The Mezuzah is a century old religious symbol in Judaism. This spiritual object is affixed on doorframes of Jewish-owned homes and businesses. It traditionally contains a small parchment inscribed with several paragraphs from the Torah, the Jewish Bible. Though its purpose and importance have evolved over time, the Mezuzah still carries great significance in modern-day Judaism.
The word ‘Mezuzah’ comes from the Hebrew for ‘doorpost’, and it refers to the commandment to affix small scrolls of parchment to the doorposts of one’s home or office. The scrolls are inscribed with verses from Deuteronomy and can be found in most Jewish homes and workplaces. Rabbi David Fohrman, Director of Education for Aleph Beta, explains: “The Mezuzah is a sign of faith and allegiance, a reminder and teaching tool, and a protective device from harm.”
The practice of placing a Mezuzah dates as far back as the Second Temple period of the first and second centuries B.C.E. Since then, the Mezuzah has gone beyond its significance in religious practice to become an important symbol of a Jewish home and safety within. Matthew Gindin, author of “Drawing From Within: Creating a 21st Century Jewish Mezuzah,” notes: “A few generations ago, it may have been impossible to move an entire family around the world in a short period, but a Mezuzah could travel easily, conveying ritual and tradition to previously unknown places.”
The Mezuzah also has come to signify a broader connection to the Jewish people. According to The American Jewish Committee, “each time someone enters or leaves a Jewish home, he or she should knock on the mezuzah, thereby recognizing the small but important reminder: We’re joined to something greater, something spiritual, something eternal.”
Though the scroll affixed to the exterior of a door frame is the most widely known aspect of a Mezuzah, the object itself is much more complicated. At it’s core, the Mezuzah is a symbol of faith and Jewish identity, but its ultimate purpose is to bring sanctity into one’s home. Gindin explains that “…the purpose of the Mezuzah is to bring together holiness and the physical object, to create a container that can be protective and inspirational.”
The Mezuzah serves multiple purposes – both physically and spiritually. It is a reminder to observe the commandments of the Torah, and it is also a physical sign of dedication and protection to the Jewish people. Whatever its purpose, the Mezuzah remains an integral part of Jewish life – in the home, in the workplace, and in the larger community. As Gindin states, “this is not just an external ritual but a lens through which to focus our lives.”
What is Inside a Mezuzah?
The scroll inside a Mezuzah is called a Klaf, and it is written in ancient Hebrew. It is inscribed with two passages from the Torah, specifically from Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:11-20, collectively known as the Shema. The passages are considered to be at the core of Judaism, a reminder and teaching of the commandments and blessings of God. The text is traditionally written by a scribe, or Sofer, in black ink on parchment, although nowadays scrolls pre-written with the text of the Shema are also available.
When a Jewish home is being built, the architect should plan to place a mezuzah on the doorpost of the entrance to the home. The scroll should be tied to a metal or wooden holder, and a prayer is traditionally spoken when affixing the Mezuzah. Additionally, before each Jewish new year, the scrolls are traditionally checked by a Sofer to make sure that the writing is still legible and intact.
What Are The Symbolic Meanings of a Mezuzah?
The Mezuzah has been described as “life’s signposts”, as it serves to remind the homeowner of the commandments and blessings of God. Additionally, the placement of the Mezuzah, traditionally on the right side of the door, serves as a reminder of the importance of direction. It is meant to “guide us on the path that is right and good, the path that leads to peace,” as described in Deuteronomy 6:4-9.
The Mezuzah also serves as a reminder of the unity and strength of the Jewish people. Rabbi Fohrman notes: “Mezuzah is a sign that you are connected not only to the higher source but also to the upper and lower sources, to Israel and its unifying reality.” It is also a symbol of hope and protection, as the scrolls contained inside are said to be endowed with magical powers.
What Does The Mezuzah Look Like?
The Mezuzah is usually constructed in three parts – the holder, the scroll, and sometimes a decorative symbol. The holder is generally made of metal, but it can also be found in a variety of other materials, such as wood, glass, ceramic, or leather. The scroll is traditionally written in Hebrew on parchment, although it may sometimes be printed. The decorative symbol is usually a Star of David, but other symbols are also used, such as an eye for protection against the Evil Eye.
Mezuzah In Public Spaces
Mezuzahs can be found in many other public spaces in addition to private homes. Synagogues and other places of worship prominently display the Mezuzah, and it is also becoming more common in other public places, such as hospitals, schools, and even airplanes. The Mezuzah is not only a symbol to Jewish people, but also a sign of respect and inclusion for other faiths.
Significance to the Jewish Community
The Mezuzah is an integral part of Jewish life, both in the past and the present. It serves as a reminder to observe the commandments of the Torah and is a sign of the unity and strength of the Jewish people. Additionally, it is a symbol of hope and protection, and it serves as a physical and spiritual reminder of the blessings of God.
Modern Applications of the Mezuzah
Today, the Mezuzah is a signifier of Jewish identity for many Jewish people. It has evolved from its ancient origins to become an important part of modern life. It is a symbol of faith, unity and inclusion, and a reminder of God’s blessings. The Mezuzah has become an important part of Jewish culture and can be seen in homes, businesses, and public spaces around the world.
Mezuzah Charms and Other Accessories
The modern Mezuzah can be found in a variety of forms and materials, from traditional to contemporary. Many Jews now choose to wear or display Mezuzah charms, which can range from simple, pendant-style versions to more elaborate designs. Mezuzah holders are also a popular choice, made in many different materials and styles. Others may choose to simply place a Mezuzah sticker on the doorpost of their home or business, as a reminder of the traditional practice.
The Future of the Mezuzah
The Mezuzah has a long history, and it looks to have a bright future. With the continued rise of technology, there is a growing demand for digital versions of the Mezuzah, from interactive apps to electronic posters and stickers. The Mezuzah, in whatever form it takes, will continue to serve as an important symbol for the Jewish community for generations to come.
