Have you ever wondered why, during the Passover Seder, we drink not one, not two, but four cups of wine? It’s a tradition rich in history and deep meaning, a powerful symbol of freedom!
The primary reason stems from four distinct promises God made to the Israelites in the Book of Exodus, found in chapter six, verses six and seven. These aren’t just any promises; they are the very foundation of their liberation from slavery in Egypt.
Each cup corresponds to one of these divine declarations. The first cup, “I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians,” marks the beginning of their journey to freedom.
The second cup, “I will deliver you from their bondage,” celebrates the actual act of rescue from slavery itself. It’s about being pulled away from oppression.
The third cup, “I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments,” signifies the powerful, dramatic redemption God enacted, defeating the Egyptians and truly liberating His people.
And finally, the fourth cup, “I will take you to Me for a people, and I will be to you God,” represents the ultimate promise: a covenant, a new relationship, where they become His chosen people.
So, these four cups aren’t just about drinking wine. They are a tangible reminder, a ritual reenactment, of each stage of God’s miraculous liberation, transforming a nation from slaves to free people. Each sip is a moment to reflect on freedom, gratitude, and the enduring power of these ancient promises.