Facts about Menorah
Many synagogues display either a menorah or an artistic representation of a menorah.
The menorah (Hebrew: ?????) is a sacred candelabrum used in Jewish ritual practice, and one of the oldest symbols of the Jewish people.
Later, a special type of Menorah, known as a Chanukkiyah or Hanukiah with nine branches, became associated with the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.
First, it has been suggested that the menorah originated as the tree of life symbolizing the mother goddess Asherah.
The menorah probably remained in the Temple of Peace in Rome until the city was sacked by the Vandals in 455 C.E., and was brought to their capital, Carthage.
According to the Torah, God revealed the design for the menorah to Moses (Exodus 25: 31-40).
A third theory suggests that the menorah resembles an indigenous plant grown in Israel called the moriah.
The original seven branched menorah symbolized the burning bush as seen by Moses on Mount Sinai, and thus represented the light of God.
According to some readings, Maimonides stated that the menorah in the Temple had straight branches, not rounded as is often depicted.
Following the construction of the Temple of Jerusalem, the golden seven-branched menorah was placed in the Temple and kept continually lit.
The nine branched Menorah has become closely associated with the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.
Called the ner tamid, this lamp represents the continually lit menorah used in Temple times.
The menorah continues to play an important role in modern Judaism both as a symbol of God's boundless light, and as a prominent feature in the ritual practices of Hanukkah.
The menorah was forged from a single piece of gold with seven branches each having a lamp at the end to be used for burning olive oil.
Later, a special type of Menorah, known as a Chanukkiyah or Hanukiah with nine branches, became associated with the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.
On the Chanukah menorah, eight of the arms are for the candles which represent the 8 miracle days, and the ninth arm is for the candle used to light the others. ... Only the 9 branch menorah can be used for Chanukah. Also, please note: Sometimes the 9th or "shamash" arm is removable.