The defining characteristic of a Hanukkah menorah is eight lights in a row, with a ninth lamp off to the side or above, separated from the other eight. The ninth lamp is called a shamash, a “servator,” and it symbolically differentiates the eight holy flames from other, mundane light sources.

Why does the menorah have 9 candles instead of 7?

The defining characteristic of a Hanukkah menorah is eight lights in a row, with a ninth lamp off to the side or above, separated from the other eight. The ninth lamp is called a shamash, a “servator,” and it symbolically differentiates the eight holy flames from other, mundane light sources.

What does the 7 branch menorah mean?

The seven lamps allude to the branches of human knowledge, represented by the six lamps inclined inwards towards, and symbolically guided by, the light of God represented by the central lamp. The menorah also symbolizes the creation in seven days, with the center light representing the Sabbath.

What is a 7 candle menorah for?

A menorah, which has only seven candleholders, was the lamp used in the ancient holy temple in Jerusalem — now a symbol of Judaism and an emblem of Israel. A Hanukkiah, however, has nine candlesticks — one for each night of Hanukkah and an extra one to light the others.

What color candles go in a menorah?

Candles in a menorah are most commonly white, but any color can be used. Hanukkah lasts for eight days, and each night one lit candle is added to the menorah.

How do you pronounce Hanukkiyah?

  1. Phonetic spelling of hanukkiah. ha-nukkiah. hanukki-ah.
  2. Meanings for hanukkiah. A candelabrum used for the celebration of Hanukkah. It has 8 branches and a shamash. Also known as a menorah.
  3. Examples of in a sentence. The Hanukkiah (Hanukkah Menorah)

Is the menorah in the Bible?

The Hebrew word menorah means “lampstand.” The King James Version of the Bible translates it as “candlestick.” The original menorah was made for the tabernacle in the wilderness. It was made of solid gold and placed opposite the table of shewbread (see Exodus 25:31–37; 37:17–24).

What is the 7 branched candlestick?

menorah
The seven-branched menorah was originally found in the wilderness sanctuary and then later in the Temple in Jerusalem and was a popular motif of religious art in antiquity. An eight-branched menorah modeled after the Temple menorah is used by Jews in rites during the eight-day festival of Hanukkah.

Why are there 7 candles at Christmas?

It holds seven candles. Contrary to popular belief the candle holder was always associated with Christmas. The light symbolizes the longing of the miners who didn’t see the daylight in winter for weeks sometimes due to their long working hours below the surface.

What are the 3 traditional colors for Hanukkah?

With the city festooned in red and green for the holiday season, it seemed like an appropriate time to wonder how these colors came to be associated with Christmas, how blue and white became the official colors of Hanukkah, and what symbolism black, green, and red have during Kwanzaa.

How do you light the menorah in 2021?

On the first night of Hanukkah, place a candle in the holder on the far right, and light it with the shamash. Then put the shamash back in its spot (leaving it lit). On the second night, light the candle second from the right, then the candle on the far right, and replace the lit shamash.

What colors do menorahs come in?

Although most of the Menorahs are a one tone color – gold, yellow or silver we have not forgotten those who are looking for a dash of color. Look for the Menorah with an oval blue stone that forms a pretty centerpiece on the main branch.

What is the significance of the 7 branch menorah?

7 Branch Menorah. The seven branch menorah, or candelabrum, is one of the oldest symbols of Judaism. It is written that God himself revealed the design for the menorah. This seven branch menorah stood in the Tabernacle, and subsequently in the Holy Temple.

Why is the Menorah so important to Judaism?

Today the menorah has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Judaism and the Jewish People, so much so that it is even represented on the emblem of the modern State of Israel. We have a lovely selection of replica seven branched menorahs for sale.