Haggadah Illuminated

9781589804951

1589804953

Beautiful illuminations highlight an ancient tradition. The Haggadah is the scripture that tells the story of the Israelites and their exodus from slavery in Egypt. This text is an important part of the traditional Passover Seder table and is accompanied by richly colored ornamentation on every page. During the ceremonial Seder, a special meal is prepared and the Haggadah is retold as the holiday is celebrated. The first telling begins with four questions from the youngest child, which the reading answers. The second telling begins with questions asked by "the four sons," who are characterized as wise, simple, evil, and too young to ask. The third telling explores the meaning of the verses in Exodus and refers to the life of Moses and his demand that Pharaoh free the Jewish slaves. The fourth and final telling refers to questions about the Seder and their answers, allowing each person to feel as though he or she has just been liberated from slavery.