▷ What Kind Of Gifts Are Given On Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is a special Jewish holiday that celebrates the Maccabi victory over the forces of antiquity and not only serves as a religious holiday for the Jews, but also as a cultural and family-oriented celebration. A key part of Hanukkah is exchanging gifts. So what kind of gifts are given on Hanukkah?

Hanukkah gifts come in all shapes and sizes, but usually, the receiver of the gift will be a close friend or family member. Gifts are usually symbolic and meaningful, symbolizing the gift of light and of life itself. Popular gifts to give on Hanukkah include coins, candies, and small toys. Coins usually have the Star of David or a menorah on them, and are given as a reminder of abundance. Candies are thought to bring luck and joy to the recipient, while toys usually remind the receiver of the childhood joys of Hanukkah – much like the small toy of a dreidel.

Charitable Gifts

Hanukkah is also an opportunity to give or donate to a charitable cause, an act that many Jews take part in to show their support and appreciation for the community. These charitable acts can range from donating to a charity or giving a gift that will benefit an organization or a person in need. Gifts such as clothing and food can be given to those within the community who need it. Whether the donation is to a larger organization or to a small charity, giving on Hanukkah is a powerful and good deed done in the eyes of Judaism.

Gift Exchange

Hanukkah is also an excellent time to participate in a “gift exchange.” This is when all the members of a family or a group exchange gifts. This can be played in two ways: a Secret Santa, in which everyone is given someone else in the group to buy for, or a White Elephant Game, where everyone draws a number and chooses a gift in turn. These can be lots of fun and an excellent way to bring the family or group together in the spirit of Hanukkah.

Giving of Time

Gifting of time is one of the most generous acts of appreciation for the holiday of Hanukkah. Often times, giving a family member or friend time and a thoughtful gift such as cooking a meal or offering to take them out to dinner in their honor can be even a more meaningful experience. This is a process which can show the undeniable power of kindness over material things.

In the end, Hanukkah gifts come in all shapes and sizes and can range from coins and candies to charitable contributions and generous gifts of time. Hanukkah is a time of meaningful and thoughtful exchanges between family and friends and is best celebrated through acts of kindness and reciprocity.

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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.