History of Menorah and the Candles
Many of us, whether we are Jews or not, know exactly what a Menorah is, but do know what the Menorah candles mean? In Jews religion, the menorah is the official symbol of the Jewish nation.
The first menorah began with an artisan mentioned in the Bible. He created the six-branched candle holder to use in the first Temple and it was made of solid gold. He then crafted a second menorah to use in the second Temple and it was a branch of seven candle holders and this is what many Jewish followers use today. And it is a familiar seven-branched candle holder that many non-Jewish persons are familiar with today.
The Jewish religious followers use the menorah to celebrate their victory of the Greek army and this celebration is called Hanukkah. It is a commemoration of the triumph of the Maccabeus over the Greeks and is still celebrated present day. The use of the original seven branched candle menorah is forbidden to be used so the replica of this famous menorah is made into eight branches and they are lit one by one to remember this triumph.
The Jews religion is one that has been shunned by some throughout history, but their practices and followings are some of wonder. The menorah is part of the Jewish holiday and has served as a reminder to them of the great sacrifices past Jews have made for them. Many Jewish practices have focused on happiness and gratefulness and Jews will continue to practice these menorah traditions. To learn more about the Jewish religion, I encourage you to visit Judaism 101.
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