What is a Menorah?

The Menorah
Do you know what a Menorah is? Well, it is a candelabrum with seven or nine branches. The nine branched Menorah symbolizes the eight days of Hanukkah and the seven branched Menorah symbolizes the seven days of creation. The middle candle is called the Shamash and is used to light the other candles. The seven branched Menorah was used in the temple of the Lord for the Tabernacle. It was made out of only one big piece of gold. In Exodus 37:17 it states: They made the lanpstand of pure gold and hammered it out, base and shaft; its flowerlike cups, buds and blossoms were of one piece with it. According to the tradition it sat with ten other lamps in the Temple. When the First Temple was demolished, the Menorah was also destroyed. In the second Temple there was only one Menorah. When we were in Jerusalem we saw the new Menorah made for the new Temple. It was a magnificent sight to see! The Menorah does symbolize the Jewish Faith and it is carved on coins, gravestones, decorations, and synagogues. I have really enjoyed learning about the Menorah and its importance because it has helped me understand more about the Jewish people.
Sarah, Queensland