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The Menorah: An Enduring Symbol Of Faith
Aside from the Star of David, the Menorah is one of the most readily recognized symbols of the Jewish faith. Every Hanukkah, Jewish families around the world display the menorah for eight days, each day lighting another branch in commemoration of the miracle that took place at the rededication of the Holy Temple in the city of Jerusalem in the Second Century BCE.
So what does the menorah symbolize, and how does this symbol play into the fabric of contemporary Jewish life?
To begin with, the menorah used today is more properly referred to as a Hanukiah. It is distinctly different from the one used in the ancient Temple. The original had only seven branches, while the modern version has eight, with a special holder for the shamash, which is the candle used to light the other candles. The eighth branch was added to commemorate the eight days that the oil, only enough for one day, that burned at the time of rededication.
The modern Hanukiah is also different from the ancient light because, according to Jewish religious law, it was forbidden to make a replica of many of the items that existed in the Temple due to their sacred nature. To do so would be to profane the sacred, and this would destroy the Hanukiah as a symbol of the Jewish faith.
So what does this all symbolize to contemporary Jews? In a world without the Temple, why does this ancient symbol endure? The answer might be found in the following:
When Jerusalem was about to fall and the Temple about to be desecrated, one priest, with a hope that the promises of G_d would be fulfilled, had the faith to hide the sacred oil, knowing that one day the Temple would be purified and the sacred lights rekindled. For Jews today, wherever they may be, the Hanukiah should serve to remind them of the blessings extended to them in the Torah; that while they themselves may be hidden now, like the ancient oil, they should also let their faith shine and be a light to others around them.
It should also serve as a reminder that no matter what trial, no matter how great the enemy or how great the loss, the Jewish people have always survived. In spite of inquisitions, assimilation, new cultures, new languages, and new countries, the Jewish faith remains vibrant, and the Hanukiah, along with Hannukah, the festival of dedication, reminds us of this great lesson, which is something we must never forget.
About the Author The mission of Eternal Jewish Family (http://www.eternaljewishfamily.org) is to serve as a support for intermarried couples who commit to live their lives as part of a Jewish family in accordance with traditional Jewish law. Menorah symbolism is an important expression of Jewish faith. Art Gib is a freelance writer.
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