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Why do Jews give money for Chanukah (חנוכה) while others give presents? The distinction reflects two opposing philosophies: Esav's "I have much" treats money as personal reward, while Yaakov's "I have everything" sees it as divine responsibility. Giving children money teaches judgment and accountability, while presents simply convey affection without developing character.
Rabbi Zweig begins with Koheles 5:12, which describes wealth that becomes harmful to its owner, causing arrogance as exemplified by Korach. He notes that such a person's children "will have nothing" - meaning no merit from their father's charity, despite him having given charity. This introduces the central theme of how one's attitude toward money affects both the giver and recipient. The shiur draws fascinating parallels between Jewish Chanukah (חנוכה) customs and Christmas, noting how the non-Jewish world adopted many aspects of the Chanukah celebration - lighting lights outside, gift-giving, and even the timing (25th of the month). However, there's a crucial difference: Jews traditionally give Chanukah gelt (money) rather than presents.
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Koheles 5:12
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