By: David W Sacco
Menorah pendants are very popular with those involved in the Jewish faith as a result of the importance of the menorah itself in Jewish culture and religion. The menorah is one of the oldest symbols of Judaism, with history dating back thousands of years. The standard menorah is a seven-armed candle holder that is used year round in religious ceremonies. It is so prominent in Jewish culture that it is also depicted on the emblem of Israel. The standard menorah is said to represent several different things. First, it is supposed to represent the burning bush that Moses saw, at which point God conversed with him and made his presence known. It is also said to represent the everlasting presence of God in our lives. With seven different branches, one for each day of the week, the menorah represents a continuing connection with God throughout the entire week.
The Hanukkah Menorah
Despite the importance of the standard menorah in Jewish culture, more widely known in the United States is the Hanukkah menorah, also known as a Hanukiah. This version of the menorah features a total of nine arms, four on each side with an elevated arm in the center. The elevated center branch is known as the Shamash, and it is used to light the other branches. The Hanukiah represents the miracle of the burning oil following the successful Jewish uprising against Antiochus, led by the Maccabees. With only enough scared oil to light the holy menorah for one day, they feared the menorah would burn out. However, the oil miraculously lasted for eight days, which is the length of time required to make new, pure, ritual olive oil. Therefore the menorah never went out, and the occasion is permanently remembered with the celebration of the eight day long festival of Hanukkah.
Why Wear a Menorah Pendant?
As a result of the strong connection between Jewish culture and faith and the menorah, menorah pendants are very popular. Menorah jewelry most commonly features the standard, seven-armed menorah, however Hanukiahs are also featured in some jewelry pieces.O utside of the Star of David, there isn't any symbol that is more intertwined with Judaism than the menorah. Wearing a necklace with a menorah pendant is therefore an excellent way to showcase your connection with Judaism and your relationship with God. If the standard menorah represents the every day presence of God in our lives, there is hardly a better way to take that to heart than to wear a menorah everywhere you go. By wearing a pendant with a nine-branched Hanukiah you would be showcasing the fighting spirit and the long, storied and turbulent history of the Jewish people. The successful uprising of the Maccabees against Antiochus is yet another time in history when the Jewish people had their backs against the wall and were forced to fight and scrap for their survival. A Hanukiah pendant is an excellent way to remember that occasion and honor the obstacles that Judaism has had to overcome.
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