Paul Schreiber from N. Miami, FL wrote:

Dear Rabbi,

I own a seven-branched menorah for decorative purposes. A friend recently told me that this menorah should never be lit. Is this true and if so, why?

Dear Paul Schreiber,

The Torah commands that in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem there should be a seven-branched menorah, and that making such a menorah for private use is prohibited. Having six or eight branches is fine, so bring your menorah to a silversmith and add a branch, or take one off!

Sources:

• Shulchan Aruch Yoreh De'ah 141:8
• Numbers 8