabinets, or rooms and locked, sealed or taped shut. It will be sold (and the space leased) to a non-jew before Passover, completely removing it from your legal possession. A competent rabbi performs the sale; he acts as the agent to sell the Chometz before the festival, and he buys it back for you after the holiday ends. Prepare to celebrate: Stock up on Kosher-for-Passover items. Did you know that the only Matzo that is fit to eat must be marked for Passover use? Did you know that today there are hundreds and thousands of commercially prepared foods, which are under rabbinical supervision and marked Kosher-for- Passover? Shmurah Matzah: The ideal Passover Matzah is hand-made Shmurah ( guarded ) Matzah. The wheat is carefully watched protected against contact with water from the moment of harvest to prevent any chance of fermentation. Kneaded, shaped and rolled by hand, they are baked under meticulous supervision to avoid even the slightest possibility of leaven. Eat Shmurah Matzah on each of the Seder nights. You may contact us at to buy this special Matzah. Thursday, April 17, 2008 Firstborn sons Fast: The last of the Ten Plagues visited upon the Egyptians before the Jewish people were freed was when G-d slew all firstborn males in Egypt, sparing the firstborn sons of Israel. In recognition, firstborn Jewish males over 13 fast on this day. But, since joy eclipses suffering, it is customary to waive this fast with a celebration, upon the conclusion of a Talmudic tractate. Ask your Rabbi for the time. Search for hidden chometz: The absence of Chometz is key in preparing for Passover. At nightfall, on the eve of the first day before Passover, we conduct a formal search for Chometz throughout the house while holding a lit candle to light the way. Traditionally, we also use a spoon (as a shovel), a feather (as a broom) and a paper bag to collect any Chometz found. After reciting the appropriate blessing for this mitzvah (blessing #5 on page 18), do a thorough, final once-over search of every last bit of Chometz. (Just to insure that our search will not be in vain, strategically place ten pieces of Chometz wrapped with paper around the house. Do not hide them so that they are hard to find. If you do, then you will be in trouble ) After the search, verbally nullify any Chometz that was not found (statement #6 on page 18) and place the Chometz that was found in a conspicuous spot to be burned the next morning. (Before the search, put aside the Chometz you plan to use on Friday and on Shabbat.) NOTE: Usually we search for chometz the night before Passover and burn it the next morning. This year, however, the day before Passover falls on Shabbat, which trumps our agenda. Since we are not to light a fire on Shabbat we complete the tasks associated with Passover preparations one day early (Friday, April 18) so as not to disturb the Shabbat. And since we don t cook or prepare on Shabbat, make sure that all your special Passover delicacies are prepared on Friday before Shabbat. If you did not manage to cook and prepare all that you need for the holiday, you may do so after the end of Shabbat. (See candle lighting schedule and instructions on page 18, which also apply to cooking and preparing.) Friday, April 18, 2008 Burn the chometz: This morning we safely burn all chometz found during last night s search (for time see chart on page 18). All chometz, except the chometz we intend to eat on Friday and during the first two Shabbat meals, must be burned (unless stored in the chometz closet and sold before Passover.) Note: Here are some suggestions in overcoming the special challenges posed by this years special calendar. As your house has been prepared for Passover except for the Chometz (bread/ challah) needed for the Friday night and Shabbat morning meals, after which no chometz may remain in your possession. How do you ensure that your well prepared home, tablecloths etc. do not come in contact with chometz? How do you ascertain that no chometz remains in your possession after the allowed time? All meals for Shabbos should be prepared Kosher for Passover, cooked in Passover cooking-ware, using only Kosher for Passover ingredients. Only enough Challah (Shabbat Bread) necessary for Friday night and Shabbos Morning should be left out. This Challah should be eaten very carefully in a separate area taking care that the bread should not touch Passover utensils. After finishing eating your Challah take part in the rest of the meal. Paper goods and plastic-ware are good alternatives for this Shabbos usage. 10 Check out our weekly online magazine at

