Hanukkah is a well-known Jewish holiday celebrated throughout the world. During this eight day celebration, families will typically gather for prayers, a special candle-lighting ceremony, storytelling, and gift giving. The exchanging of gifts is one of the most beloved parts of the holiday as it is a time to show appreciation and love for family and friends. So what gifts are given on Hanukkah?
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What Gifts Are Given At Hanukkah?
Gift giving during Hanukkah consists of presenting thoughtful gifts to family and friends. The type of gifts presented can vary from person to person depending on their tastes and wants, however there a few traditional Hanukkah gifts that are found in almost any Jewish household during the holiday.
1. Chanukkiah
The Chanukkiah is an eight branched candelabra which holds each of the eight days’ candles. It is lit every individual night and usually placed in a prominent place in the house, as it is the centerpiece of the Hanukkah celebration. Families may give each other Chanukkia to symbolize the remembrance of the Maccabean Revolt, and also to replace old ones.
2. Dreidl
A Dreidl is a spinning top that kids will play with as a game. Each player takes a turn to spin the toy, and the letter that is up when the toy stops spinning will determine the outcome of the game. A Dreidl is usually crafted out of wood, plastic or even metal, and is given to the children of the family. It symbolizes luck, which serves as an appropriate gift for this holiday.
3. Latkes
Latkes are a potato pancake often associated with Hanukkah. They are given as gifts to bring the family and friends together. Latkes usually get served with a side of applesauce, however there is no wrong way to eat them. Latkes at Hanukkah serve as a reminder of the oil miracle that happened during the time of the Maccabees, as the most important feature of a latke is the oil that is used in its preparation.
4. Menorah Oil
The Menorah is a candelabrum with nine branches used in the Hanukkah celebration. This gift usually consists of special oil that can be used to fill the lamps of the Menorah. The oil is considered to be a reminder of the miracle that happened in the Temple in Jerusalem, where a one-day supply of oil managed to last for eight days.
5. Gelt
Gelt is a traditional treat presented in Hanukkah. It can be either real coins as a symbol of success, or chocolates wrapped in gold foil. People usually give the children of the family gelt to play a game of dreidl with it, and get a small treat afterwards.
At Hanukkah, giving meaningful gifts is of the utmost importance. Whether it is a Chanukkiah, dreidl, candy, latkes, oil, or gelt, every type of meaningful gift has a story behind it that will help those exchanging it remember the important history that surrounds this beloved holiday.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.