Israel, though small in size, is an incredibly colorful country. Our friends travel to the Promised Land of Jerusalem for pilgrimages to the Holy Places, to Tel Aviv to immerse themselves in the whirlwind of nightlife, to the shores of the Red Sea to enjoy the exquisite beach holidays, and to the Dead Sea. Every tourist ponders what to bring back from Israel as a gift for relatives, friends, and colleagues before leaving. In any city in the country – Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Eilat, or Haifa, you will have the chance to buy unique gifts.
Icons
For devout Christians, icons purchased in Jerusalem are considered truly miraculous. Their purchase is a goal for many pilgrims seeking healing for the sick and tourists looking for a present from the Holy Places for home protection and divine blessings.
The most in-demand icons are those depicting the Holy Trinity, Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, Saint Nicholas the Miracle Worker, and other saints who protect success in various life situations. There is a wide selection of household icons for protecting the home and household members: family, name-day, and wedding icons.
For people who love traveling, travel icons with prayers and holy water from the Jordan River make an excellent gift. You can choose icons painted on canvases and wood, set in silver and gold, adorned with semi-precious stones. Simple icons can be purchased for 10-12 shekels, while original handmade icons are priced higher.
Candles
Candles are an important attribute for conducting sacred rituals among Christians. The 33 candles touched by the Holy Fire in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem are considered a connection to the Divine Light and God’s grace. Candles that have touched the Holy Fire are recognized by believers as invaluable gifts, offering the opportunity to feel God’s grace and spiritual strength through the Holy Light.
You can gift your loved ones sets of 33 candles or individual candles. They are lit daily, except on Good Friday, during morning and evening prayers. You can buy thin or thick Jerusalem candles. Sets of 33 sanctified candles, candles with honey, sets of three candles, and individual candles are available. Gift a piece of the Holy Fire to your dear ones.
Menorah
According to biblical legends, the menorah was created by God Himself for the Jewish people. It is a seven-branched candelabrum initially used in the portable Jewish temples during their wanderings in the desert.
Later, the menorah became an integral religious attribute of the Jerusalem Temple, one of the main symbols of Judaism and the Jewish state. Apart from its religious use, the menorah is considered a sacred object among Kabbalists, protecting against evil forces and demons.
This religious attribute is lovingly adorned with plant decor by artisans. You can choose a menorah with enamel or silver plating to suit your artistic taste. Each one will be an exquisite souvenir reminding you of Israel, which can be used for its intended ritual purpose, as a talisman, or as a home decoration.
Holy Anointing Oil (Miro)
The Holy Anointing Oil, known as Miro, is blessed in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. It is made from olive oil, with added fragrances of cinnamon, pomegranate, frankincense, myrrh, and other natural materials. The fragrance of each Holy Anointing Oil is used for specific religious rituals.
Miro with jasmine and rose fragrances is used for God’s anointment. Miro with frankincense expels evil forces. There is a legend that the Magi from the East brought myrrh as a gift for the newborn Jesus Christ. Aromatic oils purchased and blessed in Israel strengthen the body’s protective forces and significantly improve mental well-being.
They have a beneficial effect on the skin’s condition. Sanctified olive oil, Miro, is also used to treat various inflammations by applying it in the form of a cross on the affected area. When giving blessed olive oil Miro as a gift, mention that it should be kept near icons and used to fill the home lamp for cleansing the dwelling. In any city of the Holy Land, you can purchase three types of sanctified Miro separately or in sets.
Kippah
A kippah, or Jewish skullcap, is a traditional head covering worn by Jewish men. Wearing a kippah signifies the supreme authority of God over man. The type of kippah worn also indicates the wearer’s affiliation with one of the existing branches of Judaism. You will find knitted, crocheted, leather kippahs in white and black, kippahs with the Star of David, or with edge patterns.
