Passover: the freedom that unites us
These days, the Jewish world is celebrating Passover — a holiday that tells of a pivotal moment in Jewish history when an entire nation stepped from slavery to freedom in one night. The Exodus from Egypt is not a dusty page of ancient history, but a living experience that each generation relives anew. Especially now, after the tragedy of October 7, 2023, the words of the Haggadah sound with new, piercing power.
Passover is the cornerstone of our identity. It symbolizes not only liberation from chains but also a spiritual leap: from oppression to self-determination, from darkness to light. Freedom in Jewish tradition is not an abstract concept but the life force of a people who have defended their right to a future for millennia.
When we gather for the Passover Seder, we do not just remember ancient history — we relive it anew and again ask ourselves: what modern “Egypts” must we overcome today?
The year 2025 makes this question particularly acute. After the HAMAS attack, which took 1,182 lives and left a deep scar across the entire country, Israel found itself at the epicenter of a fierce delegitimization campaign. From the UN podiums to universities and social networks, attempts to tarnish the Jewish state continue unabated. In the diaspora — from Paris to New York — Jews are again facing accusations and threats.
.But Passover reminds us: true freedom begins within. It’s the ability to stand upright and remain true to oneself – even when it seems the whole world has collapsed. It’s fidelity to oneself, one’s history, and community.
Passover traditions suggest to us:
To value freedom means to not remain silent in the face of lies and injustice.
To help one’s neighbor means to support those who are close, whether they are in Jerusalem or thousands of kilometers away.
The Seder — is not just a meal and prayer, it’s a moment of family and national unity.
“Passover teaches that freedom is above all a choice. For many – it’s the choice to return to Israel, where every Jew finds a home. We help make this step. — says Marina Rosenberg Koritny, head of the Department for the Promotion of Aliyah of the World Zionist Organization. — Today, as Jews of the diaspora look towards Israel with anxiety and hope, Passover reminds us of an important truth: together we are stronger. We may have different views, but in these days, we especially feel ourselves part of one big family. What unites us is a common aspiration — for freedom and dignity. And it is precisely this solidarity that helps us move forward. Happy Passover!”
