Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, during his tenure as Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth in the United Kingdom, wrote this refreshing and insightful commentary to the Koren Haggadah, together with illuminating essays on the themes and motifs of the Festival of Freedom.

Sensitively translated, the traditional texts are carefully balanced alongside the Chief Rabbi’s contemporary ideas, in a modern and user-friendly design. With new interpretations and in-depth analyses of the Passover liturgy and rituals, Rabbi Sacks’ style is engaging, intelligent, at times daring in its innovation, and always inspiring.

At the other end of the book from the Haggadah itself, with its English translation and accompanying commentary, are Jonathan Sacks’ inspiring and often challenging essays. These include titles as diverse as ‘Pesach, Freud, and Jewish Identity’ and ‘Pesach and the Rebirth of Israel’. Topics vary from the contrasting natures of ancient Egypt and nascent Israel, to the role of women in the Exodus, and even posit ‘The Unasked Question’.

The role of Judaism and of Jews in the building of modern civilisation is a recurring theme, and time and again Jonathan Sacks’ sensible, sensitive approach brings new insights into the most familiar things.

With piercing insights into the Jewish story, and into the philosophy of leadership and nation-building, the Chief Rabbi’s Haggadah is a thought-provoking and essential companion at the Seder table.