Passover: The Power of Asking Questions

Rabbi Ariel Platt 

Passover begins at sundown this evening and ends at sundown on Thursday, April 9th. 

At the heart of Passover is the Seder—a ritual meal retelling the Exodus through symbolic foods and tradition—it centers not just on storytelling, but on something deeper: the power of asking questions.

In fact, the tradition teaches that the story of the Exodus cannot even begin until at least one genuine question is asked. It’s not enough to recite words from memory. The experience must be sparked by real curiosity.

This idea comes to life through the Four Questions, beginning with the timeless: “How is this night different from all other nights?” But the Seder goes even further. It introduces the Four Children—wise, rebellious, simple, and one who does not yet know how to ask—reminding us that every person engages differently, and that it is our responsibility to nurture curiosity in all its forms. Especially for those who don’t yet know how to ask; we are taught to help them find their voice.

Why is asking questions such a core part of this tradition?

Because questioning is the foundation of growth. It encourages us to explore, to challenge assumptions, and to seek deeper understanding. At the Seder table, teaching children to ask questions is, in many ways, giving them the gift of freedom—the freedom to think, to discover, and to engage meaningfully with the world around them.

In a world of filters, quick takes, and echo chambers, that reminder feels more important than ever.

As Albert Einstein said: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.”

Over the next eight days, consider: What are your four questions? What assumptions might you challenge? What conversations might you open?

Let Passover inspire you to stay curious—and not to stop asking.

Chag Sameach! Happy Passover!