The shape of the menorah bears a striking similarity to several fragrant species of the Salvia (sage) family that grow wild throughout Israel. The menorah in the Temple in Jerusalem was lit with "pure oil of beaten olives" (Exodus 27:20). On the "Hill of the Menorah" at Neot Kedumim, ancient olive trees, the source of the light, lead up the slope to the botanical "menorah."
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