Wearing a kippah is a traditional custom, but many men do not wear it constantly. However, they always have one with them to wear in appropriate situations. A kippah can be brought as a gift or souvenir, representing an integral part of Jewish culture. When buying a kippah, don’t forget to purchase a special clip for it.
Keffiyeh
A keffiyeh is a traditional men’s headscarf used since ancient times on the Sinai and Arabian Peninsulas. The name originates from the city of Kufah, where it was first worn. The keffiyeh is a square scarf measuring 100×100 cm or a rectangle 100×125 cm, protecting the head and face from the scorching sun, sandstorms, wind, and cold.
The scarf is folded diagonally and tied on the head using traditional regional methods. In some countries, it is secured on the head with an ‘igal, a cord made from camel hair. You will find keffiyehs in several colors: white, white-red, black-white, and multicolored.
They are made from cotton or wool fabric, which quickly dries from sweat and rain, keeping the head dry. Today, the keffiyeh is an integral part of the Israeli army uniform. In Europe, keffiyehs are often used as neck scarves, making this authentic scarf an original present.
Hamsa
The hamsa is a talisman in the shape of a reversed symmetrical hand, with a second thumb in place of the pinky finger. Like on a human hand, you will see lines of fate inscribed on it. Each hamsa has its unique design – fish, eyes, the Star of David for Jews, crescent moons for Muslims. It is believed that these images enhance the protective properties of the amulet.
The blue and green color schemes on the hamsa reflect rays that bring harm to humans. The talisman protects against the evil eye, curses, and evil people, promoting a prosperous and successful life. The name hamsa is interpreted by Muslims as the “Hand of Fatima” – the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, by Jews as the “Hand of Five,” and Christians call it the “Hand of God.”
For home protection against diseases and troubles, hamsa amulets decorated with semi-precious stones are sold and are usually placed near the entrance. You can also buy a souvenir hamsa as a car pendant. A unique gift for a woman would be a silver hamsa pendant with Swarovski crystals paired with a bracelet.
Amulets
At first glance, amulets in the form of earrings, bracelets, rings, and pendants may seem like ordinary silver and gold jewelry. However, they are created as talismans carrying ancient mystical knowledge, symbols of protection from negative influences, attracting luck, and eliminating financial problems.
You will find many high-purity silver amulets and talismans on the market, serving to protect against evil, attract success, abundance, and heal the sick. Their power lies in the immense energy of the Holy Land and prayers. For example, the energy of a Kabbalistic silver amulet for attracting success comes from the prayer engraved in Hebrew, providing the protection of an angel.
It comes with a silver chain. Special monetary gold and silver amulets with sacred engravings of God’s name and blessing phrases for success and abundance from prayers help attract wealth and prosperity. Buying such an authentic item as a gift is a great option.
Bracelet with 72 Names of God
One of the unique jewelry pieces with immense energy is the bracelet engraved with 72 Names of God. On this magical bracelet, made of pure high-quality silver with gold plating, each Name of God carries a sacred message. The miraculous 72 Names of God are derived from three verses (14, 19, and 21) in the Book of Exodus and collectively are recognized as the Great Code of Creation. Each Name of God has its purpose and unique energy.
Understanding the significance of these Names opens the path to a higher level of knowledge and positive change in the life of the bracelet’s owner. Additionally, the bracelet, being an exquisite accessory for any outfit, protects against negativity in public places. These Kabbalistic talismans are notable for their original design and are securely fastened on the wrist with a special clasp. Any woman would be delighted with such an original souvenir.
Red String Against the Evil Eye
The red string, sanctified at the tomb of Rachel, the matriarch, is considered one of the most potent protective amulets. Tied on the left wrist with seven knots, it serves as a powerful defense against all kinds of negativity: curses, evil eye, illnesses, and negative energy. The red string should be tied by someone wishing you well. When the string suddenly breaks, it means that danger was near, but was averted thanks to the protective power.
