Blessing over Wine for the Seder Night

Blessed are You, Lord, our God, King of the universe, who created the juice of wine and fine new wine from branches of grapevines, which is pleasing for the soul and good for man and which gladdens the heart and brightens the face [see Psalms 104:15].

It provides consolation to mourners [see Jeremiah 16:7] and helps the bitter of soul forget their misery. It is a cure for all who drink it, for those who drink it in proper taste and in a discerning manner. It is gladness of the heart, joy, and much delight for those who drink it. It is a substance our God created long ago; He established it ahead of time for us to enjoy in our work, so that all who drink it should bless the Lord, and praise the One who forms understanding, who prepares the delicacies of the world, and formed the sweet foods of the land. He is our Lord, who created new wine from the vine and generated juice from grapes, to satisfy the hungry soul, and fill the longing soul [see Psalms 107:9]. The heart of those who drink it will be gladdened, and they will bless their Creator for the fruit of His handiwork.

Blessed are You, Lord, the King who is alone exalted, the holy God, who creates the fruit of the vine.

Translated by Avi Steinhart.

Published in: The Posen Library of Jewish Culture and Civilization, vol. 3: Encountering Christianity and Islam.

Engage with this Source

This extended version of the blessing over wine was the subject of debate among the geonim in Baghdad. In his prayer book, Se‘adya Ga’on criticizes the recitation of such blessings, and although he does not mention this text in particular, he may well have had it in mind. Hayya Ga’on, however, permitted its recitation because it was “beloved.” It appears that this poetic blessing was not originally written for Passover eve, but some communities did recite it specifically at this time (Hayya mentions Basra and Elam, which are both in Iraq, and Persia). Other piyyut versions of more standard rabbinic blessings circulated in this period as well. It no longer forms part of the standard liturgy.

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