Menorah is a Hebrew word meaning "candelabrum." In relation to Hanukkah, it refers to the nine-branched ceremonial lamp in which the Hanukkah candles are placed and then blessed.

The menorah originated as a religious symbol in biblical times. The Torah records how the great artist Bezalel fashioned a seven-branched menorah for the desert tabernacle in fulfillment of a Divine commandment (Exodus 25:31-40; 37:17-24). Such a seven-branched menorah adorned the Temple in Jerusalem and was carried away by the Roman legions at the time of its destruction in 70 C.E. While the Roman Empire has long since vanished, a seven-branched menorah stands before the Knesset building in Israel, yet another tangible reminder of the indestructibility of the Jewish people.

The nine-branched Hanukkah menorah was a modification of the biblical model and seems to have originated in the first century C.E. It had eight branches, one for each day of the holiday, and a ninth branch for the shamash or “servant” light.

In ancient times, oil was used in the menorah. Over time, candles were substituted for the oil. Interestingly, some scholars believe that the use of small candles for the menorah was a deliberate choice, designed to distinguish Hanukkah lights from Christian votive candles. Except in times of religious persecution, the menorah was placed outside the front door or, as is the custom today, displayed in the window of every Jewish home.

Excerpt from The Jewish Home. Used with permission.