Why do we need to get rid of every speck of chametz before Pesach? Can't we just eat matza for 7 days. The Rabbis teach us that chametz represents the yetzer hara, primarily the negative middot of arrogance, anger, egocentricity and illusion. Matza is the bread of humility, simplicity, clarity and freedom. We first need to turn away from evil before we can do good. Ridding ourselves of the chametz within us helps us to access our unlimited potential and break free of the constraints that we impose upon ourselves by illusory thoughts. Matza also represents speed, a necessary quality in avodat Hashem.