The
Seven Branch Menorah finds its origins in the temple's Menorah, a seven branch candelabrum that burned the
purest of olive oils, made of only the first squeeze of the olive. This unique piece of
Jewish history was set on the Southern side of the temple, and signified wisdom and knowledge. This Menorah in the temple was lit from evening until morning, lighting up the temple with a holy glow, and there are those who say that the middle lamp was kept alight also during the day.
The Temple Menorah was carved out of a solid block of gold, the dimensions and details are in the scripture. But this beautiful treasure was lost to history after the Romans raided the second temple's treasures, a scene depicted in the Arch of Titus. This arch, a symbol of Jewish diaspora because of its content, shows the raid that ended the times of the Temple. The Menorah from the first Temple may have been stolen by Antiochus IV Epiphanes, along with other Temple treasures. Antiochus was later defeated by the Maccabees.
Synagogues have a lamp lit in front of the sanctuary called the Ner Tamid, and sometimes a Menorah is used for this purpose. Additionally, many synagogues choose to have seven branch menorahs regardless of whether or not they use them for the Ner Tamid, as a symbol of the Temple and the wisdom of Judaism.
This item of Judaica is a very meaningful symbol and a tie to the High Temple, and while it isn't specifically used for a particular use or tradition in the Jewish home, many find it a valuable addition to their Judaica collection
as a spiritual connection with the Temple and the purity and holy wisdom that it provided.
Based on the arch of Titus's depiction of the Temple Menorah, which is thought to be based on an eyewitness account of the raid, the State of Israel has chosen the Seven branch Menorah as their symbol, and it is featured in Israeli coins, presidential flags of Israel, State statues and more.
Christians also may feature it in churches, or display it in their homes.
If you wish to have this meaningful symbol of the Temple and Israel and Wisdom and History, this is the Judaica item for your home.