11 You may also wish to use a disposable tablecloth. Any remaining bread crumbs from the meals should be flushed. Lighting Shabbat Candles: As before every Shabbat, Jewish women and girls light the candles that brighten the home and welcome these special days. Shabbat candles are lit before sunset (for time and blessing #1 see page 18). Shabbat, April 19, 2008 Shabbat Meal: Savor the last bit of chometz, because early this morning is our final chance to eat chometz for eight days (for exact time see chart on page 19). After we finish our last bite, there should be no chometz remaining. Making Nothing into a Big Deal: Now you are ready to formally declare your home a chometz-free zone. Recite the Chometz Nullification Statement (statement #7 on page 19), verbally disowning any chometz that might have been overlooked. Prepare Again to Celebrate: Now you have a whole day to look forward to the Seder. But wait; to develop our spiritual and nutritional appetite for the Seder, we abstain from eating any food found on the Seder plate today, especially Matzo. If you re a fan of bitter herbs and raw onions, apples, nuts and wine, stay out of the kitchen. The time to actually begin preparation for the Seder is after nightfall. (See candle lighting schedule on page 18.) Saturday Night, April 19, 2008 Finally the Seder: After Shabbat, at nightfall, recite the following statement Baruch hamavdil bein kodesh le chol (Blessed is He who separates between the holy and the mundane). Now you may begin to prepare the Seder table. Light the Passover candles from a pre-existing flame (for time and blessing #2 and #4, see page 18). Now it s showtime; Experience the Seder! Please note: when a Festival occurs on a Saturday night the Vatodianu Havdalah blessing is added to the Kiddush. You will find it in the Haggadah. Sunday, April 20, 2008 Pray And Feast: Today is a good day to go to Shul, followed by a festive meal for lunch. Wait with preparing for the second Seder until after nightfall. Sunday Night, April 20, 2008 Brighten Up Again: Tonight we will enjoy one more Seder. But, before we begin the second Seder, the holiday candles are lit after nightfall from a pre-existing flame. (For time and blessings #2 & #4 see page 18.) Count in Anticipation: Tonight is when we start counting the Omer, the seven-week period (49 days) that begins on Passover and ends at the festival of Shavuos, when we celebrate G-d s giving us the Torah. The Omer a measure of barley was brought to the temple in Jerusalem on the second day of Passover, as a thanksgiving offering for the new crops. (For schedule and blessing see page 18.) You would want to do that even before the Seder begins, as you may fall asleep before you have a chance to bless. The 49 days embody the 49 steps of self-improvement beginning with the departure from our personal Egypt, until our arrival at Mount Sinai, when we are ready to accept the wisdom of the Torah. Monday, April 21, 2008 Pray and Feast Again: It s time to go to Shul again and enjoy another festive meal for lunch. Monday Night, April 21, 2008 Make a Difference: Just as we make Kiddush, declaring the sanctification of the day, we re equally obliged to distinguish between the sanctified and the mundane, good and evil, light and darkness. At this time, when these qualities are so often blurred and distorted, it is of particular importance. After nightfall, we make the traditional Havdallah (distinction) service (to be found in your prayer book). Now You are in the Middle: Passover s intermediate days begin at the end of the second day of the holiday (Monday night). Between the first two and the last two days of Passover we may resume much (not all) of our regular, workday activities; but, of course, we continue to eat Kosher for Passover foods exclusively. Also, it is customary to drink a glass of wine or grape juice each day, in celebration of the festival. Friday, April 25, 2008 And On The Seventh Day: In addition to being Shabbat the Seventh Day of Passover is Yom Tov (Holiday), as is the Eighth Day of Passover, and are observed with the same laws governing (Shabbat and) all Jewish Festivals. At sundown Shabbat and Yom Tov candles are lit (for times and blessing #3 see page 18). This day commemorates our total liberation from Egypt with the Splitting of the Sea. We celebrate the holiday with a formal festival meal beginning with Kiddush. You will find it in your prayer book or the Haggadah. Get ready for an intense experience it is customary to stay up all night studying Torah. Saturday, April 26, 2008 Cross The Sea Of Reeds: If you enjoyed services at Shul on the first two days three days will constitute it permanent. Today s experience in Shul includes the Torah reading of the Splitting of the Sea of Reeds. (That s in addition to the Rabbi s sermon). Saturday Night, April 26, 2008 The Finals: After nightfall, Passover candles are lit from a pre-existing flame (for time and blessing #2 see page 18.) We celebrate the holiday with a formal festival meal beginning with Kiddush. You will find Special Passover presentation at 11

