Pesach: Preparation and Excitement
Rabbi Bentzion Twerski Shlit”a
It is no secret that Pesach is the most widely observed Jewish holiday. Even among Jews who are Torah observant and are involved in the traditions all year, Pesach carries an excitement which is in a league of its own. What is the secret of this phenomenon?
It is also no secret that Pesach is the holiday which involves the most intense preparations. Perhaps these two facts are connected. I would suggest that the passion and thrill of Pesach can be directly attributed to the preparation and complete family involvement in all aspects of the Yom Tov. Although it is hard and stressful work, we gain something invaluable. Active involvement in preparing for Pesach releases within us a completely different appreciation of the Yom Tov. In fact, the more we invest - the harder we work - in preparing for the amazing privilege of performing the will of the Creator of the world, the more connected we feel to Hashem, and the more we enjoy Pesach itself.
Over the past several years, we have operated a Shmura Matzo bakery in our backyard. Families throughout the community come and join in the baking. The matzo baking triggers something within the participants that is unique. We have found that there are not enough hours to satisfy the desire of the community to bake. People want to invest, and work hard, so they can literally eat the fruits of their labors.
In addition to all of the necessary physical preparation that is required to enable a kosher and enjoyable Pesach, there is a vital element of spiritual and intellectual preparation as well. Unquestionably, the more we delve into the Torah of the Yom Tov, the greater the experience will be. The Halachos of Pesach, as well as the laws of observing Yom Tov and Chol Hamoed, are just one facet of the Torah of Pesach. The commentary on the Hagaddah is vast and easily accessible in English as well as other languages. The Hashkafa, the philosophy of the Yom Tov, as well as the Kabbalistic literature is another exciting approach to the Torah of Pesach. It's not easy to find the time during such a busy season. And that should motivate us, because the effort we invest in learning any or all of these will add to our anticipation and excitement for Pesach.
One of the gifts of our Kollel is the resource of the scholars, the Yungerleit, who readily share their time to help us gain ever deeper knowledge into every aspect of Torah. As we approach Pesach and the intellectual and spiritual preparation it requires, we recognize this jewel in our midst and we thank them for everything they offer to enrich our community, both by example, and by teaching and sharing their Torah knowledge.
And, with the Kollel as well, the more we invest, the greater the dividends will be.
Chag Kasher v’Sameach.
