Insights from Reverend Hazan Benlolo

While there are commonalities in how Passover is celebrated across different Jewish communities, there are also variations in traditions and customs. Here are some differences between Moroccan, Iraqi, Lebanese, and Ashkenazi Jews during Passover:

Moroccan Jews have unique customs and rituals that add a distinctive flavor to their Passover observance. For example, they often incorporate elements of Moroccan folklore and music into their Seders, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Additionally, Moroccan Jews have specific traditions surrounding the recitation of the Haggadah, with some families following a particular order or emphasizing certain passages. Passover dishes in Moroccan Jewish cuisine reflect the rich culinary heritage of Morocco. Dishes like "sefrou" and "mufleta" are beloved staples during the holiday, showcasing the fusion of Jewish dietary laws with Moroccan flavors and ingredients. During the singing of "Dayenu" at the Seder, Moroccan Jews have a unique custom of playfully hitting each other with scallions, symbolizing the whips of the Egyptian taskmasters. This tradition adds a lighthearted and interactive element to the Seder experience, fostering a sense of communal participation and engagement.

Iraqi Jews bring elements of Iraqi culture and heritage to their Passover celebrations. This includes unique customs, music, and language that are distinct from other Jewish communities. Iraqi Jewish Passover cuisine features dishes like "kubbeh" and "tbeet," which have roots in Iraqi culinary traditions. These dishes, along with others specific to Iraqi Jewish Passover observance, contribute to a sense of cultural continuity and identity within the community. In some Iraqi Jewish communities, there is a custom of lighting torches outside the home on the first night of Passover. This tradition symbolizes the exodus from Egypt and the journey towards freedom, evoking a sense of spiritual enlightenment and renewal.

Lebanese Jews often blend Jewish traditions with elements of Lebanese culture and cuisine. Their Passover observance may reflect this syncretism, incorporating local ingredients, flavors, and customs into the holiday rituals. Passover rituals among Lebanese Jews may vary depending on factors such as geographical location and familial traditions. Some families may emphasize certain customs or foods that are unique to their particular community or lineage. Lebanese Jews may incorporate elements of music, song, and dance into their Passover celebrations. This can include singing traditional Jewish songs and hymns, as well as performing traditional dances that reflect Lebanese cultural influences. Music and dance serve as expressions of joy and gratitude during the holiday festivities.

Ashkenazi Jews trace their roots primarily to Eastern Europe, and their Passover traditions reflect this heritage. Ashkenazi Jews often adhere to stricter interpretations of Passover dietary laws, such as avoiding not only chametz (leavened products) but also kitniyot (legumes, rice, corn, etc.). This stringency may influence their food choices and meal preparations during the holiday. Passover dishes like matzah ball soup, gefilte fish, and tzimmes have become emblematic of Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine during the holiday, reflecting the cultural significance of certain foods within the community. One of the most well-known customs among Ashkenazi Jews is the hiding and finding of the afikoman during the Seder. The afikoman, a piece of matzah, is broken and hidden by the leader of the Seder, and children eagerly search for it later in the evening. This interactive custom engages participants, especially children, in the retelling of the Exodus story and adds an element of anticipation and excitement to the Seder experience.

Overall, the differences in Passover traditions among Moroccan, Iraqi, Lebanese, and Ashkenazi Jews highlight the diversity and richness of Jewish cultural heritage. Each community's unique customs, foods, and practices contribute to the tapestry of Jewish identity and expression worldwide.