Cleaning for Pesach, Amsterdam
This is a postcard with an illustration of women cleaning the house for Pesach. The caption underneath the picture is in French and reads: "Searching for leavened bread." The women and girls are scrubbing the table, cupboards, and utensils in what seems like a wealthy household.
During Pesach, chametz (leavened bread) is not allowed in the home. In order to prepare for the festival, the members of the family spend a long time cleaning the areas that might have crumbs of chametz. After cleaning, it is customary to exchange the eating utensils for special ones used only during the week of Pesach.
Teaching Suggestions
This postcard could be used in Jewish Studies lessons in the period leading up to Pesach during which it is customary to clean for the festival. Students could compare this postcard with their own experiences. This resource could be used alongside other resources that illustrate Pesach cleaning.
Discussion Points
-
What are the people in the picture doing?
-
What custom do you think this picture represents?
-
In which room of the house does the scene take place?
-
The room in the picture was probably in the house of a wealthy Jewish family. Which details tell us that?
-
Why are there only women in the picture?
-
Do you do Pesach cleaning in your home?
What are your jobs?
Does your family prepare for Pesach in other ways?