The ninth part of the Seder is "Maror" which consists of eating bitter herbs.
When we chew the Maror and taste the bitterness of the herb we recall the bitterness felt by our ancestors in Egypt. It was this bitterness they experienced that was the key to the redemption. The Israelites never felt at home there and yearned to be set free. This bitterness is recalled on Seder night, when we sit there celebrating the freedom from Egypt, while also hoping for our own freedom from the current exile. We may be comfortable today yet we still encounter bitter experiences whereever we are.
The most common types of Maror are Horseradish and Romaine Lettuce. The required amount is taken and dipped into Charoset, which is then shaken off.
Make the blessing
(Transliterated Hebrew)
Baruch Ata Ado-nai Elo-heinu Melech Haolam Asher Ki-d’shanu Be-mitzvotav Vetzivanu al Achilat Maror.
(English)
Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, Who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us concerning the eating of Maror.
and eat.
