Jessie Taylor
The temple candlesticks, also known as menorahs, are seven-branched candlesticks that are often associated with Jewish religious traditions and rituals. The size of these candlesticks may vary, but they typically consist of a pedestal or base, a central stem, and curving branches. The number of lamps on a menorah can range from seven, representing the seven planets or stars, to as many as needed for specific rituals. The height of modern candlesticks can range from 5 to 9 inches, accommodating various candle sizes. In ancient times, the menorah burned oil instead of candles, with each lamp being filled and trimmed daily. The temple candlesticks hold symbolic significance, representing the church of God and acting as a source of light in holy places.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Height | 5-9 inches |
| Base | Felted to protect the table surface |
| Well | Extra large to accommodate several candle sizes |
| Securing | Anchored by metal prongs |
| Branches | Six curving branches, three on each side |
| Lamps | Seven |
| Symbolism | The seven branches may represent the seven planets, the eyes of God |
| Materials | Gold |
| Location | On the South side of the holy place |
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What You'll Learn
The Temple candlesticks were made of pure gold
The candlesticks were crafted with a central stem and six curving branches, three on each side, with seven lamps resting on the tops. The stem and branches were ornamented with cups shaped like almond blossoms, knops, and flowers. The pedestals of the candlesticks are thought to have had three small feet, though the exact shape is uncertain.
The Temple candlesticks were not only functional but also held deep symbolic meaning. The seven lamps are thought to represent the seven planets, with the central lamp signifying the sun, the chief of the planets. The almond-tree symbolism may also be connected to the idea of stars representing almonds.
The use of pure gold in the construction of these sacred objects underscores their importance and value. Gold is a precious metal that has long been associated with wealth, prestige, and the divine. By crafting the Temple candlesticks from pure gold, the artisans and patrons emphasized the holiness of the Temple and its role as a dwelling place for the divine.
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They were 5-9 inches tall
Temple candlesticks come in a variety of sizes, with heights ranging from 5 to 9 inches. The smallest size available is 5 inches, followed by a medium size of 6 inches, and a large size of 7 inches. For those who require even taller candlesticks, there is an extra-large option that measures 9 to 11 inches in height.
The height of these candlesticks is designed to accommodate various candle sizes, ensuring that they can be securely held in place. The extra-large well of the candlesticks is worth noting, as it can accommodate several different candle widths. This versatility in candle accommodation is a notable feature of these temple candlesticks.
The base of the candlesticks is also designed with functionality in mind. Each candlestick features a felted base that protects the surface of tables or other furniture on which they are placed. This attention to detail showcases the thoughtful craftsmanship that has gone into the creation of these temple candlesticks.
The height of these candlesticks, ranging from 5 to 9 inches, strikes a balance between subtlety and presence. They are tall enough to make a visual impact and create a sense of elegance, yet they remain understated, allowing the beauty of the candles they hold to shine through. This size range also offers versatility in placement, as they can be used in various settings without overwhelming the surrounding décor.
Overall, the 5-to-9-inch height of these temple candlesticks showcases a thoughtful design that considers both aesthetics and functionality. The varying sizes cater to different candle widths, ensuring a secure fit, while the felted base protects furniture. These candlesticks are a testament to the maker's craftsmanship, with subtle variations in each piece reflecting the unique, handmade nature of these decorative items.
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They had seven branches
The seven-branched candlestick, also known as the menorah, is a significant symbol in Jewish tradition and is often depicted in art and funerary art. The oldest known representation of the seven-branched candlestick is on a coin of Antigonus, dating back to circa 40 BC.
The menorah is described in the Book of Exodus as having a pedestal or base, from which rose a central stem or trunk. Six branches curved upward from the stem in a vertical line, with three branches on each side. At the top of each branch was a lamp, with a total of seven lamps on the menorah. These lamps were fed by olive oil, not wax candles, as candles were unknown in the Middle East until around 400 CE.
The seven lamps are believed to have symbolic meaning, representing the seven planets, which were regarded as the eyes of God. The light in the centre lamp, which was distinguished from the others, signified the sun, the chief of the planets. This interpretation is supported by Josephus, who states that the menorah represented the seven planets.
The menorah is also associated with Zechariah's vision in the Book of Zechariah, where the seven lamps are fed by two olive trees, interpreted as "the two anointed ones," Zerubbabel and Joshua, the civil and spiritual leaders of the Jewish people. The menorah in this context symbolises the church of God and its role as a light-giver in the world.
The use of the menorah has been preserved in the Byzantine Rite, where it stands on or behind the altar in the sanctuary. During services, all seven lamps are typically lit, although sometimes only the three centermost lamps are illuminated for lesser services. The centermost lamp may also be kept lit continuously as an eternal flame.
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They were lit during the day and night
The temple candlesticks, also known as the menorah, were seven-branched candelabras that held seven lamps or candles. They were made of pure gold and were lit with olive oil.
The lighting of the temple candlesticks held symbolic significance. Three of the seven lamps were kept burning during the day, while all seven were lit at night. This practice is referenced in the Talmud, where it is stated that the centre lamp, known as the ner hama'aravi (Western lamp) or the ner Elohim (lamp of God), remained lit throughout the day and night. This miracle was interpreted as a sign of the Shechinah's presence among Israel.
The seven lamps of the temple candlesticks are believed to represent the seven planets, which are regarded as the eyes of God, always watching. The central lamp, distinguished from the others, may signify the sun, the chief of the planets. This interpretation is supported by Josephus, who, in his Cosmical Speculations, equates the seven lamps with the seven planets.
The lighting of the temple candlesticks also had practical implications. The lamps provided light in the temple during the day, with the upper windows allowing natural light to enter. At night, the candlesticks would have been the primary source of illumination, their seven lamps burning brightly to dispel the darkness.
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They were placed in front of the Holy of Holies
The temple candlesticks were placed in front of the Holy of Holies, with five on one side and five on the other. They were made of pure beaten gold, with a central stem and six branches—three on each side—and seven lamps resting on the tops of the branches and stems. The candlesticks were ornamented with cups like almond blossoms, knops, and flowers, with four of these on the stem and three on each of the branches.
The placement of the candlesticks in front of the Holy of Holies held significant meaning. They symbolized the church of God and represented God's church as a light-giver in the world. The seven lamps on the candlesticks were believed to signify the seven planets, with Zechariah envisioning the lamps being fed by two olive trees, interpreted as "the two anointed ones," Zerubbabel and Joshua, the civil and spiritual representatives of theocracy.
In the morning, priests trimmed the lamps, carrying away the ashes in golden dishes and supplying fresh oil to the lamps. The lighting of the candlesticks every evening and their extinguishing every morning was a sacred ritual. The candlesticks were not merely functional but also held deep symbolic value, with their structure and arrangement carefully designed and positioned within the temple.
The temple candlesticks were of considerable value, estimated to be worth over $25,000 in modern currency. They were crafted from pure gold and stood about five feet high, with a solid hexagonal base. The candlesticks were eventually plundered by Antiochus Epiphanes, and a new set was made by Judas Maccabeus.
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Frequently asked questions
The height of Temple candlesticks varies between 5-9 inches.
The Temple candlesticks had seven lamps. However, in Solomon's temple, the single golden candlestick was multiplied to ten.
The Temple candlesticks were made of pure beaten gold.
