Chanukah
Gelt is one of the most beloved traditional Jewish holiday centerpieces.
Historically, this “Gelt” or “Gold” has been everything from real gold to tiny
personal items. This tradition began perhaps with Maimonides who wrote: “The
Greeks laid their hands upon the possessions of Israel.” The Greeks stole and
defiled the possessions of the Jewish people, and in doing so, they attempted
to impose their culture and possessions upon us. The gold and coins were used
in an ungodly manner to enslave. What Chanukah Gelt celebrates is our freedom
to channel and decide what we do with wealth and to put that wealth (gold) to
spiritual pursuits. This history lecture may explain the practice of giving
“gelt” but how does it explain the chocolate?
One could say that one man's treasure (gold coin) is one
woman's chocolate. Over the last 80 years, Gelt became something far more tasty
and enjoyable – chocolate coins! In
the 1920's, American candy manufacturers introduced the gold foil wrapped
“coins” into the market and a new tradition began. Within a few decades, these
coins became synonymous with Gelt and are a part of most American's Hannukah
traditions. Now each holiday season kids and adults alike smack their lips in
anticipation. Who doesn't love getting their Chanukah Gelt?
There is always a good reason to eat chocolate. During
Chanukah, there are eight good reasons to celebrate chocolate. Make each day of
the holiday a different day of chocolate. Gold coins are traditional, but there
are other kosher chocolates that can be a treasure to be shared. These days
we've moved a little further along to create a more stylized and tastier
version of the traditional gold foil wrapped Gelt. How about dark chocolate
with a hint of chipotle or sea salt? Maybe even a basket of molded chocolates
designed for the holiday?
Be creative. Our store sells multiple holiday gift baskets
for your table or as gifts to be passed along this season.
This Chanukah, bring a little bit of variety to your
treasure by giving baskets that are as colorful and variable as the people in
your life.
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