Pesach Customs from around the world

Passover is celebrated by Jewish communities worldwide, but different regions have developed unique customs over time. Here are some interesting Passover traditions from various Jewish communities:

1. Morocco – Mimouna Festival

At the end of Passover, Moroccan Jews celebrate Mimouna, a joyous festival marking the return to eating chametz. Families open their homes, setting tables with sweets, fruit, and a special dish called moufleta (a thin pancake served with honey and butter). Non-Jewish neighbors often visit to partake in the festivities.

2. Yemen – Beating Bitter Herbs

Some Yemenite Jews have a custom of playfully "beating" guests or children with bitter herbs while reciting the ten plagues. This symbolizes the harshness of Egyptian slavery and serves as a reminder of suffering.

3. Persia (Iran) – Whipping with Scallions

During the singing of "Dayenu," some Persian Jews playfully whip each other with green onions to symbolize the hardships of slavery and the whips of the Egyptians.

4. Gibraltar – Using Actual Bricks for Charoset

In Gibraltar, Passover charoset (which represents the mortar used by the Israelite slaves) is sometimes made with actual ground-up brick dust mixed in with sweet fruits and nuts.

5. India – Special Elijah’s Cup Ritual

Bene Israel Jews in India have a special custom where each person takes a sip from Elijah’s cup during the Seder, symbolizing their connection to the prophet.

6. Ethiopia – Eating Matzo for the Entire Month

The Beta Israel (Ethiopian Jews) celebrate Passover by eating matzo for the entire month of Nisan, not just the seven or eight days of Passover.

7. Italy – Seder Plays and Special Matzot

Some Italian Jewish communities reenact the Exodus with small theatrical performances during the Seder. Additionally, Italian Jews make a unique round, soft matzo known as pane azzimo.

8. Georgia – Knocking on the Door During the Seder

Georgian Jews have a custom where a young person knocks on the door during the Seder, and the host asks, "Who are you?" The answer is, "I am an Israelite leaving Egypt," symbolizing the Exodus.

9. Afghanistan – Passing the Seder Plate Over the Head

Afghan Jews have a custom of passing the Seder plate over each person's head while reciting "Ha Lachma Anya," signifying their personal connection to the story of slavery and redemption.

10. Tunisia – Seder with a Live Fish

Some Tunisian Jews place a live fish in a bowl of water on the Seder table, symbolizing the Israelites' survival and freedom, as fish are often seen as a sign of divine protection.

Each of these customs highlights how different Jewish communities have infused their Passover celebrations with unique local traditions while maintaining the core themes of freedom and redemption.

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