What Is the Afikoman? Meaning and Role in the Passover Seder

The Afikoman is one of the most anticipated and symbolic elements of the Passover Seder. It is a piece of matzah set aside early in the evening, hidden, and later eaten near the end of the meal.

Although it may seem like a simple ritual—often involving children searching for a hidden piece of matzah—the Afikoman carries deeper meaning connected to memory, anticipation, and redemption.

What Is the Afikoman?

At the beginning of the Seder, three pieces of matzah are placed on the table. During the ritual known as Yachatz, the middle matzah is broken in two. One half is returned to the stack, and the larger half becomes the Afikoman.

This larger portion is wrapped and set aside to be eaten later in the evening.

Why Is the Afikoman Hidden?

In many homes, the Afikoman is hidden and later searched for by children. This custom keeps younger participants engaged and curious throughout the Seder.

Beyond participation, the hiding of the Afikoman creates anticipation. The Seder is structured as a journey, and the return of the hidden matzah mirrors themes of loss and restoration that run throughout the Exodus story.

When Is the Afikoman Eaten?

The Afikoman is eaten near the conclusion of the Seder meal, after the main courses have been served. It is traditionally the final food consumed that evening.

Its placement at the end ensures that the taste of matzah lingers, reinforcing the central themes of Passover before the Seder closes.

What Does the Afikoman Symbolize?

Several interpretations have been offered over time. Common themes include:

• Remembrance of the Passover offering brought in ancient times
• The enduring presence of faith, even when hidden
• The hope of redemption and completion

Because the Afikoman begins broken and partially concealed, it reflects the broader story of exile and return that shapes Jewish history.

The Afikoman and the Structure of the Seder

The Passover Seder follows a carefully arranged order, guided by the Haggadah. Each step builds toward the next, and the Afikoman plays a role in maintaining that structure.

By dividing the matzah early and reintroducing it later, the Seder reinforces the idea that the story of freedom unfolds in stages.

Why the Afikoman Still Resonates Today

The search for the Afikoman has become a beloved family moment in many households. Yet beyond the excitement, it highlights something enduring about Passover: freedom is remembered actively, not passively.

The Afikoman connects children and adults alike to the themes of anticipation, responsibility, and continuity.

A Hidden Piece With Lasting Meaning

Though small and simple, the Afikoman carries significant weight within the Seder. Hidden, revealed, and shared, it reflects the journey from concealment to clarity.

Each year, as the Afikoman is found and eaten, it brings the Passover story full circle—reminding participants that redemption often begins with something small, waiting to be uncovered.