When it comes to gift-giving, finding the perfect present for your Jewish friends can sometimes be a challenge. Jews have many traditions and values that are important to them, so choosing something meaningful can be difficult. But fear not!
Whether you’re looking for an inexpensive token of appreciation or a more lavish gesture of kindness, these eight thoughtful gift ideas will show just how much you care about your special someone.
Jewish Jewelry
For many of us, especially for the fairer gender, jewelry is part of our everyday wardrobe, so you will never go wrong with such a gift. Especially with Jewish jewelry, which is not only beautiful and unique in appearance, but also brings spiritual happiness and health. For example, the Star of David adds real Jewish values to jewelry, especially a Star of David bracelet makes for a perfect gift that will allow the recipient to wear their faith with pride every day.
- Star Of David Necklace For Women: https://www.amazon.com/Star-Pendant-Necklace-Pointed-Necklaces/dp/B09KZTSV7N/
- Star Of David Necklace For Men: https://www.amazon.com/U7-Plated-Necklace-Twisted-Pendant/dp/B07MTC6LZH/
- Star Of David Bracelet For Women: https://www.amazon.com/MANZHEN-Silver-Jewish-Bracelet-silver/dp/B0788N4GWD/
- Star Of David Bracelet For Men: https://www.amazon.com/555Jewelry-Stainless-Braided-Leather-Bracelet/dp/B08GP9SMVL/
Mezuzah
A mezuzah is a small case that contains a tiny scroll with Hebrew verses from the Torah, which Jews attach to doorposts in their homes. It’s a symbol of faith and protection, so giving one as a gift will be meaningful to any Jewish friend.
You can find mezuzahs that are personalized with the recipient’s name or initials—this special touch will make the gift even more special. Additionally, you can find mezuzahs with special designs and beautiful decorations to match the style of your friend’s home.
Glass Mezuzah Scroll: https://www.amazon.com/Silver-plated-Mezuzah-Judaica-Jerusalem/dp/B07DLWWNX3/
Waterproof Mezuzah Scroll & Case: https://www.amazon.com/Talisman4U-Waterproof-MEZUZAH-Painted-Classic/dp/B07K5XCDPP/
Wine or Sake Set
Jews have a long history of winemaking and sake brewing, so gifting a set of either beverage will be sure to please any friend. Look for authentic products made in Israel, Japan, or elsewhere around the world to give your special someone something truly unique.
As for the type of wine, look for sweet varieties like Riesling, Moscato, and Gewurztraminer. You can buy Kosher cabernet sauvignon at WineWarehouseStore.com, and surprise them with a bottle of their favorite variety, but make sure it’s kosher-certified, which your friend will appreciate even more. For sake, seek out junmai or nigori varieties that are slightly sweet.
Specialty Foods
Jewish cuisine has a long history of different flavors and spices. If you know your friend enjoys cooking at home, consider buying specialty ingredients that they may not already have in their kitchen.
Look for Israeli-style couscous, savory halva, tahini sauce and dressings, chickpea hummus, pickled vegetables like olives and peppers, falafel mix, or anything else that sounds special to you. You can also give them a subscription to an Israeli food box or a pre-made delicacies basket.
On the other hand, if your friend is not a fan of cooking, then you can still give them food-related gifts—like a restaurant gift card to their favorite Jewish deli or a premium box of chocolates.
Monthly Subscription Boxes
Why give one present when you can give one a month for three months to a year? It’ll surely be a gift your friend will remember for a long time.
There’s a few of these online to take the guesswork out of making your own snack box. Israeli Box, KosherBox and Artza Box both have curated boxes that support local and small businesses. Israeli Box even lets you buy a single box with contents they choose or you can choose them yourself.
The Jewish Cookbook
If your friend loves to cook, consider gifting them with the classic Jewish cookbook, “Joy of Kosher” by Jamie Geller. It features more than 500 traditional recipes from around the world, and it is sure to provide some great inspiration. It also includes helpful advice on how to bring kosher cooking into the home, and it even lists suggested books for further reading.
Furthermore, you can invite them to kosher dinner at your home, so they can try out some of their favorite recipes, made by you. Your friend will surely appreciate the gesture!
Joy of Kosher Cookbook by Jamie Geller: https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Kosher-Fresh-Family-Recipes/dp/0062207822/
The Simply Kosher Cookbook by Nina Safar: https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Kosher-Cookbook-Weeknight-Favorites/dp/1641526718/
Sababa: Fresh, Sunny Flavors From My Israeli Kitchen: A Cookbook by Adeena Sussman: https://www.amazon.com/Sababa-Fresh-Flavors-Israeli-Kitchen/dp/0525533451/
Dinner Done by Leah Schapira and Esti Waldman: https://www.amazon.com/Dinner-Done-Between-Carpools-Schapira/dp/1422627381/
Jewish Artwork
Surprise your friend with a piece of artwork that embodies Jewish values or culture. Whether it’s a painting, sculpture, photograph, or something else entirely, make sure it reflects the recipient’s unique taste and traditions.
Jewish art is diverse and includes everything from traditional motifs to modern interpretations of Jewish life. Look for something that will bring a smile to your friend’s face, such as a piece depicting a beloved holiday or a historic event in the Jewish faith.
You can find a plethora of Jewish art online, and you can also look for pieces at local stores or galleries in your area.
Jewish Literature
Finally, reading is a great way to learn more about the Jewish faith, culture, and traditions. Gifting someone a selection of books focused on Jewish themes will be sure to spark joy and appreciation among your friends.
Look for anthologies of Jewish stories, novels, and poetry that explore different aspects of the culture. You can also find books about the Holocaust or other historical events in Jewish life, as well as spiritual texts like the Torah or Talmud.
For a unique twist on book-giving, you can personalize a traditional work of Jewish literature with a special message for your friend written inside the cover.
Gifting your Jewish friends something that reflects their culture, traditions, and values can be a meaningful gesture. Whether it’s a bottle of wine or sake from Israel, specialty foods like tahini sauce or hummus, the classic “Joy of Kosher” cookbook, artwork depicting Jewish life and history, or literature exploring different aspects of the faith—there are plenty of ideas to choose from when shopping for gifts this holiday season.
With thoughtful consideration and careful selection, you can give them something they will cherish forever.
