Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday which celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle associated with it. One of the key symbols associated with the celebration of Hanukkah is the menorah, a candelabrum with nine branches that hold nine candles. The shape of the menorah evokes spiritual and physical strength, as well as unity and the focus on the celebration of miracles.
The menorah, or Hanukkiah, is believed to have been the candelabrum that was used for the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The menorah was lit with eight flames and one shamash (helper or servant) candle. The shamash was used to light the other candles. This is the central symbol of the Hanukkah celebration, which is known as the “Festival of Lights”. The menorah is lit each night for eight nights of Hanukkah to symbolize the miracle that occurred when the Temple was re-dedicated. According to the Talmud, the menorah was lit with pure olive oil which had enough oil to last for eight days.
Other symbols associated with the Hanukkah celebration are the dreidel, a four-sided spinning top, and the gelt, chocolate coins given as gifts or exchanged during Hanukkah games. The dreidel is a reminder of the Talmudic legend of a group of Jews who, to avoid detection by the Greek-Syrian rulers, hid their study of the Torah by playing with a spinning top. Finally, the gelt symbolizes the importance of charity, which is an important Jewish value.
The menorah, therefore, is a strong symbol of revolt as well as of miracles, revival, and strength. Together with the dreidel (the game) and the gelt (the coins), it serves to remind us of the importance of faith, charity, and unity. Hanukkah is celebrated through the lighting of the Hanukkiah, which is considered a way to show gratitude to God for the great miracle. So, when it comes to the symbol of Hanukkah, it is the menorah – a nine-branched candelabrum – that is at the center of the holiday.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.