Gelt, also known as chocolate coins, play an important role in the celebration of Hanukkah. The giving of gelt is a tradition that dates back centuries and has become an integral part of the holiday. Gelt is a reminder of the courage and commitment of the Maccabees and a sign of joyous celebration. It is also a physical representation of the miracles that are celebrated during this festive time of year.
What Is Gelt?
Gelt is a special form of money used during the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah. It comes in the form of coins but is not actually currency; rather it is a form of chocolate candy shaped like coins and wrapped in foil. The coins usually come in denominations of 5, 10, or 25 pieces. The foil wrapping resembles gold coins which makes them particularly attractive to children, who receive them as a reward during the holiday.
Why Is Gelt Significant?
Gelt has become an integral part of the celebration of Hanukkah, as a reminder of the Maccabees who fought so bravely against the Syrian-Greek oppressors. According to Jewish tradition, when Judah Maccabee and his small army succeeded in liberating Jerusalem from the Greeks, they found only enough oil to light the temple menorah for one day. Remarkably, the small flask of oil lasted for 8 days, until more oil could be procured; a miracle commemorated each year in the lighting of the menorah. Gelt symbolizes the coins of the Maccabees and their victorious battle against the oppressors.
Gelt is also a way for families to give their children a sense of joy and pride in the story of Hanukkah. Every night of Hanukkah, children are invited to take part in the ritual of the menorah lighting, and after doing so, are rewarded with gelt that they may keep or give away as gifts. Gelt is a reminder of the miracles and of the courage and resilience of the Maccabees, and by giving coins to children, adults can reinforce the positive feelings associated with the holiday.
Using Gelt Today
Today, gelt is used not only in religious ceremonies, but also as gambling pieces in the traditional game of dreidel. When playing dreidel, players use a small spinning top with four letters in Hebrew inscribed on each side. The letters make up the acronym which stands for: “A great miracle happened here.” Players are asked to contribute several pieces of gelt and the goal is to collect as many coins as possible. This game is an important part of many Hanukkah celebrations today.
Gelt is also used to decorate and add a special touch to homes during Hanukkah. Stringed garlands and wreaths made from foil-wrapped coins adorn the walls and windows, and special plates may be adorned with gelt coins as part of the centerpiece. Decorating with gelt not only brings a festive atmosphere to the home, but also helps to reinforce the powerful stories associated with the holiday.
Gelt has become an integral part of the celebration of Hanukkah, representing not only the Maccabees’ courageous battle against tyranny, but also a physical representation of the miracles associated with the holiday. Gelt is used in Hanukkah celebrations today to help bring the stories of heroism to life for children and adults alike. Through its joyous symbolism, gelt helps to ensure that the stories of courage and commitment passed down through generations remain alive and are celebrated today.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.