How to Spin the Dreidel on Google

The Dreidel is a traditional Jewish toy used in a popular game of chance during the Hanukkah holiday, which usually takes place in December. It is a four-sided pyramid-shaped spinning top, each side of which is engraved with a Hebrew letter: Nun (נ), Gimel (ג), Hei (ה), and Shin (ש).

The Dreidel game is not only entertaining but also has deep cultural significance, helping the younger generation understand Jewish history and traditions. If you want to try this game, check out the instructions below and learn about the meaning of the game.

How to play Dreidel

The Dreidel game is a simple game, suitable for all ages and can be played with any number of participants. Here are detailed instructions on how to play:

Play online

1. Step 1: Just search for the keyword "Dreidel" on Google Search (1) in applications and browsers such as Chrome , Safari , Google and you can play the Dreidel spinner.
2. Step 2: After entering the keyword, the spinner will automatically spin and stop on one side. If you want to continue playing, select Spin again (2) to spin the Dreidel spinner again.

Play offline

Prepare the necessary items as required below, including:

1. Items needed: A Dreidel spinning top and items to bet, such as coins, nuts, candies, or chocolate gelt (chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil).
2. Number of items: Each player starts with an equal number of items, usually 10 to 15.
3. Determining the first turn: Each player spins the top once. The person with the highest result (Nun > Gimel > Hei > Shin) goes first. If there is a tie, the tied players spin again.

Rules of the Game

1. Start the round: Each player places an item into the center "pot".
2. Spin the Spinner: Players take turns spinning the spinner and performing actions based on the letter that appears:
3. Nun (נ): Do nothing, turn passes to next person.
4. Gimel (ג): Take all the items in the pot. Then each player (including the one who just spun) places a new item in the pot.
5. Hei (ה): Take half of the items in the pot. If the number of items is odd, round up (eg: 7 items then take 4).
6. Shin (ש): Place an item into the pot.
7. Continue the game: Turns continue clockwise. If a player has no more items to put in the pot when needed (after another player's Shin or Gimel), they are out.
8. End of Game: The game ends when one player collects all the items or when everyone agrees to stop. The person with the most items is usually considered the winner.

Variant

To speed up the game, some groups increase the number of items placed in the pot when Shin is encountered or after Gimel (e.g. 2 or 3 items instead of 1). Some families may also add their own rules, such as redistributing items to children to ensure everyone has fun.

History of the Dreidel Game

The Dreidel has its historical roots in the period of Jewish persecution under the Seleucid king Antiochus IV (175 BC). At that time, Torah study and religious practice were forbidden, and Jews had to study secretly in remote areas. According to tradition, when Greek soldiers approached, they would hide the Torah and pretend to play with spinning tops to hide their learning activities. Thus, the Dreidel became a symbol of resilience and protection of culture.

However, historical research suggests that the Dreidel may have originated from a European gambling toy called the teetotum, which was popular in Ireland and England during the Middle Ages. The teetotum was also a four-sided spinning top with symbols indicating the actions in the game.

When adopted by Jews, the symbols were replaced with Hebrew letters, and their meanings were linked to Yiddish words: Nun (nisht - not), Gimel (gantz - whole), Hei (halb - half), and Shin (shtel - to put in). Later, the letters were reinterpreted to fit the Hanukkah story, giving them a deeper religious meaning.

Meaning and Symbolism of Dreidel

The letters on the Dreidel not only determine the rules of the game, but also carry deep religious significance.

The phrase 'Nes Gadol Haya Sham' recalls the miracle of Hanukkah: when the Maccabees recaptured the Temple in Jerusalem, they found only one jar of oil, enough to light the menorah for one day, but the oil burned continuously for eight days. This is the central miracle of Hanukkah, and the Dreidel game helps pass the story on to future generations.

Additionally, the Dreidel symbolizes the Jewish people's perseverance in defending their faith and culture in the face of persecution. Playing Dreidel during Hanukkah is a way for families to connect, share joy, and educate children about their history.

Variations and modern versions

Although the traditional rules of the game remain popular, some variations have emerged to make the game more interesting, especially for adults. For example:

1. Speed ​​Dreidel: A proposed version to speed up the game, reducing waiting time by increasing the number of items placed in the pot.
2. Texas Hold'em Dreidel: Combines Dreidel with poker, where players bet based on the outcome of the spin, adding elements of strategy and bluffing.
3. Digital Game: Google offers a digital version of Dreidel, where players can spin the spinner online by searching for "play dreidel" (Google Dreidel).

These variations help the game appeal to a wide audience, from children to adults, and keep the tradition fresh.

Cultural influence

The Dreidel game is not only a recreational activity but also an important part of Jewish culture. In families, it provides an opportunity for everyone to gather, share the Hanukkah story and strengthen family bonds. For children, Dreidel is an educational tool, helping them learn about history, the Hebrew language and cultural values ​​through play.

Outside of the Jewish community, the dreidel has become a global symbol of Hanukkah, appearing in interfaith events and educational programs to showcase Jewish culture. It is also used in schools to teach about religious diversity and history.

The Dreidel is a treasured tradition that combines fun, history, and religious significance. From its origins as a tool for hiding Torah learning to a symbol of the miracle of Hanukkah, the Dreidel has transcended time to become an integral part of the Festival of Lights. Whether played in the traditional way or with modern variations, the Dreidel continues to bring joy and lessons to every generation.

Kareem Winters

Update 12 June 2025