The Hanukkah menorah, also Chanukiah or Hanukkiah (Hebrew: מנורת חנוכה Menorat Hanukkah, is a nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight-day holiday of Hanukkah, as opposed to the seven-branched menorah used in the ancient Temple or as a symbol.

On each night of Hanukkah a new branch is lit. The ninth holder, called the shamash ("helper" or "servant"), is for a candle used to light all other candles and/or to be used as an extra light. To be kosher the shamash must be offset on a higher or lower plane than the main eight candles or oil lamps.  The menorah is a traditional symbol of Judaism, along with the Star of David and is incorporated into all kinds of Israeli art and cultural objects.  

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Watching the candles being lit at Judaism's holies sites is always such a great experience and not to be missed if you’re lucky to be in Jerusalem for Hanukkah.  

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Click here to visit the historical and moving Western Wall with me

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