SEDER (sädher «order»). — A Hebrew liturgical term that specifically refers to the order or ceremonial to be observed for the Jewish Passover meal, aiming, according to *Ex.* 13:3, to narrate in an intelligible way the story of the Exodus from Egypt.
In accordance with the teaching of Rabbán Gamaliele, the three constitutive elements are explained: the Passover sacrifice (the lamb), the unleavened bread, and the bitter herbs. This is followed by the recitation of Psalms 113–114, the blessing for liberation, and a series of homiletic additions. The bitter herbs recall the sufferings endured in Egypt; a mixture of apples, nuts, etc. (v. HARÓSETH) recalls the bricks made in Egypt (Ex. 1:14). The four cups of wine for each of the diners are explained as an allusion to the four expressions for “to deliver, to save” found in the sacred text. The meal begins with the blessing over the first cup, called *qiddûsh* (v.). This is followed by the washing of hands and the consumption of herbs dipped in salt water. Of the three unleavened loaves prepared, the middle one is divided into two parts, one of which is set aside to mark the conclusion of the meal. This reserved bread (v. AFIQÓMEN) is wrapped in a white cloth (Ex. 12:34). The second cup is filled, and a child asks four questions, thereby requesting an explanation of the historical memories to which the ceremonial refers. Hands are washed again before the meal, the blessing over the bread is recited, and the bitter herbs, the mortar, and the unleavened bread are eaten (Num. 9:11). Eggs are eaten and the meal is consumed. Thanksgiving is then offered to God for the meal, and the third cup is drunk. At an open door, the following texts are recited: Ps. 79:6–7; 69:25; Lam. 3:66. The fourth cup is filled, and Psalms 115–118 (v. HALLÉL), 136, and various extra-biblical hymns are read. The fourth cup is drunk, and the blessing (praise) over the wine is recited.