How to Buy a Menorah

The menorah is the religious symbol of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. According to Jewish history, after the Jewish revolt against Antiochus IV, the Temple menorah only had enough oil in it to last for 1 day. When the oil lasted for 8 days, the Jewish people knew they had witnessed a miracle. It is customary for Jewish homes to have a Menorah during the celebration of Hanukkah.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Decide what kind of menorah is right for your celebration. Some families purchase 1 large menorah and a smaller children's menorah.
2. Contact your local synagogue for information about purchasing a menorah for your home.
3. Check local retailers in largely Jewish communities. Most will have a variety of menorahs available for purchase along with other Hanukkah items.
4. Visit websites that specialize in the sale of items for Jewish holidays.
5. Call your local Jewish Community Center for information on where to purchase a menorah.
6. Ask friends or family members where they purchased the menorah in their home.
7. Look in your local phone directory for religious supply stores. Look for specific retailers that carry Jewish supplies.

Tips & Warnings

• Determine how elaborate you want your menorah to be and how much you plan to spend before shopping. Menorahs come in lots of sizes, materials and in different themes.
• Look for a menorah that most closely represents your family celebration. This can be an heirloom to pass down for many generations, so consider carefully.
• Closely monitor children around any open flame. Use a menorah only with adult supervision.