Mezuzah: Affixing the Sacred Scroll to Your Doorpost

A mezuzah is a parchment scroll inscribed with verses from the Torah (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21), including the Shema. The scroll is placed in a protective case and affixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes, fulfilling the commandment to 'write them on the doorposts of your house and upon your gates.' The mezuzah sanctifies the home and serves as a constant reminder of God's presence and our commitment to His commandments.

A mezuzah is required on doorways that meet certain criteria: the doorway must have two doorposts and a lintel, be at least approximately 32 inches (80 cm) wide and 80 inches (200 cm) high, lead to a room of at least 36 square feet (4 square meters), be a permanent structure, be used for dignified living purposes, and be owned or rented by a Jew. Bathrooms, small closets, and temporary structures are generally exempt.

The mezuzah is placed on the right doorpost as you enter the room, in the upper third of the doorpost, within approximately 3 inches (8 cm) of the door frame's outer edge. Ashkenazi custom tilts the mezuzah with the top pointing inward (a compromise between vertical and horizontal opinions), while Sephardi custom places it vertically. The top of the scroll (where 'Shema' begins) should point toward the inside of the room.

Before affixing the first mezuzah, recite the blessing: 'Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech HaOlam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav v'tzivanu likboa mezuzah' ('Blessed are You... who commanded us to affix a mezuzah'). One blessing covers all mezuzot being affixed at that time. If putting up mezuzot on different occasions, say the blessing each time for the first one. After the blessing, affix the mezuzah firmly.

In Israel, mezuzot should be affixed immediately upon moving into a home. Outside Israel, there is a 30-day grace period for rented homes, but many have the custom to put them up right away. When buying a new home, affix mezuzot before or as soon as you move in. The obligation begins when you start using the home as your residence. Don't delay this special mitzvah that sanctifies your home.

Mezuzah scrolls should be checked twice in seven years to ensure they remain kosher - the letters can fade or crack over time. Some check more frequently. Take the mezuzah to a qualified scribe (sofer) for inspection. When removing a mezuzah for checking, some have the custom to replace it with another kosher mezuzah so the doorway is not left without one. Always purchase mezuzot from a reputable source to ensure they are properly written.