Gray Catbird : Pesach’s Four Children

This is a Gray Catbird. I at first had no idea what it was nor how to place it. It was a bird out of context and entirely outside my frame of reference. Not to mix metaphors, but it left me utterly buffaloed. A new warbler or hummingbird, I could have easily associated with others I knew. Later I was able to get some expert help, and I learned they’re notoriously secretive and challenging to spot. So I was pretty proud of myself for “capturing” this one.

The essence of Passover is the retelling of the Exodus from Egypt - to our next generation. We are commanded to be accommodating, telling the story appropriately for four archetypical children: one Wise, one Wicked, one Simple, and one Unable to Question. This comprehensive approach insures that regardless of the listener, there is “something for everyone.” Continuity is assured by telling the story holistically, recognizing the children’s diversity and the varied perspectives of the community writ large. That we are here - today, millennia later - is validation of the power of the ritual.

When I was a child at Seders, I identified as the Wise Son. As a grown man, I (all too often!) have to acknowledge my blindspots, how I am Simple. Contrasting the two reveals a bit (or more?) of egoism, suggesting a touch of the Wicked child too. The Fourth Child is truly enigmatic. Unable to Question - because she is stumped to the point of stunned? - because he observes rituals but is immune to their value? I’ve been this Child. As have we all. Tanakh’s insight - millennia ago - is the reality of our composite nature. Applying that knowledge, to the Seder and the experience of the Catbird, is why we continue to thrive and flourish.