It's a father-eats-what? world

rymenhild, puzzled by the traditional Passover song Chad Gadya, has challenged her readers to interpret it. It really got me thinking, so here's my answer. Go first to this post, in which she gives the translation and also an intriguing recording of the song. (There's another version available here, the Israeli version; sung by kindergarten children, I'm afraid, but this is the version I've always heard sung.) For those who are less familiar with Passover, it is a Jewish festival which celebrates the Exodus, the escape from slavery in Egypt and journey to the Promised Land, under the leadership of Moses, and there is a preoccupation with lists and hierarchies in the songs and in the spoken text. Here's a basic guide to Passover rituals.

( On reflection, this song is pretty grim )

And now I challenge you all to interpret my interpretation.

It's a father-eats-what? world

rymenhild, puzzled by the traditional Passover song Chad Gadya, has challenged her readers to interpret it. It really got me thinking, so here's my answer. Go first to this post, in which she gives the translation and also an intriguing recording of the song. (There's another version available here, the Israeli version; sung by kindergarten children, I'm afraid, but this is the version I've always heard sung.) For those who are less familiar with Passover, it is a Jewish festival which celebrates the Exodus, the escape from slavery in Egypt and journey to the Promised Land, under the leadership of Moses, and there is a preoccupation with lists and hierarchies in the songs and in the spoken text. Here's a basic guide to Passover rituals.

( On reflection, this song is pretty grim )

And now I challenge you all to interpret my interpretation.