Teaching Wonders of Pesach is our Obligation
Rabbi Mendel Senderovic Shlita
As we approach the Yom Tov of Pesach, our focus once again turns to the redemption of our people from Mitzrayim, and our obligation – and opportunity – to pass on to our children and grandchildren the wondrous events that surrounded the founding of our nation.
The importance of conveying this narrative is illustrated by a wonderful story involving Rav Yisroel Salanter zt”l. Rav Yisroel would often travel throughout Europe. At one lodging that he would frequent, he noticed that his host had lessened his commitment to Torah and Mitzvos. Upon inquiring as to the reason for the sudden change, his host related that just a few days prior he had hosted at his inn an apostate who had denied the concept of heavenly “reward and punishment.” To prove his point, he had purchased a non-kosher sandwich and announced that if there is indeed “reward and punishment” then he should choke on his food as he eats it and die. Well, he ate it, and nothing happened. Ever since then confusion entered the mind of the innkeeper, and he was consumed by questions of faith in Hashem’s providence. Rav Yisroel did not respond, and returned to his room.
Several hours later, his host’s daughter returned home from school. She proudly announced that she had received two certificates of excellence – in mathematics and in music. Rav Yisroel asked her to play a piece before him to prove that she had indeed achieved excellence in music. The girl refused. When asked by her father why she had denied the prominent guest’s request, the girl replied that she felt that it was neither polite nor reasonable for him to make such a request. A musical performance requires a proper setting and time. Is it sensible to say that every time someone challenges her, she should be forced to prove her musical abilities? Her talent is already evident by the fact that she has received her certificate.
Rav Yisroel turned to his host and said that his daughter’s response answers his question, too. Through Hashem’s open miracles upon taking us out of Mitzrayim, He has already shown his Divine Providence to be seen by all the nations. The “Certificate” – our Torah – has already been given. Is it reasonable to say that Hashem should alter nature as proof for every person that could arise throughout the generations and question Hashem’s providence?
In fact, the Ramban (end of Parshas Bo) writes: “And since The Holy One Blessed be He will not perform signs and wonders in each generation for each wicked person and apostate to see, He commanded us to always make a commemoration and sign to what our eyes have seen, and pass the matter on to our children, and they to their children, until the final generation.”
May we merit to use this opportunity to instill in those around us this legacy of Emunah - that we be cognizant of Hashem’s presence in all that happens. May we merit to see the ultimate redemption speedily in our days, as we will say at the Seder – “L’shana habaah b’Yerushalayim!”