Magical red strings are made of wool. They are sold in sets of 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 strings. Today, this magical amulet has gained vast popularity worldwide due to the increased interest of celebrities in practical Kabbalah and the fashion for such talismans. It will make an authentic gift for relatives, friends, and colleagues.
Cosmetics
The fame of Israeli cosmetics has long crossed the country’s borders. Thanks to the unique properties of Dead Sea salts, aromatic oils, and biblical plants used in its production, its application achieves remarkable effects. The best cosmetic brands include Ahava, Ein Gedi, Sea of SPA, DSM, Aroma.
Their natural products are of exceptional quality. The cosmetics are made using natural essential oils of citrus fruits, biologically active seaweed, and extracts from medicinal plants. A highlight of DSM’s Dead Sea cosmetics is its black caviar series for facial, body, and hair care for women, men, and children. Aroma offers exclusive therapeutic cosmetics for face, body, and hair, based on the scents of vanilla, lavender, coconut, and grape seeds.
These products are effective in treating skin diseases, hair loss, and allergies. As souvenirs, you can purchase Dead Sea salts and mud for home spa treatments, various therapeutic mud-mineral shampoos, and soaps.
Ein Gedi products have gained popularity for the quality of their Gold and Snow White collections, containing antioxidants and a complex of vitamins. Cosmetics make an excellent gift for both women and men.
Hummus
Hummus is the name of a traditional snack made from pureed chickpeas, to which olive oil, sesame paste, paprika, a little lemon juice, and garlic are added. Thanks to its composition, hummus is rich in plant protein, vitamins, and trace elements. Because of its nutritional value, hummus is an indispensable product during fasting.
It is eaten as a sandwich spread, with chips, and nuts. Hummus is sold packaged in plastic containers of 500 grams. In Russia, this product is not widespread, so your relatives and acquaintances will find it interesting to try hummus.
When traveling, keep in mind that this product spoils quickly, so it should be purchased just before leaving the country. When buying hummus, pay attention to the production date on the packaging. The shelf life of this product is one month.
Wine
Israeli wine is rarely found in Europe, making it an excellent present that allows the recipient to taste the gifts of the Holy Land. More than 150 wineries in the country compete to produce unique grape and fruit wines.
Wine brands like Flam Winery, Sas Winery, Yatir Winery, and Barkan, engaged in producing kosher wine, are respected worldwide. You should bring back the wines that you enjoyed as presents: King David Wine, Rimon Pomegranate Wine, and Currant Wine. Premium-class wine brands like Yarden Katzrin, which are purely grape wines with apple, pear, lemon bouquets, hints of tropical fruits, and various spices, have an exquisite taste.
The taste of Sabra series liqueurs made from kumquats soaked in three-year-old brandy will delight any wine connoisseur. Sabra liqueurs have won three gold medals at the London Wine Competition. Sabra liqueur is added to cocktails and coffee, giving them a unique flavor.
Dates and Date Honey
Dates from the Holy Land are an excellent gift for everyone. Large and juicy varieties are grown here, sold both in their natural form and pitted, filled with nuts.
When buying dates, it is best to choose the Deglet Nour and Medjool varieties, which improve bone, teeth, intestine, skin, and heart health. They lower cholesterol levels in the blood and help restore potency. Dates are sold in 500-gram packages. Additionally, you can delight your relatives with an exotic sweet gift – natural date honey.
It is made from concentrated date syrup (silan), with all the beneficial properties of dates. Date honey has become a wonderful sugar alternative. Tourists should know that natural honey is made by pressing juice from ripe dates without adding sugar. Such honey is usually sold in 300-gram jars.
Halva
In Israel, you will be amazed by the variety of halva. This local Middle Eastern sweet is quite different from Russian halva, being more delicate and less sweet. Classic Tahini halva is made from ground sesame seeds without adding sugar.
Thanks to the beneficial substances in sesame, this halva has numerous healing properties and helps remove toxins from the body. It is sold in 275-gram packages containing 11 bars or in 400-gram packages. Nut halva with added sesame and peanut halva are also popular here.
