Also called the lampstand. It was made of solid gold and had 7 flames which were to be tended to continually (Lev 24:4). We see years of this icon as it was highly important to the working of the temple and was, in fact, instructed by God to be placed in the temple.
The menorah was the only light source in the sanctuary. We see the fulfillment of this - or what it was a shadow of - when Jesus proclaims himself (on Hanukah) to be the light of the world (John 8:12). However, Jesus also calls us the light of the world (Matt 5:14-16) when we show our good works (righteousness). Just as the menorah was to be tended continually, we must tend continually to our spiritual righteousness.
Summary
Israel, full of the spirit of the LORD, is the light of the world that goes into the darkness. The righteousness of Israel is something that requires constant tending.
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