12 it in your prayer book or the Haggadah. Please note: Being Shabbat evening, the special Vatodianu havdalah blessing is added to the Kiddush. On this final day of Passover, we strive for a higher level of freedom and focus on the final redemption. Sunday, April 27, 2008 Last But Not Least: Yizkor Memorial Prayers are recited during morning services. Following the Baal Shem Tov s custom, we end Passover with Moshiach s Feast a festive meal complete with matzo and four cups of wine during which we celebrate the imminent arrival of the Messiah. The feast begins before sunset and continues until after nightfall. Nightfall is the official end of Passover (for exact time see page 19). You must wait an additional hour to give the rabbi enough time to buy back your Chometz before eating it. We have made it! Let s continue the Passover spirit of freedom throughout the year! Make a Difference Again: At nightfall (see schedule on page 19), as we depart the holiday to our day to day activities, we recite the Havdalah blessing. Havdalah invites us to carry the spirit of Shabbat and/or the holiday into our weekday life. Thus, by contrasting the sacred and the mundane the Shabbat/Holidays from the other days of the week we strive to bring some of the holiness of the Holidays into our everyday activities throughout the week. T-Y-L-E-R, TEXAS by Ari Samet Where does an American Jew go for a Shabbat meal in Odessa? To the same place he would go if he were in Shanghai to Chabad. Benjamin Sadeh, the dean of a Jewish school in Baltimore, was on a trip to the Ukraine. He was part of a delegation of veteran educators sent by the Joint to assess the condition of the local Jewish students. On Friday night they were invited to the home of Rabbi Binyamin Wolf, one of the Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries in Odessa. After the first course of delicious gefilte fish and salads, Rabbi Wolf raised his glass and mentioned that the Rebbe s birthday, the 11th of Nissan, was imminent. Rabbi Wolf spoke briefly about the Rebbe s achievements and related that in 1972, at the Rebbe s seventieth birthday celebration, the Rebbe said that instead of retiring or relaxing, as he had been advised by well-meaning friends, his intent was to establish seventy-one new institutions. Mr. Sadeh, who had been quietly listening to the rabbi s words, spoke up: You look too young to have actually been at that birthday celebration in But I was there and I remember it well. With your permission, I d like to tell a story that I have never before told. GUIDE TO THE PERPLEXED In 1965, I moved to Phoenix, Arizona to teach Hebrew and Judaism. I was perhaps the only observant Jew living in Phoenix at the time. Naturally, I came across many religious dilemmas in my teaching capacity and I sought a mentor to guide me in my efforts. The idea of reaching out to uninvolved Jews was still alien to most of the Jewish community. But I knew that the Lubavitcher Rebbe in Brooklyn initiated and led a movement dedicated to Jewish outreach. It seemed only sensible that I consult with him. And so, although I was not a Chasid, I soon found myself involved in a fascinating correspondence with the Rebbe, in which the Rebbe led me by the hand through all the dilemmas and quandaries that I encountered. My relationship with the Rebbe soon progressed to a more personal one, and I consulted with him regarding matters in my personal life. In 1972, my wife gave birth to our first son, three years after our marriage. On the day she was meant to be released from the hospital, the doctors informed us that because of certain symptoms displayed by our newborn, they would like him to stay at the hospital for a few more days for monitoring. We were of course very concerned and bom- 12 Check out our weekly online magazine at

13 barded the doctors with questions, which they answered evasively. We were now even more concerned. A few days later, the head of the department called us in and with a very serious face told us that although they were not yet absolutely sure, all symptoms seemed to indicate that our child was suffering from a terrible chronic illness. He informed us that our son would have to remain in the hospital for a long time. How long? I asked. I don t know, was his ominous reply. We were a young inexperienced couple and we felt lost. We could not think. Suddenly it occurred to me that I could ask the Rebbe for a blessing and I immediately sat down and wrote a letter to the Rebbe, which I sent by express mail to Brooklyn. Two days later I received a call from the Rebbe s secretary. Take a pen and write down what I say: The Rebbe circled the part of your letter where you describe your worries and concerns and wrote: There is no basis for any worry whatsoever. Regarding request for a blessing that your son be immediately released from the hospital, the Rebbe wrote: May it occur soon. I will mention it at the resting place of my saintly father-in-law, (the previous Rebbe). I don t have the words to describe to you how these few words breathed new life into our agonized souls. In one moment we were transformed into new people calm and relaxed. We could now think clearly, speak coherently, tasks we had been unable to do since hearing those frightful words from the doctor. Less than forty-eight hours later, my wife