Anonymous Mishloach Manot

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Anonymous Mishloach Manot

The Trumat Hadeshen writes that the purpose of mishloach manot is to ensure that even those who cannot afford food for their Purim meal will receive gifts of food to use for the meal.

However, the Manot HaLevi is of the opinion that the purpose of this mitzva is to spread goodwill, love, and friendship between Jews.

Practical halacha follows this second stance. Therefore, the Ktav Sofer teaches that if one gives mishloach manot anonymously, he does not fulfill the obligation, because while the recipient will have food for his meal, the goal of increasing friendship and peace will not be achieved with an anonymous gift.