Hametz and Why We Destroy It

The central prohibition for Passover is the eaten of leavening, or hametz.  The Hebrew word “hametz” is translated as leavened bread and refers to food prepared from five species of grain--wheat, barley, oats, spelt, and rye--that has been allowed to leaven. To these, Ashkenazic [European Jewish] authorities add rice, millet, corn, and legumes. [It should be noted that the Conservative movement in Israel has declared that legumes may be consumed on Pesach even by its Ashkenazic followers.]

One treasured memory from my childhood was bedikat hametz, the search for hametz, which happened the night before Passover.  Armed with a feather and a candle (my mother was dedicated to making it an experience!), we searched the house for wayward crumbs.  I don't remember finding a huge amount, but I do recall the process of discovery and destruction.

If you would like to learn more of the traditions surrounding the search and destruction of hametz in advance of Passover, which begins Friday, April 6th, check out this great resource from MyJewishLearning.com.