Candelabra as a tree

The 7-armed candelabra, or menorah, is one of the most important Jewish symbols. In the Old Testament Moses not only receives the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai but instructions to build a shrine as well, a shrine including a 7-armed candelabra. This item of Jewish temple equipment makes its way into Christian art in the Early Middle Ages.

Replicas are fashioned, the earliest remaining example being the Essen candelabra from around 1000. A little later the 7-armed candelabra is adorned with floral decoration and reinterpreted as the family tree of Christ, the Holy Spirit being borne on its 7 branches and Jesse arising from its root. The latter refers to the Old Testament connection between Christianity and Judaism, specifically that Jesus is a descendant of David. Jesse is the father of David and King of Judah and Israel.

In its tree form the candelabra is also known as the wood of life (‘lignum vitae’ in Latin), a symbol of resurrection and eternal life. The number 7 is significant in Christian symbolism too; it refers to the Creation, completed in 7 days, to the 7 gifts of the Holy Spirit and to the 7 sacraments.