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After the washing of the hands it's time to bless the food. The head of the household traditionally lifts two challah loaves while reciting the blessing below. The bread is then ripped (or sliced) and passed around the table for everyone to enjoy.

In Judaism there is an idea that bread should not be handed to someone directly, so some families go so far as to throw the bread across the table to their guests! If you're feeling less athletic, you can toss the bread pieces to the center of the table for your guests to grab. The meal now begins!

Barukh atah Adonai, Eloheinu, melekh ha-olam

Blessed are You, Lord, our God, King of the Universe

hamotzi lechem min ha'aretz. (Amein).
who brings forth bread from the earth. (Amen)