Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev. It commemorates the victory of a small group of Jewish warriors, known as the Maccabees, over a much larger and better-equipped Syrian-Greek force in 165 BCE. During its 8-day celebration, Hanukkah is marked with festivities and gift-giving. So, what gifts are given during Hanukkah?
One of the best-known traditions of Hanukkah is the exchange of gifts. Gifts are exchanged on each of the 8 days of Hanukkah, and range from the luxurious to the practical. Common gifts for a Hanukkah celebration include:
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Gelt
Gelt (Yiddish for “money”) is a traditional Hanukkah gift. Most commonly, gelt is given as cash or in small coins. Gelt is meant to symbolize its primary theme: freedom from oppression.
Oil Lamps and Candles
Oil lamps and candles are traditional gifts for the Hanukkah celebration, as the holiday is all about the miracle of a single day’s oil lasting for 8 days. Replica Hanukkah lamps, both electric and candle-based, are often exchanged between family and friends.
Games and Puzzles
Many families give board games, card games, and puzzles to each other during Hanukkah. Hanukkah-themed games and puzzles are especially popular.
Food and Drinks
Treats and drinks, such as Manischewitz wine, chocolate coins, latkes, and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts) are common gifts for a Hanukkah celebration.
Dreidels
A four-sided spinning top called a dreidel is traditionally used in Hanukkah. They often feature Hebrew letters, which stand for the early Hebrew words meaning “a great miracle happened there.” The game played with the dreidel requires coins, candy, or other trinkets, and are often exchanged as a gift.
Jewelry
Appropriate jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and rings, may be given as a Hanukkah gift. Some may feature the Star of David, a menorah, or other symbols of the holiday.
Clothing and Accessories
From hats and scarves to socks and ties, clothing is a popular Hanukkah gift option. Look for items featuring Jewish stars, menorahs, or other symbols of the holiday.
Gift-giving is an important part of Hanukkah. Gifts can range from luxurious to practical, but will always be a meaningful reminder of the festival of lights. A thoughtful gift is a great way to honor the holiday and make the special people in your life feel cherished.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.