SHFOCH CHAMATCHA – OPENING DOORS, POURING OUT WRATH

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Rabbi Dunner takes us to the heart of a cherished Passover tradition: opening our doors for Elijah the Prophet towards the end of the Seder, as we solemnly declare ‘Shfoch Chamatcha El Hagoyim Asher Lo Yeda’ucha’ – ‘Pour out Your wrath on the nations that do not know You.’

What is the origin of this strange custom? Why does Elijah the Prophet appear at our Seder? How does the harsh sentiments of ‘Shefoch Chamatcha’ fit in with the Seder night theme?

Rabbi Dunner examines the origins and significance of inviting Elijah into our homes juxtaposed with the powerful plea to God to pour out His divine wrath upon oppressors, uncovering the layers of meaning behind these rituals and how they challenge us to reflect on what celebrating the Exodus from Egypt is all about.