Once nearly exclusively observed by Jews, Seders are becomingmore and more secular, with tons of gentiles attending.
Heres what it’s crucial that you know before you show up.
Should a non-Jew even accept an invitation to a Seder?
In most cases my answer is a wholehearted yes!
But there are exceptions.
There arearguments about cultural appropriationas well.
If you have any doubts, ask.
Its a compelling story with something for everyone.
If you like religion, theres a ton of it.
Every household does their Seder differently.
What Im saying is, ask your host about the nature of the Seder before you go.
You dont want to barge in in the middle of the story.
Do not show up with ham and cheese salad.
Stay on the safe side and bring flowers.
This is not a shovel-down-your-food-and-go-watch-the-game situation like ThanksgivingSeder can last up to four hours.
You may get drunk
Drinking wine isnt just allowed during a Seder, its encouraged by God.
These are not for eating, no matter how appetizing they look.
Dont worry too much if you cant pronounce some of words.
It happens to everyone.
Matzah: This is unleavened bread.
Its bland, a little like a saltine.
Gefilte fish: This is a ground fish dish.
Kosher wine: There is good kosher wine.
And there is Manischewitz.
Maror: This is the bitter herb called for during the seder.
But people sometimes substitute romaine lettuce if the cant take the spiciness.
Haroset: This sweet paste is made of fruits and nuts.
Unleavened: There will be no dinner rolls.
No cake made with flour.
Kids love finding the afikoman (matzah hidden by the host).
I hate it because it reminds me of losing my car keys.
Fooling children is the best.
Instead, be open-minded.
If you cant do that, at least keep your mouth shut.
Some uncle on his fourth glass of Manischewitz might make some deprecating jokes about Judaism.
Do not join in.
This is one of those they can say that because they live it.
You cant because you dont situations.
If you tend to have trouble reading a room, dont show up at the Seder.
