by Rabbi Mordechai Rhine

Seder means order. And order is important.

Take Pesach preparations for example. Did you ever try to Kosher the kitchen before cleaning it? Or, buy all your Pesach products before making place to put them? Doing things in order is truly the theme of the holiday. This is especially true at the seder, which gets its name from the fact that it is done in a calculated, orderly fashion.

In this week’s parsha we are told that there is a seder- a proper order- which must be employed for effective living. The Torah describes the process of atonement which was effectuated by the Kohein Gadol on Yom Kippur. So great was the Kohein Gadol that he could activate G-d’s love and blessing for the entire world. Healing, prosperity, healthy children, peace, and serenity were all part of the prayers of the Kohein Gadol on this special day. But there was a process.

The Torah tells us that first, “He shall atone for his household,” referring to his wife. Then he would atone for the Kohanim. And only then would he atone for the entire Jewish people and attain blessing for the entire world.

Sometimes we meet people who don’t realize the importance of doing things in order. They may decide to try and fix the world, but haven’t spent time properly developing the relationship they have with their spouse, and inner circle of friends. Or, they may have much great intellect- they can give great advice- but have never spent the time and emotional energy to first implement that great wisdom in their own lives. They may do much good, but because it is done out of order and without a proper foundation, it is doubtful that their approach will endure. Going in order may take longer, but it can be described as the long route which gets you to your destination.

As the holiday of Pesach nears, we are aware of the unbridled potential that this season brings. Hashem declares, “I am Hashem, your G-d, who took you out of Egypt. Open your mouth and I will fill it.” Just as when we left Egypt we could not have fathomed the great role that Jews would play in the world, so we often sell ourselves short, not realizing the great potential that is available to us. Hashem asks that we open our mouths wide, and be open to great blessing. For sure, we are able to bring blessing to the entire world. But the theme of the season is to do it with a seder, to do things in order. In that way we will succeed.

Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy, kosher, and joyous Pesach!

© 2014 by TEACH613