The menorah – described in Parshat Beha’alotecha*– has been a central symbol of Judaism from the Temple in ancient times to the Knesset in modern Israel. What has made the menorah such an enduring symbol of the Jewish people?

The commentaries raise several questions that illuminate this idea. First, why is the making of the menorah described here again after it has already appeared twice before? Second, why must the three branches on each side turn inward toward the central light?

The Torah describes the menorah as mikshah – fashioned, according to Rashi, from a single hammered piece of gold. The Midrash offers another layer of meaning: Moshe found the menorah extraordinarily difficult (nitkasheh) to create. No matter how many times God showed him the design, he was unable to reproduce it, until God miraculously completed it through fire. Perhaps the Torah’s repeated descriptions allude to this challenge. The menorah thus symbolizes a Divine ideal: many parts joined together in a single sacred whole.

The lighting of the menorah reinforces this message. Aaron is commanded to kindle the lamps so that the three branches on each side face the central light. Rashi explains that this teaches there is ultimately one true source of light in the world – God. Sforno offers another interpretation: the branches represent different kinds of Jews. Though some stand further to the right and others to the left, all remain part of the same menorah and all turn toward the center – a shared commitment and collective mission.

This election season in Israel feels especially consequential. The menorah offers a powerful image for both our leaders and society: despite our differences, we must continue to prioritize our shared commitment to our people, our tradition, and our land. Shabbat Shalom -Karen Miller Jackson

*For the next few weeks I’ll be following the Torah reading schedule in Israel.