Best menorahs for Hanukkah
The time to celebrate the eight days of Hanukkah has almost arrived. This year’s Festival of Lights spans from Dec. 18 through Dec. 26, so there’s still time to purchase a beautiful menorah to illuminate your celebration and display your faith.
From classic to contemporary, menorahs come in different shapes, sizes and designs. Whether adding to your collection or looking for your first menorah for a new home, the right one will be enjoyed for years to come as you light each branch to mark the annual celebration.
The basics of the Hanukkah menorah
The oldest symbol of the Jewish faith, the Hanukkah menorah represents the miracle of the single day’s oil supply at the Temple of Jerusalem that burned for eight days. Also called a hanukkiah, this nine-branch candelabra traditionally includes an elevated ninth center candle or shammash used to light the other eight candles during the celebration. The shammash is also called the servant or helper candle because of its important role.
During the eight-day Festival of Lights, one candle is lit each night until the entire menorah is glowing. Menorahs are traditionally placed close to or in a window as a symbol of dedication and of sharing the light of the season with those who pass by.
Materials used to make menorahs
In the Hebrew Bible, the menorah was made of real gold. Although beautiful, a solid gold menorah would be expensive. Fortunately, metal menorahs are available that are made of materials such as brass, iron or aluminum. They come in gorgeous finishes that resemble precious metals, including bronze, gold tone, copper, iron and silver tone.
Menorah sizes and candles
While there is no standard size for a menorah, most models range from 7 to 14 inches in height and width. These menorahs work with traditional candles of various sizes. Some small menorahs work with miniature candles that are used for birthday cakes. Most companies list the size of the candles they accommodate, so check this information before you stock up on candles.
In addition to candles, some menorahs also accommodate small glass cups that are used to hold oil for burning. Flameless options are also available. While they look like typical Hanukkah menorahs, they have lights powered by batteries, cables or electricity.
Best menorahs
Zion Judaica Ltd Classic Geometric Star of David Hanukkah Menorah
This menorah has a durable build with nice weight and a sturdy base with a slip-resistant rubberized bottom. It features a sleek silver-tone finish with the Star of David below the shammash. It works with most standard Hanukkah candles.
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The Dreidel Company Tree of Life Antique Finish Hanukkah Menorah
This menorah’s Tree of Life design has a branchlike appearance with detailed leaves. It’s available in several antique finishes to match different decor.
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Ner Mitzvah Traditional Menorah
Because it’s made of durable metal, this traditional Hanukkah menorah is built to last year after year. It’s available in a bronze or silver finish with the Star of David at the center of the piece. It works with traditional menorah candles or small oil cups.
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The Dreidel Company Traditional LED Electric Menorah
An alternative to traditional Hanukkah menorahs, this model doesn’t work with flames as it’s powered by batteries, a USB cable or electricity. It has the Star of David beneath the shammash and comes in a choice of several finishes. It’s a nice decorative piece to use in areas where flames aren’t practical.
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RTZEN Judaica Wave-Style Hanukkah Menorah
Because it comes with inserts, this attractive menorah works with candles of various sizes. Constructed by hand of durable iron, it has impressive weight and is stable when placed on a flat surface. It features a stylish wavelike appearance that looks great in a window.
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The Dreidel Company Tree of Life Rustic Hanukkah Menorah
The treelike appearance with branches and roots give this menorah a rustic style. It’s made of brass that’s strong and has weight that keeps it stable on a flat surface such as a tabletop or windowsill. You can choose from several finishes including silver, copper, pewter and gold. Sold by Amazon
Rite Lite Medium Tree of Life Hanukkah Menorah
We like that the Rite Lite Tree of Life menorah has a mixed-metal finish with silver and gold accents. The contemporary structure includes a shammash that’s positioned separately from the eight branches that represent the Festival of Lights. It’s available in a choice of two sizes.
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Zion Judaica Small Classic Menorah
Although it’s small, this classic Hanukkah menorah has a heavy feel and a stable base. Unlike most menorahs, it works with standard birthday candles. It’s a good choice for small spaces. You can pick between blue and silver finishes.
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Ner Mitzvah Colorful Aluminum Menorah
If you are looking for a colorful menorah, you’ll like multiple shades of blue in the finish of this model. It has a modern structure and works with standard candles or oil cups. It’s made of aluminum that’s sturdy and long-lasting.
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In addition to strong iron construction, this menorah offers a contemporary design with the shammash on one end instead of in the middle. It has a powdered-coated finish that protects the metal from developing corrosion or rust.
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Jennifer Manfrin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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