Question: Do Jews say thank you after receiving a Purim Food Basket - Shlach Manos?
There is a widespread custom not to thank for Shlach Manos (Purim food baskets). The source seems to be the Sefer Leket Yosher. Is there any other source for this custom? And what could be the reason for it? After all we do say Yasher Koach to the Kohen for his priestly blessings.
Answer: As to the custom of saying Yasher Koach to Kohanim (source: Mishna Berura 128:60) - it is because the blessing is not personalized like the Mishloach Manot (Purim food baskets). Thus, there is no room for error, even if one is thankful, in thinking that the blessing was a personal gift. With Mishloach Manot, there is room for error, that the gift is specially for him. Thus, there is the custom to refrain from thanking, because it is not a regular gift, it is done because of the Mitzva. (see Otzar Ta'amei Minhagim by R' S.P. Gelbard, VI 7:20)
With blessings from Jerusalem,
Rabbi Shraga Simmons
