Q: What is the meaning and origin of the Eternal Light above the Ark in the Sanctuary?
A: The Talmud calls the synagogue a “mikdash m’at,” a replacement for the Temple which once stood in Jerusalem. There, a menorah burned continually. A menorah, by the way, is not the same as a Hanukkiyah. While the menorah consists of seven level branches, a Hanukkiyah used exclusively for the holiday of Hanukkah, has eight, plus a shamash.
The Eternal Lamp or Ner Tamid, is first mentioned as a fixture in the desert Tabernacle. There it was continually alight with oil replenished into its receptacles regularly to make sure it never went out. This was and remains a reminder of God’s ever-watchful eye over the people of Israel. It, like God’s Presence never is extinguished.
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