THE MEZUZAH

(The doorpost)

A MARK OF DISTINCTION


Hear oh lsrael: The Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your heart. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. "Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates."

(Deuteronomy 6:4-9.)



This scripture (the 'shema') along with Deuteronomy 11:13-21 (vehayah im shamo'a) is taken very literally by the Jewish people. It is written on a small parchment scroll, and placed inside the Mezuzah Case. The Hebrew word Shaddai (Almighty) or its initial, the letter "Shin" is written on the outside of the case. The Mezuzah is then fastened on the doorpost on the right side as you enter. This small case is attached to the upper third of the doorpost, usually in a slanting position.

The Mezuza designates the house as a Jewish household who believes and follows the commandments of GOD. It is a declaration of our faith. When we enter our home we are spiritually, as well as literally, crossing the threshold into a sanctuary of the LORD. It is a wonderful testimony to our friends and neighbors. As they enter our home they are reminded of our love of God and of HIS Torah as a way of life.