Hallel: First Day(s) Pesach: Walking with a Flute VI

We sing this Hallel just as the Children of Israel sang their Hallel on the first morning of Pesach, when they began their journey to freedom:

They had stopped working almost a year earlier, when the plagues began. They tasted freedom, but not independence until the day before when they offered their Pesach. These incredible human beings, on their way into the desert, where they would be totally dependent on God, focused on the gift of independence; they did not see it as a contradiction. With each step they took on their path into freedom they sang:

“What can I respond to God for all the good He has given to make me independent?

I will lift up the cup of salvation and I will call out in God’s Name.

I will fulfill my promises to God in front of all His nation.

Death to His pious ones is precious in God’s eyes.

Please God, allow me to be Your servant.

I am Your worker, the son of Your maidservant,

You unlocked my chains.”

How would they maintain that sense of independence even when surrounded by God’s Clouds of Protection? By promising:

“I will bring an offering of thanks to You, and I will call out in the Name of God.

I will fulfill my promises to God in front of all His nation.

In the courtyards of God’s House, in the center of Jerusalem.

Hallelukah!”

The Seder encourages us to, “Go out and learn,” or, become independent learners. We too look far ahead into the future, “Next year in Jerusalem,” and promise that we will acknowledge the gift of independence in the perfect place; in the courtyards of God’s House.