Hitchhiker's Guide to Religion
The Menorah
Sacred Symbol

The Menorah

Menorah

TraditionMeaning
Jewish7-branched candelabrum from the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:31-40). The oldest symbol of Judaism, predating the Star of David. Represents the burning bush, divine light, and the 7 days of creation. On the Arch of Titus (carried away during Temple destruction, 70 AD). National emblem of the State of Israel
ChristianSometimes used to represent the 7 churches of Revelation or the 7 spirits of God
KabbalisticThe 7 lower Sefirot of the Tree of Life. Each branch = a divine attribute