Growth and Immutability

R' Shimshon Raphael Hirsch points out that the menorah is the only one of the major vessels that contains no wood. Paradoxically, the menorah is the only vessel to resemble a growing object ( with it's trunk and branches - the menorah resembles a tree ). What can we learn from this ?

Regarding the absence of wood in the menorah, R' Hirsch comments that this is an integral fact in our understanding of the torah ( which is what the menorah's light represents ).  The torah, being Hashem's wisdom, is immutable and unchanging. It doesn't go in or out of style and is not subject to the whimsy of fads and trends. Only once we accept this truth can we move forward in our study of the torah. 

Perhaps this is why the menorah is shaped like a tree. Because once we recognize the unchanging nature of the torah, and devote ourselves to it's study - then we ourselves will embark on a journey of growth.  There is always room for development and evolution - but only with the understanding that the growth is within us - we are the ones advancing and the unchanging torah is the vehicle.

As an analogy - when I view a masterpiece from far away - it seems simple and unimpressive. The closer I look and the more expertise I develop - the more wowed I'll be. The masterpiece has not changed - I have.

May we all merit to continue to be nurtured into our own mighty and stately trees - with our roots drinking firmly from the waters of the unchanging torah.

Hatzlacha !!