Understanding the Fourth Child: She'enu Yodei Elishal

In this episode of Haggadah Insights, we delve into the intriguing concept of the fourth child in the Haggadah, known as She'enu Yodei Lishol - the child who doesn't know how to ask. Rabbi Norman Lamm, in his celebrated commentary "The Royal Table," challenges the traditional perception of this child as unintelligent. Instead, he identifies three distinct groups within this category: the morally apathetic, the shy who fear revealing their ignorance, and the assimilated who struggle to form their questions.

Rabbi Lamm emphasizes the importance of outreach to these individuals, highlighting the need for warmth, love, and dialogue. He draws parallel lessons from the journey of the Jewish people from idol worship to receiving the Torah, emphasizing the potential for spiritual growth and transformation. This message of hope and inspiration forms the core of our discussion, aiming to engage and uplift those who find themselves silent or hesitant in their spiritual quest.