A menorah is a seven-branched candlestick found in the synagogue.
The menorah in the tabernacle
The menorah, a seven-branched candle holder, is an ancient symbol of Judaism.
The design for a golden menorah was originally given to Moses by God for use in the tabernacle.
“Make a lampstand of pure gold… six branches are to extend from the sides of the lampstand.” (Exodus 25)
The menorah in the temple
Menorahs were later used in the Temple in Jerusalem until the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE by the Romans, when the temple menorah was taken back to Rome as a war trophy.
“And he made the lampstand of pure gold… according to the pattern that the Lord had shown Moses.” (2 Chronicles 4)
The menorah in synagogues
From that point in history, images of the menorah were used more and more in Jewish worship - especially as decorations in synagogues. This became especially important as the Jews were forced to leave their ancestral homeland and settle in other parts of the world. (This is referred to the Jewish Diaspora.)
Symbolism
Today, the menorah is an well known Jewish symbol, although it is believed to symbolise different events:
The lamps represent the seven days of creation,
The central light represents the enlightenment that comes from God
The lights remind Jews of their role to be “a light to the nations” (Isaiah 42), bringing God’s truth and justice to the world.
No key terms found.
🔗 Related Resources:
No resources for Level: GCSE