THE MYSTERIOUS ADDITION TO THE HAGGADAH

Before we begin Maggid on seder night, we insert a short paragraph in Aramaic, which begins with the words: “Ha Lachma Anya” – “this is the bread of affliction”.

What are the origins of this strange insertion, and why do we say it? Why is it in Aramaic, and not in Hebrew? What is the real reason for eating matza on Pesach, as opposed to not eating or owning Chametz? Why does “Ha Lachma Anya” include a reference to the return to Jerusalem?

Rabbi Dunner shares insights into this Haggada vignette, and sheds light on some of the most fundamental aspects of Pesach and Yetziat Mitzrayim.