and I returned to our home with our son. It turns out, the doctor said, that the child is completely healthy and there is no basis for any worry whatsoever. THANK YOU My wife and I had no doubt that the Rebbe had arranged things for us and we wanted to thank the Rebbe for his blessing. Passover was approaching, but we decided not to wait. Three weeks later, I was on a plane to New York. During Shabbat, I stayed with relatives in Brighton Beach, and on Sunday, I made my way to the Rebbe s synagogue, 770 Eastern Parkway. When I got there I realized that it was the Rebbe s birthday and that the Rebbe would soon be leading a farbrengen, a Chassidic celebration in which the Rebbe would talk and join the Chassidim in song. I decided to stay for the event, which was going to start at 9:30 PM. In the meantime, I sought out the Rebbe s secretariat and requested an audience with the Rebbe. At first, they told me I could have an appointment in a few months. But when I told them that I only wished to thank the Rebbe and that I had come all the way from Arizona, they gave me an appointment. That evening I had the good fortune of attending the here s a person who truly cares about the Jewish people as a whole and each individual farbrengen. Although I had told my hosts I would be back in Brighton Beach by 10:30, I stayed until the end of the farbrengen. The atmosphere was magical and I was completely oblivious to the hands of the clock moving closer and closer to morning. I returned to Brighton Beach that night on a spiritual high. ONE ON ONE The next day I had my appointment with the Rebbe. I found out that my appointment would be two o clock AM! My turn finally arrived and I entered the Rebbe s room. The Rebbe smiled and welcomed me, made me feel right at home. I thanked the Rebbe for his blessing and reported to him the good news about our son. The Rebbe seemed very pleased and wished me to be to able to continue to provide good news in all of my material and spiritual matters. Then the Rebbe asked me, and I reported to him, about what was happening in Arizona and how the matters I had consulted him about were coming along. Our conversation lasted for some time and I thanked the Rebbe for seeing me and rose to leave. As I was about to go, the Rebbe turned to me and asked when I intended to return to Arizona. I replied that with G d s help I would be leaving the next day, before noon. He then asked me: On your way, would you be willing to perform an important task on my behalf? My spontaneous response was, Of course! The Rebbe smiled and said that if it was not too much of a bother I should please go to the office of his secretary, Rabbi Chodokov, and that he would have my instructions. As I left his office, the Rebbe said: Thank you, and may you have a kosher and joyous Pesach. When I left the Rebbe s office I must have been glowing. I was overcome with the feeling that here s a person who truly cares about the Jewish people as a whole and each individual, including myself. I walked the few feet down the hall to Rabbi Chodokov s office, he welcomed me and said: Reb Binyomin? Yes, I said, not completely sure about how he had known I was coming. Rabbi Chodokov got straight to the point. He handed me a box of matzot and said: Please bring this to Tyler. Tyler, I said, What is Tlyer? It is a city in Texas, he replied somewhat dryly. I wasn t sure what to say but I told him that I had a direct flight to Arizona and that I didn t have any stopover in Texas. I added that I didn t know where Tyler was and that I had never been there nor had I ever heard of such a place before hearing it from him! Rabbi Chodokov looked at me and said: So do you want me to inform the Rebbe that you cannot fulfill the task? No, no I ll do it, I quickly replied. I was about to leave the room when I realized that I had not been told where exactly to deliver this package in Tyler. When I asked Rabbi Chodokov about this he gave me a look Special Passover presentation at 13

14 that said, Please stop asking questions, and get on with it. I didn t bother waiting for a response and left the room. ITINERARY DILEMMA I returned to Brighton Beach at about 4:00 AM. I was so tired that I went straight to sleep without worrying about this bizarre mission that I had been entrusted with. In the morning, I looked into my flight options and found out that I did not have many. It was two days before Pesach and I didn t have a lot of time. I went to the airport and discovered that there were no flights from New York to Tyler. The agents had never heard of Tyler. I also found out that there were no flights to Arizona with a stopover in Texas and that to travel to Texas and then on a separate flight to Arizona entailed all sorts of complications. With seemingly no other option at my disposal, I decided to fly directly to Arizona and to call the Rebbe s secretary and tell him that regretfully I was unable to fulfill the mission. I got on the plane with a uneasy feeling but quickly fell asleep