The gifts of Hanukkah – the source

1. In the beginning, the custom was for the poor to ask for Tsedaka during the days of Hanukkah, and from there the habit of giving money on Hanukkah arose. Very often, by giving this money, we will fulfill the Mitzvah of Tzedakah. By the way, it is very important to give Tsedaká during the days of Hanukkah and it is a great merit to do so. The level of this act during these days is much greater than on other days of the year. These days are virtuous for bringing atonement to the soul by giving Tzedakah.
2. The Greeks, during the time of the Hasmoneans, decreed laws against three pillars that sustain the world: the Torah, Prayer (the service before Hashem), and charity. That is why, during Hanukkah, we must strengthen ourselves in the study of the Torah, in prayer, and in the giving of Tzedakah.
3. Some say that, in the beginning, the custom was to support those who studied the Torah, which later gave rise to the tradition of giving money on Hanukkah. The leaders of the Yeshivot traveled from city to city to raise funds for Torah institutions, as the miracle occurred thanks to those who were dedicated to the study of the Torah. To remember this miracle, the study of the Torah was supported. Recently, it is more the children who have gotten used to asking for money, and the Rabanim do not travel as much during this period so as not to diminish the honor of the Torah. It is, however, important to know that this custom originates from the desire to strengthen the institutions of the Torah.

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