2007-03-21 02:44:51 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Holidays ➔ Hanukkah
Being Jewish, I will help answer this.
Channukah is not about presents. It is about celebrating the miracle about the victory over the Greeks and re-establishing the Temple. There was only enough oil to light the Menorah for 1 day (it would take 8 days to get make new oil).
That one day's oil burned for 8 days/nights. Hence the Miracle of Channukah.
(Side note - There is no Menorah for Channukah - a Menorah has 7 branches and it in the temple. A Channukiah is 8 branched and is special for the Channukah season)
This is why the 8 nights of lights are so special.
The addition of 8 small gifts came many, many years later, and most authorities in Jewish circles believe it is a way to help children deal with gift giving at Christmas.
You are welcome to share in the spirit of the season. I do not think anyone would be offended. Just keep in mind that gifts are traditionally small, and should not be Christmas themed or wrapped in Christmas paper. Select some blue and/or silver papers and ribbons.
For more information see the link below -
2007-03-21 02:58:46 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Of course! Giving presents on Hannuka is a custom in Jewish homes and it does not prohibit any Non-Jew to participate! Take care :-)
2007-03-22 01:16:45 · answer #2 · answered by Motti _Shish 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes of course you can and they will be very much appreciated. Just make it a small gift.There are lots of Jewish people that give Christmas gifts to their non-Jewish friends. And that is so sweet of you !
2007-03-21 09:59:59 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
You can give presents on any day! It's the thought that counts.
2007-03-21 22:26:56 · answer #4 · answered by Knee 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes you can! Just call them "Christmas presents."
2007-03-21 12:38:31 · answer #5 · answered by Anne Marie 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
sure thing, but that is next year, it's passover now.
2007-03-21 09:55:02 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