03 Apr Susan’s Sound Advice #881
Since both Jews and Christians will be celebrating this weekend, I wanted to point out that, even though we may have different religious beliefs, these two holidays are similar in some very basic and simple ways: Both Easter, which is traditionally celebrated at sunrise, and Passover, traditionally celebrated at sunset, are family gatherings where friends are often invited to join in a special andritualized meal. As at any family gathering, at both Easter dinners and Passover Seders, there is always more “behind the scenes” drama than meets the eye. Weeks of planning, who gets invited, who hosts, who brings what dishes, even who sits where, may be the result of past experiences and years of family traditions. The children often have their own sets of needs and attention: Who has to sit near the relative who pinches their cheek, who gets to sit next to the window, who wins the egg or the afikoman hunt, and do I have to stop playing my video game? A difference between Easter and Passover is that celebrating Passover takes place in the home, while Easter celebration takes place in church. A Passover seder stands on its own as a religious event without the need for a Rabbi as the guide, and includes sing alongs to various songs, including the Hebrew song Dayenu. Easter, however, includes a church service and corresponding Easter music such as several Bach creations of the Passion of St. John and the Passion of St. Matthew. Both Easter and Passover involve an appreciation of Spring. This includes eggs, which are part of the Seder table and Easter celebrations; and lamb and greens, which are served at both Passover and Easter. The famous and iconic Leonardo da Vinci painting of The Last Supper reminds us of the connection between these two events since that was Jesus at a Passover Seder. This weekend, both religions will be reminded that, in spite of all we went through, as long as we stay connected through memory, ceremony, prayer, and celebration, the spirit of all who are gone will remain alive in our hearts. Happy Passover and Happy Easter, and may peace fill your world and overflow into the universe. #susankorwin
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