The meaning of the menorah – Are a prominent symbol of Chanukah, are seven-branched candelabras that have been used in Jewish worship since ancient times. #Menorah
The meaning of the menorah
Menorahs are a prominent symbol of Chanukah (or spelled Hanukkah), are seven-branched candelabras that have been used in Jewish worship since ancient times.
The seven branches refer to the seven days of creation. The menorah is the traditional symbol of Judaism and the emblem of the state of Israel. For Chanukah, a nine-branched candelabra called a hanukkiah is used, but the word “menorah” has become interchangeable. The Chanukah menorah consists of nine candles.
The center and ninth candle are referred to as the Shamash. It is used to light all the other candles. The Shamash is raised above the other candles to make it kosher. The lighting of the menorah over the eight days of Chanukah symbolizes the miracle that occurred during the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean revolt. The sacred oil, of which there was only enough for one day’s lighting, miraculously lasted for eight days.
Described in the Bible as the seven-lamp ancient Hebrew lampstand made of pure gold and used in the portable sanctuary set up by Moses in the wilderness and later in the Temple in Jerusalem. Fresh olive oil was burned daily to light its lamps. (WikiPedia)
Did you know Kwanzaa lights candles too?
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