New Books Network Sarah Berman, "Haggadah Shel Erev Rav: The Mixed Multitude Haggadah" (CCAR Press, 2026)
Mar 29, 2026
Sarah Berman, Director of Jewish Culture and Programming at Central Synagogue and editor of a new inclusive Haggadah. She discusses the book’s vivid Siona Benjamin artwork, four pathway reimaginings of Magid, additions like Miriam’s cup, and design choices that balance tradition with accessible, customizable ritual.
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Haggadah Born From A 20th Anniversary Tribute
- Rabbi Sarah Berman described creating the Haggadah to honor Rabbi Angela Buchdahl's 20th anniversary at Central Synagogue.
- The project celebrates Buchdahl's inclusive vision and the idea of the Jewish "mixed multitude" who left Egypt together.
Haggadah Is Medieval Script Updated For Today
- The Haggadah is a medieval, multi-origin ritual manual that prescribes the order of the Seder.
- Berman used recent Reform translations by Janet and Sheldon Marder to keep traditional Hebrew while modernizing language and accessibility.
Transcultural Artwork Reframes The Passover Story
- Artist Siona Benjamin brings Bene Israel, South Asian miniature, Persian Mughal, and modern influences to visually narrate Passover.
- Her trans-cultural style intentionally expands Jewish visual traditions beyond Ashkenazi/Sephardi norms.
