Menorah as a symbol of Christ and the Tree of Life – Part 1


PART 1

This is the first part of a multiple parts posting to take the time to explain the symbolism of the menorah for Latter-day Saints.

 

 H   G   R          R   G   H                     H = Heifer, G = Goat, R = Ram

menorah

 

The menorah symbol is actually a representation of the Tree of Life. It really does look like a tree. We know from the Book of Mormon that the Tree of Life represents the Savior Jesus Christ (see 1 Nephi 11:21-22). The symbol is derived from the ancient animal sacrifices of a heifer, goat, and ram. As each animal is laid down to be sacrificed, it is cut in the midst or middle into two pieces (see Gen. 15:9-10). Hence, the semi-circle pattern of each branch of the menorah is made up of cutting the heifer, goat and ram down the middle to create two halves or branches of the menorah. The middle candlestick is the Lord himself or His Spirit that cuts the animals into the two pieces or branches (see Gen. 15:17).

Anciently all animal sacrifices were symbols of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Son of God (see Moses 5:6-8). Hence, the menorah is literally a perfect symbol of the Savior pointing to His atoning sacrifice, even the Tree of Life.

We have a golden menorah placed among our Nativities that serves as a reminder that we celebrate Jesus Christ’s life at Christmas, not just His birth.

While staying in New York City, several years ago, we walked to a synagogue and asked the Rabbi what he thought of our interpretation of the menorah being a symbol of the Tree of Life. There are so many representations of the Tree of Life in all cultures, we were curious about what he might say. He was polite and thought our idea was interesting, but he, himself had never seen it that way.

One day, we know the Jews will come to realize who their Savior really is and they too will celebrate the salvation He offers all.

Be sure to look at these additional posts: part 2, part 3, part 4, part 5 about the symbolism of the menorah.

(Special thanks to Lee Donaldson-CES instructor-for these insights)