The Book of Proverbs instructs us to “speak up for those who cannot speak...to raise our voices on behalf of the vulnerable and downtrodden.” (Proverbs 31:8-9). The individuals who make up America’s prison population are isolated, vulnerable, and voiceless.

Instead of longing for traditions of years past, we reveled in the joy that comes with stepping away from convention and creating new rituals that hold deep symbolic meaning –  just like the Jews who fled Egypt so many years ago.

Whether you're hosting a seder via Zoom or doing a small, in-person seder with those quarantined with you at home, these two new video resources may be helpful in guiding you through the steps of the seder.

"Source of Blessing, our lives are in turmoil, our hearts heavy. Help us to cope with this modern plague..."

Editor's Note: This piece was originally published on March 17, 2013.

On a recent trip to Jerusalem, my son decided that his favorite color was gold. Whenever he’s asked why, he replies with a wry smile befitting a 5-year-old.

“Jerusalem is the city of

Each year on Passover, we ask “Mah nishtanah,” “Why is this night different?” This year, though, we know why: Pesach 5780 is simply unlike any other.

During this period of physical distancing, it’s more important than ever to create meaning and community wherever we can. Need some inspiration? Try these ideas for Passover under quarantine

During this surreal period, many of us are trying hard to keep sadness and anxiety at bay, and that’s important. It's equally important, though, to remain connected to our feelings. Each of us is giving up so many things this year – and for me, the hardest thing to lose is our Passover seder.

If we are to heed the call of freedom that Passover offers us, we must not close our eyes to the degradation currently taking place right outside our door.