עברית
Halachot and Customs
Is There a Mitzvah to Buy a Gift for One's Wife for the Holiday?
Question
Is there a mitzvah to buy a gift for one's wife for the holiday? If so, must it be jewelry, or is clothing acceptable as well?
My husband finds it difficult to buy jewelry because it is expensive for him, and he would prefer that I buy clothing instead. Is that alright?
In general, if I purchase something myself, has my husband fulfilled his obligation?
Answer
Festivals are times of joy,
There is indeed a mitzvah, and clothing is acceptable. As stated in the Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 669:2), a person is obligated to be happy and in good spirits during the festival, he, his wife, and his children, along with those who accompany them. How do we bring them joy? For the children, one gives them nuts and seeds, and for the women, one buys them clothing and jewelry according to his means.
If your husband gave you money to buy something for the holiday and you made the purchase yourself, he has fulfilled his obligation.
Best wishes,
Hillel Meirs
