Q: Why do some menorahs have seven candlesticks and some have nine?

A: The 7-candle menorah represents the lampstand in the wilderness tabernacle and the Jerusalem Temple.  Every synagogue has such a menorah. The 9-candle menorah (also called a hanukkiah) is special for Hanukkah, and represents the legend of the miraculous provision of oil for eight days.  During the eight-day annual holiday, one candle is lit each day.  The 9th candle,called the shamus, is used to light the others.