Conservative Judaism/Menorahs

Advertisement

Expert: Alan R. Rothstein - 5/5/2004


Question
Is there a reason why some Menorahs have only seven candle holders whilst the majority have nine? Thank you Ian  

Answer
Ian -

Thee menorah in Solomon's great temple had seven branches. A  menorah with nine branches is a Chanukiah, a special menorah used during Chanukah. One candle is the shamash or guardian and the other eight are lit each night, starting with one for the first night, two for the second, etc.

I hope this is helpful.

Alan
mailto:rothstein@uscj.org

Conservative Judaism

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Alan R. Rothstein

Expertise

All topics of Jewish life from a Conservative perspective. I am past president of Congregation Beth Sholom in San Francisco, President of the Northern California Region of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, and member of the International Board of Directors of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, HQ in New York.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.