Four Sons, Questions, and True Freedom
In a few days, we will celebrate the holiday of Passover, Pesach in Hebrew. The Pesach seder not only reminds us of our liberation from Egyptian slavery; it empowers us to appreciate and strive for both physical and spiritual freedom.
Hello, I’m Rabbi Bentzion Kravitz, founder of Jews for Judaism, speaking from Jerusalem.
At the Seder table, the bitter herbs and salt water evoke the bitterness of slavery, while the Matzah recalls both the bread of affliction and the bread of freedom.
Throughout the Haggadah, the number four is deeply significant. There are four expressions of redemption, four cups of wine, four questions, and the well-known four sons.
There is a profound insight hidden within the names of the Four Sons: the Wise (Chacham), the Wicked (Rasha), the Simple (Tam), and the One Who Does Not Know How To Ask (V’She’eino Yodea Lish’ol). The first Hebrew letter of each name—Chet, Resh, Vav, and Tav—combine to spell the word Cherut, which means “Freedom”.
True freedom is defined by the ability to ask questions, something salves are denied. Therefore, we must encourage all children, regardless of their background or situation, to ask questions and to understand that asking questions is a sign of strength, not a sign of weakness.
Today, our children face unprecedented challenges on college campuses and across social media. The most vital advice we can provide them is this: Take your time, ask questions, and “fact check” any argument presented to you.
This is the essence of Jews for Judaism’s mission. We empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions, ensuring they are never intimidated by charismatic or aggressive opponents.
This Passover, as we celebrate our redemption from Egyptian slavery, please consider a pre-holiday gift to support our vital work. Donate now at JewsforJudaism.org because your generosity helps our youth by providing them with answers that lead to true freedom.
I wish you a kosher and joyful Passover,
Rabbi Bentzion Kravitz
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