What Does Pey Mean on a Dreidel? Understanding Hebrew Letters and Dreidel Game Rules
A dreidel is a traditional four-sided spinning top used during Hanukkah celebrations, and each side features a Hebrew letter that plays a crucial role in the game. If you’ve ever wondered “What does Pey mean on a dreidel?” you’re asking about one of the most important letters in this beloved Jewish tradition.
What is Pey on a Dreidel?
Pey (פ) is the Hebrew letter that appears on dreidels used in Israel and represents the word “Po” (פה), meaning “here.” This letter is specific to Israeli dreidels and differs from the dreidels commonly found outside of Israel.
The Four Hebrew Letters on Different Dreidels
The letters on a dreidel vary depending on where it’s made and used:
Outside Israel (Diaspora Dreidels):
- Nun (נ) – Nothing happens
- Gimel (ג) – Take all the pot
- Hey (ה) – Take half the pot
- Shin (ש) – Put one in the pot
In Israel:
- Nun (נ) – Nothing happens
- Gimel (ג) – Take all the pot
- Hey (ה) – Take half the pot
- Pey (פ) – Put one in the pot
Why Pey Instead of Shin?
The difference comes from the traditional Hebrew phrase that the letters represent:
- Outside Israel: “Nes Gadol Haya Sham” (נס גדול היה שם) – “A great miracle happened there”
- In Israel: “Nes Gadol Haya Po” (נס גדול היה פה) – “A great miracle happened here”
Since the Hanukkah miracle occurred in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem (modern-day Israel), Israeli dreidels use “Po” (here) instead of “Sham” (there) to acknowledge that the miracle happened in their homeland.
How Pey Functions in the Dreidel Game
When playing dreidel with a Pey:
- Pey (פ) = Put in one: The player must add one game piece (coin, chocolate, etc.) to the central pot
- This is the same function as Shin (ש) on diaspora dreidels
- It’s considered one of the “losing” outcomes for the spinning player
The Historical Significance
The use of Pey on Israeli dreidels reflects a deep connection to the land of Israel and the original Hanukkah story. The miracle commemorated during Hanukkah occurred when the Temple in Jerusalem was rededicated after being reclaimed from Greek-Syrian rule. A small amount of oil that should have lasted only one day miraculously burned for eight days.
Playing Dreidel: Complete Rules
Whether your dreidel has Pey or Shin, the basic game remains the same:
Setup: Each player starts with an equal number of game pieces (coins, candies, or tokens). Everyone puts one piece in the center to create the pot.
Gameplay:
- Players take turns spinning the dreidel
- Based on which letter lands face up, players follow these actions:
- Nun: Do nothing
- Gimel: Take everything in the pot
- Hey: Take half the pot (round up if odd number)
- Pey/Shin: Add one piece to the pot
Winning: The game continues until one player has won all the pieces, or until players decide to stop.
Cultural and Educational Value
Understanding what Pey means on a dreidel provides insight into:
- Hebrew language and alphabet
- Jewish geography and identity
- The difference between diaspora and Israeli Jewish practices
- The historical context of Hanukkah celebrations
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are dreidels with Pey more valuable or rare?
Israeli dreidels with Pey are common in Israel but may be less common outside of Israel, making them interesting collector’s items for some enthusiasts.
Q: Can I use a Pey dreidel outside of Israel?
Absolutely! The game functions identically regardless of whether you have Pey or Shin.
Q: What other Hebrew letters might I see on dreidels?
Traditional dreidels only use these four letters (Nun, Gimel, Hey, and either Pey or Shin), though novelty dreidels might feature different designs.
Conclusion
Pey on a dreidel represents the Hebrew word “Po” meaning “here,” and it’s used on dreidels made in Israel to reflect that the Hanukkah miracle happened in their homeland.
While functionally identical to Shin on diaspora dreidels, Pey carries special significance as a connection to the land where the original Hanukkah story unfolded.
Whether you’re spinning a dreidel with Pey or Shin, you’re participating in a tradition that spans centuries and connects Jewish communities worldwide.
Understanding these small but meaningful differences enriches the Hanukkah experience and provides a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical layers embedded in this simple yet significant game. For those interested in exploring dreidel gameplay in a modern format, Google’s digital Dreidel game offers an excellent way to experience this tradition online while learning about the Hebrew letters and their meanings.
