Mezuzah FAQs

What is a Mezuzah?

A mezuzah mounted on the doorpost designates the home as Jewish, reminding us of our connection to G d and to our heritage. A mezuzah is not, contrary to popular belief, the outer container. The mezuzah is actually the parchment scroll within, on which the "Shema" - a biblical passage declaring the oneness of G d - is handwritten by an expert scribe.

The mezuzah is also a symbol of G d's watchful care over the home. The name of G d, Sha-dai, which appears on the reverse side of the parchment, is an acronym for the Hebrew words which mean "Guardian of the doorways of Israel." The placing of a mezuzah on the doors of a home or office protects the inhabitants - whether they are inside or outside.

What is a Kosher Mezuzah Scroll?

A Kosher Mezuzah Scroll is a portion of Holy Torah that has been inscribed in the same manner and script as a Torah. It is an "original" sanctified document in accordance with laws and precepts that dare not be compromised.

On this sacred scroll of parchment are inscribed two passages from Torah, "Shema Yisroel" and "Vehaya" (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21). Because it represents basic principles of our faith, the Mezuzah is our responsibility to visitors as well as to ourselves. When a Mezuzah is not valid, its blessings are nullified. Even if one letter or part of a letter is missing or imperfect, the Mezuzah may not be used.

Only a "Kosher" Mezuzah sanctifies and protects the home, as well as fulfills the saying of the Psalmist, "G-d will guard your going and coming from now and for all time." That is why when you purchase a Mezuzah for yourself or make it a gift to a relative or friend, you are obligated to assure its validity. Be certain that it is hand written and that you obtain it from a reliable source.

If it's written in Torah script by an ordained and dedicated scribe, then it identifies, sanctifies and protects your home with its blessing.

Just as a Torah is adorned with ornaments, the Mezuzah is encased in any variety of traditional or contemporary cases. The contents, however, may never be compromised.

How is a Kosher Scroll made?

A Kosher scroll is hand written by a trained scribe. It is written on Parchment using a quill to form the Torah like letters.

After a Mezuzah is written it needs to be inspected to be sure that all its letters have been formed correctly and entirely.

It takes 22 Lines, 713 Letters & 4649 Laws Governing the writing of each Mezuzah by a trained scribe.

Which doors should have a Mezuzah?

A Mezuzah should be affixed to the doorpost of each room in the home and place of business (including basement attic and garage) however, its most significant placement is on the entrance door posts. A Mezuzah should never be placed at the entrance to a bathroom.

How long will my Mezuzah Last?

A Mezuzah can last for many years however, it does require maintenance. Temperature and weather changes as well as age, may cause the ink to fade and crack, thereby invalidating the Mezuzah. Each Mezuzah should be examined by a reliable scribe at least twice every seven years.