Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival that celebrates the re-dedication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and is marked with festivities, food, prayer and gifts. One of the most widely celebrated aspects of Hanukkah is the exchange of presents. But how many gifts are given during Hanukkah?
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Gifting in Hanukkah
The exact number of gifts that should be given during Hanukkah varies from family to family, but traditionally a different gift is given each night for all 8 nights. It is also common for friends and family to gather and exchange gifts throughout Hanukkah.
Giving Gelt
Gelt is a traditional Hanukkah gift of “money” or chocolate coins given in imitation of the money that was donated for the repair and re-dedication of the Holy Temple. Normally children receive gelt as a gift, as there is an old Jewish tradition of giving children money as a reward for studying the Torah.
Giving Dreidels
Traditionally, dreidels are given as gifts, especially from parents to children. Dreidels are small spinning tops inscribed with Hebrew letters that serve as a reminder of the miracle of Hanukkah. In addition, gift certificates to purchase books, Judaica, or religious items commonly are given during Hanukkah.
Giving Hanukkah Food
Food items are given as Hanukkah gifts, particularly items used to celebrate the Festival of Lights, such as oil, matzah, nuts, smoked fish, or sweet treats like jelly doughnuts, dried fruit, honey cake, or Hanukkah gelt.
Giving Other Gifts
Other Hanukkah gifts may include games, music, artwork, books, or even jewelry – the sky is the limit! In fact, some families even exchange gifts on all 8 nights of Hanukkah that pertain to their family hobby or favorite pastime.
Hanukkah is a special time of year and presents can contribute to the overall joy of the Festival of Lights. The giving of gifts is in itself an honor to the miracle of the Maccabees reclaiming the Holy Temple and the re-dedication of the Menorah. Therefore, choose your gifts thoughtfully and enjoy the spirit of giving during Hanukkah.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.