The original menorah, which means "light-bearer", was instructed by YHWH to Moses as having one main "stem" and six branches (Exodus 25:31-40); it was placed in the "holy place" of the Tabernacle and the Temple. It not only represents one of the oldest symbols of the Jewish faith but it is also the only symbol our Creator designed Himself. All other "religious" symbols are man-made.

Exodus 25:31 . . . "You shall also make a lampstand of pure gold; the lampstand shall be of hammered work. Its shaft, its branches, its bowls, its ornamental knobs, and flowers shall be of one piece" . . .

Exodus 25:32 . . . "And six branches shall come out of its sides: three branches of the lampstand out of one side, and three branches of the lampstand out of the other side."

"Six" is the number for man and with Him we become "seven" or perfect - a perfect source of light, reflecting His light unto the world.

The 9-branch light-stand used only at Hannukah is called a Hanukkiya.