Vampire Weekend's Surprising Jewish Stories
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Depicted on the Arch of Titus as a symbol of the Jewish exile, the menorah now represents the nation's newfound sovereignty with hope for the future.
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On this day in Jewish history, the menorah was chosen as the symbol of Israel.
The menorah is a central part of Jewish belief, finding its roots in the book of Exodus where Moses was instructed on how to build a golden oil lamp. The menorah was a centerpiece in the Jerusalem Temple. It was famously involved in the miracle of Hanukkah.
For nearly two millennia, the symbol of the Jewish people was the seven-stemmed candelabra, as illustrations and decorations on coins and jewelry. Many synagogues featured artworks of menorahs on their walls.
The menorah was also featured on the Arch of Titus. Titus was the Roman emperor at the time of the destruction of the Second Temple, and the Arch depicts Roman soldiers parading through Rome with their plundered treasures from the Temple – including the menorah.
In 1949, a new symbol was needed for the infant State of Israel. The symbol used today was designed by Latvian-born brothers Gabriel and Maxim Shamir. The menorah is an eternal symbol of Judaism. Depicted on the Arch of Titus as a symbol of the Jewish exile and subjugation, the menorah would now represent the nation's newfound sovereignty with hope for the future.
