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Ask the Rabbi: answers from Project Genesis rabbis
Is a seven-branched candelabra permitted?
Making a seven-branched menorah is prohibited by the Talmud (Menachot 28a, Avodah Zarah 43a), the Rambam (Beit ha-Bechirah 10:7), and the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh Deah 141:8). This applies only to a metal menorah. The Shulchan Aruch adds “even if it isn’t 18 handsbreadths (3 amot) high”; but possibly a small model is permitted if it’s too small to hold a 12-hour supply of oil.
I have three related questions:
1. What was the 7 stem menorah used for in the Temple?
2. Whay do some shuls (Orthodox) place symbolic 7 stem Menoroth around their Shuls (eg on the Bimah)
3. I received a 7 stem Menorah as a gift – should I dump it ?
Thanks and Regards from Johannesburg
The Menorah was placed in the outer chamber (outside the Holy of Holies to show that the Ark and all that it represented did not require light, the Torah is its own light) so that it would be visible and inspirational to every one.R’ Bachya)
“Why do some shuls (Orthodox) place symbolic 7 stem Menorah around their Shuls (eg on the Bimah) “
Through out the centuries the Menorah became a Jewish symbol just like the Star of David. The reason is that the Menorah represents another dimension of the Torah, the Oral law that is G-D-given companion of the Written Torah, and shadows light and understanding to it. And since Torah is our existence became a Jewish symbol.
“I received a 7 stem Menorah as a gift – should I dump it?”
We are not allow to make a seven stem Menorah the same way it was made in the Temple but if it is made different from the one in the Temple you can keep it (e.g. Eight stem or electric or made to be used with the candles not with oil and wicks)
Michael Shliyehsabou
Mishkan Torah Education center