What Is a Mezuzah?

And you shall write them [the words of the Shema] on the doorposts of your house and on your gates

-- Deuteronomy 6:9; 11:20

Judaism is a faith not confined to synagogues. Within the comfort and familiarity of our homes, we also strive for spirituality. A mezuzah mounted on the doorpost designates the home as Jewish, reminding us of our connection to G-d and our heritage.

A mezuzah is not, contrary to popular belief, the outer container. The mezuzah is actually the parchment scroll within, handwritten by an expert scribe known as a sofer. It contains the "Shema" -- a biblical passage declaring the oneness of G-d and the devotion of the Jewish people to the Al-mighty. The mezuzah is then placed in a cover or case made of glass, wood, metal or any other material and, upon recitation of a blessing, affixed onto the doorpost.

In addition to its role as a declaration and reminder of our faith, the mezuzah is also a symbol of G-d's watchful care over the house and its dwellers. 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.

We show reverence to the mezuzah by touching it with our fingertips and kissing them when passing through a doorway with a mezuzah.

Through the observance of this mitzvah (divine commandment) we introduce a measure of spirituality and security into our homes.

The Torah also promises that anyone who carefully observes the mitzvah of mezuzah will lead a longer, richer life, as will their descendants; as Deuteronomy 11:21 states: "so that you will prolong your days and the days of your children..."