Mezuzahs

A mezuzah is a sacred object in Judaism, typically affixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes and some rooms within the home. It is a small, rectangular case containing a parchment scroll with specific verses from the Torah. The primary passage included in the mezuzah is known as the "Shema Yisrael" (Hear, O Israel), which consists of verses from Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21. The kosher mezuzah parchment scroll, known as a "klaf" or "klaf parchment," is meticulously handwritten by a scribe (a "sofer") who adheres to strict rules of writing and formatting. The scribe uses special ink, quills, and a precise script to inscribe the verses. The parchment is then rolled up from left to right, with the text facing inward, and placed inside the mezuzah case.

The mezuzah cases themselves can be made from various materials, such as wood, metal, glass, ceramic, or plastic. It is usually decorated with Jewish symbols or designs, but can be in any design that fits your style. The case serves as a protective covering for the parchment scroll. The mezuzah serves as a visible and tangible reminder of the commandments and the importance of Jewish faith and tradition. As people pass through the doorway, they may touch the mezuzah and kiss their fingers as a sign of reverence and to fulfill the mitzvah (commandment) associated with the mezuzah.

The kosher scroll, aka klaf, has a verse from the Shema including: "Hear, O Israel, the Lord (is) our God, the Lord is One." The kosher scrolls are pricey because the words are handwritten by an expert scribe who is trained in the many laws involved in writing a mezuzah. Every letter must be perfect, and even one crack can make the whole scroll invalid. On the back of the scroll it says one form of God's name: Sha-dai, which also means "Guardian of the doorways of Israel.” Since Sha-dai begins with the letter shin, many mezuzot are inscribed with a shin.

It's a fun tradition, one that blesses the home and reminds us every day of our Judaism. The case is a vessel to hold the important scroll, so pick something fun that reflects your style. Like our designer mezuzah cases or cute kids mezuzah cases!

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to hang mezuzah cases:

• Choose the Right Location:
Select the right doorpost on which to hang the mezuzah. It should be on the right-hand side as you enter the room, at about shoulder height for most people. The mezuzah should be affixed to the upper third of the doorpost, not too close to the top or bottom. When affixing a mezuzah, Ashkenazi Jews place it in a slanted position with the top pointed to the inside of the room. Sephardim place the mezuzah vertically.
• Recite the Blessing:
Before affixing the mezuzah, say the appropriate blessing. The blessing is: "Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, asher kid'shanu b'mitzvotav v'tzivanu likboa mezuzah." This blessing thanks God for sanctifying us with His commandments and commanding us to affix a mezuzah.
• Place the Mezuzah in Position:
Hold the mezuzah in place on the doorpost and mark the top and bottom edges lightly with a pencil to indicate where to affix it.
• Make a Pilot Hole:
For mezuzah cases installed with a nail, use a small nail or a drill to make a pilot hole at the marked spots. Be cautious to avoid damaging the doorpost or the mezuzah. Other mezuzah cases can be affixed with string or double-sided tape.
• Affix the Mezuzah:
Insert the mezuzah's top edge into the pilot hole, and then press the bottom edge in place, ensuring it is straight. If using nails, insert them through the holes in the mezuzah case and into the pilot holes. If using adhesive, apply it to the back of the mezuzah case and press it firmly onto the doorpost.
• Close the Mezuzah Case:
Once the mezuzah is affixed securely, gently close the mezuzah case to protect the parchment scroll.
• Say the Shema:
As a custom, some people may recite the Shema or kiss their fingers and touch the mezuzah upon affixing it. Remember that the mezuzah should be checked periodically to ensure that the parchment inside remains intact and in good condition. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, it's always best to seek guidance from a knowledgeable rabbi or Jewish authority.

In Jewish tradition, a mezuzah is typically affixed to the doorpost of rooms used for living and dwelling. The basic rule is to place a mezuzah on the doorpost of any room that has a door frame and a threshold, and is used for regular living activities. The following rooms are commonly considered appropriate for mezuzah cases:

• Front Door:
The entrance to the home is the most important place to hang a mezuzah. It is traditionally placed on the right side as you enter. There are outdoor mezuzah cases that are made to withstand the elements.
• Living Room:
The main living area of the home, where family and guests gather, is often considered a suitable location for a mezuzah.
• Kitchen:
The kitchen is a central area where people spend much time, making it an appropriate place for a mezuzah.
• Bedrooms:
Each bedroom where someone sleeps, including children's rooms, is an appropriate location for a mezuzah.
• Dining Room:
If you have a separate dining room, you can place a mezuzah on its entrance.
• Study/Office:
If you have a designated study or home office, it is customary to place a mezuzah on its doorpost.
• Any other significant rooms:
If there are other rooms used regularly for dwelling or living, such as a den or family room, they may also be suitable for a mezuzah. It's important to note that bathrooms, closets, and small storage spaces are generally exempt from having a mezuzah, as they are not considered primary living areas.