The Seder’s Call – An Introduction

Each year, as we gather around the Seder table, we follow a structure that has remained remarkably
consistent for generations. The Haggadah guides us through familiar rituals, songs, and stories, anchoring
us in tradition. And yet, no two seders are ever truly the same. The world changes, we change, and each year we bring new questions, experiences, and insights that shape our engagement with the story of Yetziat Mitzrayim—the Exodus from Egypt.

I am delighted to share JTS’s 5785 Passover supplement, part of our ongoing series of holiday readers. This year, we invited contributors—including JTS faculty, administration, alumni, and students—to share their thoughts, concerns, and personal reflections to enrich your holiday experience. As we gather around the seder table, we retell our foundational story of redemption, finding new meaning in its timeless themes. In these pages, you’ll find poignant reflections and inspiring interpretations that invite deeper intellectual and spiritual engagement.

To help integrate these elements into your seder, we’ve suggested various ways to use this material throughout the evening. You might highlight specific excerpts to spark questions or bring discussion prompts, commentaries, and readings directly to the table to invite thought-provoking conversations.

May this guide help you find new meaning in the enduring words of the Haggadah and inspire conversations that connect past and present, tradition and renewal—and that point us to a more hopeful future.

I am immensely thankful to Shelly and Larry Gross, who have generously supported this initiative, enabling us to share this supplement with you.

Hag Sameah,

Dr. Shuly Rubin Schwartz
Chancellor