Seven-armed candelabrum (Hebr. menorah, pl. menorot) that was among the implements of the tabernacle in ancient Israel and later was among the cult objects of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. In addition to its practical function in temple rituals, from biblical times onward, the menorah has had a high symbolic value. Since 1948, it has adorned the coat of arms of the State of Israel.
1. Tabernacle and temple
The Book of Exodus reports that after receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount S…