One of the mistakes that we make is that we think we can reason with anti-Semites. Their hatred is so great that it defies reason. As was told to me many years ago, you simply cannot reason with a rabid dog. You have to realize that its either you or the rabid dog.
Opening the Door for Elijah – What Are We Really Doing?
One of the most well-known moments at the Seder is when we open the door for Elijah the Prophet and pour an extra cup of wine.
At first glance, it feels uplifting—welcoming redemption.
But then we say something striking:
“Pour out Your wrath upon the nations…”
That doesn’t sound like a warm greeting. So what’s really going on?
The Historical Context
The custom of opening the door is actually not from the Talmud, but developed in the Middle Ages.
Why then?
Because Jews lived with a terrifying reality: blood libels.
A dead Christian child might be planted near a Jewish home, and mobs would use it as an excuse to attack.
So when Jews opened the door on Seder night, they were doing something very real:
- Demonstrating transparency
- Showing: we have nothing to hide
- Defying the accusation in the most public way possible
The Message of the Seder
Right before this moment, we say:
“In every generation, they rise against us to destroy us, and God saves us from their hands.”
That line is not theoretical—it reflects Jewish history.
Opening the door becomes a statement of faith and awareness:
- We trust God’s protection
- But we also recognize reality
Why Are Jews Targeted?
The insight here is powerful and very much rooted in classical thinking:
- This goes back to Amalek, the first nation to attack Israel after the Exodus
- Not because of what we did—but because of what we represent
The Core Idea:
The Torah introduces morality, accountability, and limits on power
In contrast:
- Ancient societies often embraced immorality
- Or totalitarian control (like the Tower of Babel)
The Jewish mission challenges both.
That makes us a target.
A Hard Truth
A key takeaway:
- Antisemitism is not always rational
- It cannot always be explained away or negotiated
As we know:
They hate us because we are Jews—not because of what we do.
That’s an uncomfortable but historically grounded reality.
Then What Is Our Response?
The Torah’s response is not naïve:
- Be aware of danger
- Do not rely on illusions
- Stand firm in identity and values
And at the same time:
- Trust in God
- Maintain moral clarity
- Continue the mission
A Modern Framing
We shouldn’t aim to be liked—we should aim to be respected.
- The world may not always approve
- But strength and moral clarity earn respect
Final Thought for the Seder
Opening the door for Elijah is not just about redemption.
It is a powerful moment where we declare:
- We remember our history
- We understand our reality
- We remain committed to our mission
And we trust that ultimately:
Redemption will come—not despite history, but through it.
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