For gourmets, you can bring halva varieties not found in Russia: chocolate, lemon, pear, as well as exotic flavors like mango, pepper, and whiskey. The more unusual the halva tastes, the more original your gift will be.
Spices
Israeli spices and herbs grown in the Judean Desert, away from industrial enterprises, retain all their beneficial properties. You will find at least 40 types of spices and seasonings on the market.
Pay attention to the main Eastern seasoning Baharat, consisting of a spice mix – cloves, cinnamon, black and allspice. Sometimes it is sold with added nutmeg, cardamom, anise, and coriander seeds. The spice cumin or zira, tasting like parsley and coriander, is sold as seeds or powder.
The spice palette will undoubtedly include coriander in seeds and ground form, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, black, white, and allspice. You will be surprised by the seasoning called Sumac, with a purple-red color and sour taste. The green seasoning Za’atar will captivate you with its juiciness, aroma, and unique flavor. The spices you bring back, added to dishes daily, will remind you of your stay in the Holy Land for a long time, adding health benefits.
Baby Food “Materna”
The company “Materna” is a leader in producing baby food in Israel. The milk formulas and baby food of the “Materna” brand are well-known for feeding children from 0 to 12 months and from 1 to 6 years. The advantage of “Materna” milk formulas is their maximum closeness to breast milk. They contain all the necessary substances for healthy child development, proper food absorption, and strong immunity.
For babies aged 0 to 6 months, you can buy branded pure milk and milk-plant formulas, for babies aged 6 to 12 months, nutritious vegetable and fruit formulas, and dry milk porridges. For children aged 1 to 3 years, rice cookies and dry non-dairy porridges: corn, rice, and oat, suitable for feeding children up to 6 years, are beneficial. “Materna” baby food will be a valuable gift for families with young children.
Kosher Products
In Israel, great importance is given to kosher products grown in environmentally clean areas without using fertilizers and chemicals. These products are certified, distinguished by their excellent natural taste and quality. Here’s what you can bring back from the range of kosher products. You will find a wide selection of quality olive oil, olives, aromatic spices, and vegetable pastes.
Among kosher products, there are many types of honey obtained from the country’s best apiaries, as well as ginger and date honey. To this list, add healthy baby food, chocolate, many types of confectionery and candied exotic fruits, date paste. Wonderful gifts will be various types of tea with fruit additives, aromatic coffee, and healthy cocoa.
Ceramic Products
Beautiful ceramic products make excellent memorable souvenirs from the Holy Land. You will be amazed by the variety of types and paintings in the Armenian Quarter shops in Jerusalem. You will find numerous tiles, vases, planters, and dishes in a wide assortment of plates, jugs, cups, teapots, salad bowls, painted in traditional blue-white tones and bright colors.
Decorative plates with biblical scenes, the country’s landmarks, and symbols of Jesus Christ in the form of fish are popular with tourists. Handmade ceramic jewelry – pendants and earrings in the shape of hamsa and the Star of David, necklaces, and beads will undoubtedly interest you. Ceramic products can be purchased in shops and markets outside the Armenian Quarter.
National Games
Original game sets are enjoyed by both children and adults. An authentic game popular with the local population is Makot. The game set includes a rubber ball with two rackets. The game can be called an analogue of badminton or ping-pong, but it is played without a net and a tennis table. Makot can be played anywhere, but most often adults and children play it during beach holidays. The game set can be purchased in any supermarket.
A good gift for a child would be themed biblical construction sets with David’s Tower, Solomon’s Temple, or Noah’s Ark. They serve intellectual development and construction skills. Souvenir chess and backgammon sets are often brought back from the country as gifts. The beautiful packaging, exquisite tortoiseshell, marble, and ceramic pieces with national color look luxurious and make a great gift for people who enjoy intellectual games.
Where to Stay: Best All-Inclusive Hotels in Israel