since I had been up late for two nights before. A few hours into the flight, I awoke from a deep sleep to the voice of the captain: Due to mechanical issues, we re going to have to land the plane in a few minutes. It s nothing serious and we should be on our way to Arizona shortly. As the plane landed, I saw the large letters painted on the terminal: WELCOME TO TYLER. My entire body began to shake. I pinched myself to see if I wasn t dreaming. Perhaps I had imagined it, which was quite possible, considering I was sleep-deprived. When I asked the flight attendant, for the third time, where exactly we were landing, she said rather impatiently, Tyler, T-Y-L-E-R. Tyler, Texas? Yes, Tyler Texas. The situation was so incredible and surreal. My mind was reeling as I followed the crowd into small terminal. I was probably the only one who took anything off the plane a box of matzot. It turned out that Tyler was a small town with a small airport that operated once or twice a week. It appeared that the airport lights had been turned on specifically for us. I asked the technicians if they knew of any Jews nearby but they just shrugged. As I was considering my dilemma, a young couple comes over to me and says: Do you have our package from the Rebbe? I should have been shocked, but at this point I was ready for anything to happen. I was wearing a kippah and I had a small beard and so I assume they were able to spot me as a religious Jew. The couple, on the other hand, wore no outward signs of being Jews. I gave them the matzot and they seemed extremely happy. They thanked me profusely and I of course had a long list of questions to ask, but before I could open my mouth they waved goodbye and disappeared into the terminal. Sadeh concluded the story and the crowd around the table just stared at him. Nobody said a word. Finally, Sadeh raised his glass once again, L chaim to all of us. L chaim to the Rebbe, and L chaim to the Rebbe s messengers, whether in Tyler or Odessa, bringing the Rebbe s love, dedication and matzot! to every corner of the globe. Passover Seders are on April 19 & 20 We look forward to celebrating together! Experience a meaningful seder with traditional songs, stories and an interactive telling of the Exodus from Egypt. Enjoy a tasty meal, handbaked shmurah matzah and a welcoming atmosphere. Celebrate the joys of Judaism and discover the spiritual and and mystical dimensions of this time. chabad jewish center of gurnee For more information call Check out our weekly online magazine at

15 Mah nishtanah halailah hazeh... Why is this night different from all other nights? our children ask us at the Passover Seder. Because, we answer, we were slaves to Pharaoh in Egypt and G-d set us free. Free? Are you free? Can a person with a mortgage be free? Can a person with a job be free? Can a person without a job be free? Freedom! Is there anything more desired yet more elusive? Is there a need more basic to our souls, yet so beyond our reach? How, indeed, do we achieve freedom from the demands, cares and burdens of daily living? But look at your child. Observe her at play, immersed in a book, asleep and smiling at her dreams. Assured that father and mother will feed him, protect him and worry about all that needs worrying about, the child is free. Free to revel in her inner self, free to grow and develop, open to the joys and possibilities of life. This is why Passover, the festival of freedom, is so much the festival of the child. For it is the child who evokes in us the realization that we, too, are children of G-d, and are thus inherently and eternally free. It is the child who opens our eyes to the ultimate significance of Passover: that in taking us out of Egypt to make us His chosen people, G-d has liberated us of all enslavement and subjugation for all time. The child is the most important participant at the Passover Seder. The entire Seder is constructed around the goal to mystify the child, to stimulate his curiosity, to compel him to ask: Why is this night different from all other nights? The child asks, and we answer. But there is another dialogue taking place a dialogue in which we ask, and the child explains. Take a good look at your child this Passover. Pay her close attention enter her mind, view reality from her perspective. For how else might we taste freedom? From Chabad.Org GOT MATZOH? Celebrate passover traditionally and in style. Beautify your seder table with hand made Kosher-for-Passover brick oven Matzoh. Experience the Passover Seder as did our forefathers at the Exodus! The ideal Passover Matzah is hand-made Shmurah ( guarded ) Matzah. The wheat is carefully watched and protected from contact with water from the moment of harvest, to prevent any chance of fermentation. Kneaded, shaped and rolled by hand, they are baked under meticulous supervision to avoid even the slightest possibility of leaven. It is preferable to eat Shmurah Matzah on each of the Seder nights. For more information or to order please call: Save the date! Lag Ba omer FAMILY PICNIC A Celebration of Jewish Unity Thursday, May 22 5:00 8:00pm Delicious BBQ with all the trimmings Incredible Inflatables Great Entertainment Special Passover presentation at 15

