The menorah in the photo is unique in more ways than just its artistic appearance. The meaning behind this menorah was partially intended by the artist, but today, it carries a much stronger message. The menorah is made from carved wood. A material not usually used for something that would hold a wick and a flame. Because of the jewish tradition, the menorah has nine candle holders; eight are for each day of Chanukah, and the ninth is to hold the one that lights the rest, which is usually raised a little. Thus, it’s a mimesis of a kosher menorah with all the identifiably-traditional characteristics; however, it’s artistic style and carvings give the menorah it’s own signature look. Behind the menorah is a decorative star of David, and Hebrew biblical text that means “who is like you, O’lord, among the celestials?”. Both the symbol and the text have meaning beyond the obvious.

Hanukkah Lamp

This Hanukkah lamp or menorah, is a rare example of Jewish ceremonial art created during the Holocaust, in 1942. The menorah was made by Arnold Zadikow who was a sculptor and architect and Leopold Hecht, who stole the wood from Nazis in the camp. They were both deported to Theresienstadt, a concentration camp located thirty miles from Prague. Arnold was able to create the menorah in secret since he was assigned to work at the Lautsch Workshop, which made decorative arts for the Nazis. The menorah was made for the children in the camp as a symbol of hope. All jewish practice was outlawed in the camp, and if anyone was caught with the menorah people would be shot on the spot. However, during the eight nights of Chanukah, for three years Jewish children in the camp would light this menorah and sliver of hope would appear in their minds. The menorah symbolizes heroism and sacrifice at its most extreme. Today, this menorah continues to impact the way people celebrate Hanukkah. Jews from all over the world recognize the privilege of freedom and the sacrifice that people made to continue their traditions. 

 

The Hebrew inscription is very specific to the time and the overall message that the menorah conveys. In a time of desperation and pain, many Jews of Theresienstadt were still strong in their faith and traditions. The wood is also an ironic symbol of freedom. This is the same wood that the prison barracks were built in the camps. Additionally, despite the star of David being a racist symbol that jews had to wear over their clothes during the war, the Jews still embraced the symbol as if to ignore this harrowing period in time. Over time, this menorah could be mistaken for an ordinary menorah, albeit the weird material choice; however, with enough background it becomes clear that the wood, the star, the letter carvings, and the menorah as a whole is something much more symbolic than practical.