What Is a Menorah?

A menorah is a symbol of the faith, dedication and perseverance of the Jewish people. Since ancient times, it has lit the way for the Jews through times of profound darkness and times of joy and celebration. While it is commonly associated with Hanukkah by Jews and Gentiles alike, and it has a presence of the coat of arms of the modern state of Israel, it is much more than that.

Origins of the menorah

The Book of Exodus describes it as an ancient golden lampstand that Moses used in the portable sanctuary that he set up when the Jews were wandering in the deserts; it later came into use in the Temple of Jerusalem, where they used olive oil to light it. In Exodus 25:31-32, God told Moses to make this lampstand of gold, with a specific shape featuring three branches on each side.

Menorah or hanukkiah

Many gentiles and, surprisingly, many Jews, use the words "menorah" and "hanukkiah" interchangeably, but there is a difference between them. A hanukkiah has nine slots; four on each side with a slot for a candle to light the others in the middle; this middle candle is called a shamash. The other eight candle slots represent the eight nights of Hanukkah; on the first night, Jews light only one candle with the shamash and add another candle for each night of Hanukkah. It lasts eight nights to dedicate the restoration of the Temple of Jerusalem; after the Maccabees drove the Syrians out of Judea, they believed they only had enough oil to light the lamp for one night, but, to their surprise, it lasted eight nights. To them, this was a miracle.

Modern menorahs

Many manufacturers still make menorahs in the traditional shape, out of gold, silver, brass or other metals. However, there are a number of artisans who hand-craft menorahs and hanukkiahs out of these materials, as well as glass, clay and ceramics in traditional and modern designs. In addition, many Hebrew schools have menorah making as an arts and crafts project for kids.

The menorah remains a symbol of Jewish faith and identity that originated from the time of Moses and continues into the present day. As long as the Jewish people continue to survive, the menorah is going to remain a symbol of its values.