16 P h o to G a l l e ry Purim Party Purim Party Photos courtesy of Joe Shuman Photography 16 Check out our weekly online magazine at

17 P h o to G a l l e ry JEP Hamentashen & Mothers to Mothers

18 Candle lighting times Candle lighting blessings Blessing April 18 Eve of Shabbat 1* 7:19 April 19 Eve of Passover/ 1st Seder 2 & 4** 8:22 April 20 Eve of 2nd Day / 2nd Seder 2 & 4** 8:24 April 25 Eve of Shabbat / 7th day 3* 7:27 April 26 Eve of 8th Day of Passover 2** 8:31 * Do not light after sunset ** Do not light before the times indicated. Light only from a preexisting flame. A preexisting flame is a flame that has been burning continuously since the onset of the festival such as a pilot light, gas or candle flame. 1. ba-ruch A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HA-OLAM ASHER KID-E-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VETZI-VO-NU LE-HAD- LIK NER SHEL SHA-BBOS KO-DESH. Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat. 2. ba-ruch A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HA-OLAM ASHER KID-E-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VETZI-VO-NU LE-HAD- LIK NER SHEL YOM TOV. Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Yom Tov light. 3. ba-ruch A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HA-OLAM ASHER KID-E-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VETZI-VO-NU LE-HAD- LIK NER SHEL SHA-BBOS VE-SHEL YOM TOV. Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Shabbat and Yom Tov light. 4. ba-ruch A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HA-OLAM SHE-HECHI-YO-NU VE-KI-YE-MO-NU VE-HIGI-O-NU LIZ-MAN HA-ZEH. Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion. Passover Blessings & Schedules THURSDAY, APRIL 17, AFTER NIGHTFALL Search for Chometz Before beginning the search, the following blessing is recited: 5. BA-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HA-OLAM ASHER KID-ESHO-NU BE-MITZVO-SOV VETZI-VONU AL BE-UR CHO-METZ Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us concerning the removal of chometz. After concluding the search the following declaration is stated: 6. ALL LEAVEN AND ANYTHING LEAVENED THAT IS IN MY POSSESSION, WHICH I HAVE NEITHER SEEN NOR REMOVED, AND ABOUT WHICH I AM UNAWARE, SHALL BE CONSIDERED NULLIFIED AND OWNERLESS AS THE DUST OF THE EARTH. Friday, April 18 Burning Chometz, Selling Chometz Burn Chometz By: 11:42am Sale of Chometz: Have the Authorization Certificate reach us no later than 12 PM See Candle Lighting Times and Blessings This publication has been made possible in part through the generosity of 538 Johnson Avenue Brooklyn, NY Check out our weekly online magazine at

19 Shabbat, April 19 Eating, Disposing of Chometz Finish eating chometz before: 10:33am Dispose of chometz before: 11:41am After the Chometz is disposed of, the following declaration is stated: 7. all LEAVEN AND ANYTHING LEAVENED THAT IS IN MY POSSESSION, WHETHER I HAVE SEEN IT OR NOT, SHALL BE CONSIDERED NULLIFIED AND OWNERLESS AS THE DUST OF THE EARTH. Monday, April 21 nightfall The First days of yom Tov end. Intermediate days begin. 8:27pm Please patronize our advertisers who help make this publication possible. Mr. Abraham Rothman Your Income Statement Specialists Friday Eve, Shabbat & Sunday, APRIL Last days of Yom Tov. See Candle Lighting Times and Blessings Sunday, APRIL 27 Yizkor Yizkor is recited during morning service. Consult your synagogue for times. Passover Ends at nightfall, 8:35pm Return this form early, as responsibility cannot be accepted for forms received at Chabad after 12:00 PM, April 18, You may fax it to us at or to rabbi@chabadofgurnee.com. CERTIFICATE AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF CHOMETZ Please print neatly or type, as illegible forms cannot be processed I (We)* Hereby authorize Rabbi SholomTenenbaum to dispose of all chometz that may be in my (our) possession wherever it may be at home, at my (our) place of business, or elsewhere in accordance with the requirements of Jewish Law as incorporated in the special contract for the sale of chometz. Residence Address Apt. No.. City/State/Zip Business Address Suite No. City/State/Zip Signature(s) Date Chometz forms must be received at Chabad by April 18, 2008, 12:00 PM. * Husband and Wife, specify names. Must be signed by head of household and preferably by all parties. Special Passover presentation at 19

20 Join us for a traditional Community Passover Seder Enjoy a personal, meaningful and insightful experience! Saturday, April 19 7:45pm Sunday, April 20 7:45pm $36/adult, $25/child $360/sponsor Save the Date! Lag B Omer Family Picnic Thursday, May 22 See ad on page 15 for more information! Chabad Jewish Center of Gurnee P.O. Box 208 Gurnee, IL NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHABAD OF GURNEE Permit #66