The menorah – What is it?

TL;DR:

The menorah is a seven-branched candelabrum used in the ancient Jewish temple, symbolizing light and the presence of God. The menorah calls us to be the light of the world, reflecting the true Light of the World—Jesus—to everyone.

what does the bible say?

A menorah is a seven-branched candelabrum used in the ancient Jewish temple. The menorah was first mentioned in Exodus 25:31–39, where its intricate design and construction instructions were detailed by God. It was originally used in the tabernacle during Moses' time, lit every evening and cleaned every morning, and continued to be used through various periods of Israel's history. The menorah remained in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem until its destruction by the Babylonians in the seventh century. In the New Testament, the seven golden lampstands in Revelation represent the seven churches, highlighting the menorah's enduring symbolic significance. Today, the menorah still symbolizes light, hope, and God's presence. It can also inspire believers to be the light of the world as Jesus taught in Matthew 5:14.

from the old testament

The menorah is a lampstand of great importance in the history of the Jews. Its first mention in the Old Testament is found in Exodus 25:31–39.
The menorah was originally built for use within the Jewish tabernacle constructed in the wilderness by the Israelites during the time of Moses. The directions for its construction came directly from God to Moses. According to the Mosaic law, the menorah was lit every evening was to be tended to from evening to morning (Exodus 27:20–21). It burned fresh olive oil and served as part of the worship practices of God's people during this period.
After the Israelites entered the Promised Land, the menorah would have remained in the tabernacle (Joshua 18:1). Levitical priests of this time would have had responsibility for the menorah. It was likely in use throughout the period of the judges of Israel through the time of the last judge, Samuel.
During the time of King Solomon, the Jewish temple was constructed in Jerusalem and the items from the tabernacle were placed into it (1 Kings 7:48–49). This original menorah would have remained in the temple until its destruction by the Babylonians under King Nebuchadnezzar in the seventh century (2 Kings 25:9–10).

from the new testament

In Revelation 1:12–13 and 20, the seven golden lampstands (or menorahs) represent the seven churches to whom the Book of Revelation is addressed.

implications for today

The menorah continues to exist as one of the most important symbols of the Jewish tradition. Versions of it can be found in connection with Hanukkah celebrations that have resulted in its use in many commercial ads. Interestingly, even those devout Jews who are making preparations for a future Jewish temple have constructed a new menorah to match the original. The menorah still endures as an important symbol among the Jews in today's world.

The menorah, with its enduring light, serves as a profound reminder of our calling to be the light of the world. Just as the menorah was meticulously crafted and its light maintained daily (Exodus 25:31–39; 27:20–21), we too are called to cultivate and shine our light consistently. The light of God's presence can never be extinguished, even in the darkest times, and it is this light that we, communally and individually, get to bring to the world. In a world often overshadowed by darkness, the menorah's unwavering glow symbolizes hope, guidance, and the presence of God. Jesus Himself declared, "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14), urging us to let our light shine before others. By embracing this role, we reflect God's love, truth, and righteousness, bringing the light of Christ to a world that so desperately needs Him. Just as the menorah was a central fixture in both the tabernacle and the temple, our light should be a beacon of faith and encouragement in our communities. Inspired by the menorah's resilience and purpose, we seek to follow God’s call to be the light of the world, reflecting the Light of the World, Jesus (John 8:12), to all around us.

understand

The menorah is a seven-branched candelabrum used in the tabernacle and temple.
The menorah burned daily as a symbol of God's eternal presence.
The menorah represents light and hope and reminds us to be the light of the world.

reflect

How do your faith and actions reflect the light of God's presence in your daily life?
How can you reflect God as a light, similar to the menorah?
What practical steps can you take to cultivate and maintain your spiritual light, even during challenging times?

engage

The menorah was made of one piece of hammered gold that weighed one talent. Though the exact weight of a "talent of pure gold" is debatable, first-century Jewish historian Josephus placed the menorah in his time at approximately one hundred pounds (or forty-five kilograms). If the Exodus talent was the same size, the monetary value of the gold would have been extremely high. In any period of history, a talent of gold would have had high value. One commentator suggests that a talent of gold would have been worth twenty years' wages for a common first century laborer.
What are some modern-day practices or symbols that remind us of God's continual presence, much like the menorah did for the Israelites?
How does understanding the historical and spiritual significance of the menorah deepen our appreciation for its symbolism in both Jewish and Christian traditions?