Q. Thank you so much for your fast response …On Q. 688, (Chanuka Gelt means a Velt). Why is it not prohibited to give Chanukkah gelt or presents, since after all it is a Chok Hoamim tradition during their holiday?
A. Avnei Yashfe (O.H. 129: 2) addresses this question and he asserts that the prohibition of "not following their edicts" applies, as the Maharik (88) and Remah (Y.D. 178:1) maintain, only to statutes that don't have a valid reason or benefit. As amply explained in answer 688 there are many reasons for Chanuka Gelt. The main one being that Chanuka is a time for joy and happiness, so we also share it with the young ones.
Although that is true of Chanuka gelt, there is no early-established tradition to give gifts. One may argue that the proper present will bestow greater joy and happiness to a child than a few coins. After all a gift is Shove Kesef, and is therefore tantamount to money and should be permitted.
Horav Shlomo Miller's Shlit"a opinion is that it is better to give money to comply with the minhag, but presents are also permitted.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit"a
Important Numbers
