Mary Shaked’s Culinary Heritage
Mary Shaked’s passion for Iraqi cuisine is evident in her cooking and baking workshops. Her childhood Passover memories center around the food, including broad beans peeled by her father, roasted lamb with potatoes and tomatoes, and homemade haroset made from dates and walnuts.
Ora Hatan’s Northern Moshav Traditions
Ora Hatan is the only resident remaining in the northern moshav of Shtula. Despite the war, she continues to prepare meals for soldiers and feed abandoned pets. During Passover, she and her family engage in a playful tradition where younger children dress as ancient Israelites and recite the Four Questions while knocking on the door.
Ma’ayan Turner’s Reform Movement Influences
Rabbi Ma’ayan Turner incorporates symbols from the Reform movement into her Seder celebrations, including Miriam’s cup and an orange. She believes that the Seder should be a creative conversation, enabling participants to share their personal interpretations of the exodus story.
Yosef Bar Natan’s Bukharan Customs
Yosef Bar Natan’s Bukharan heritage influences his childhood Passover memories. He recalls colorful garments, traditional music, and special meals. The celebration included a humorous interpretation of the Four Sons, with everyone arguing over who would read the part of the bad son.
Passover in a Time of Captivity
Despite the joy and celebration of Passover, the captivity of Israeli citizens casts a shadow over the holiday. Rabbi Turner reminds us to appreciate our freedom and to continue telling the story of the exodus, especially in light of current events.
