WHERE IS MEZUZAH PLACED?

The mezuzah is a small parchment scroll inscribed with verses from the Torah. It's a significant Jewish religious symbol that is placed on the doorposts of Jewish homes and businesses. It's a reminder of God's presence and protection, and a declaration of faith. Mezuzahs come in various sizes, materials, and designs, and their placement is governed by specific rules and traditions.

DOORPOST PLACEMENT

The mezuzah is typically placed on the right doorpost of an entrance. If you're facing the door, it goes on the right side, around eye level, and angled toward the interior of the home or building. This positioning ensures that everyone entering or leaving the space passes by the mezuzah, symbolically reminding them of God's presence and protection.

DOORPOST HEIGHT

The mezuzah's height on the doorpost is also significant. According to Jewish tradition, it should be placed one-third of the way down from the top of the doorpost. This placement is believed to be the most effective in warding off evil spirits and negative energy.

DOORPOST ANGLE

The mezuzah is placed at an angle on the doorpost, rather than flat against it. This is done to ensure that the mezuzah doesn't come in direct contact with any impure objects or substances. Additionally, the angle is believed to help the mezuzah "catch" blessings and positive energy entering the home.

MEZUZAH CASINGS

Mezuzahs are often enclosed in a decorative casing or housing. These casings are typically made of wood, metal, or plastic and serve several purposes. They protect the mezuzah from damage, add a touch of beauty and style to the doorpost, and make it easier to identify the mezuzah's location.

MEZUZAH INSPECTION

Mezuzahs should be inspected regularly to ensure they are intact and haven't been damaged. This inspection is typically done once a year, during the Hebrew month of Elul, which precedes the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. If a mezuzah is found to be damaged or worn, it should be replaced with a new one.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Why is the mezuzah placed on the right doorpost?

   Traditionally, the right doorpost is considered the most prominent and honored position in a home or building. Placing the mezuzah there symbolizes God's protection and blessings entering the space.

2. Can I place a mezuzah on any door in my home?

   While the mezuzah is typically placed on the right doorpost of an entrance, you can place it on any door in your home, except for the bathroom. The bathroom is considered an impure space, and the mezuzah should not be placed there.

3. What should I do if my mezuzah is damaged?

   If you find that your mezuzah is damaged or worn, you should replace it with a new one. You can purchase a new mezuzah from a Judaica store or online retailer.

4. How often should I inspect my mezuzah?

   It's a good practice to inspect your mezuzah once a year, during the Hebrew month of Elul, which precedes the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. This inspection will help you ensure that the mezuzah is intact and hasn't been damaged.

5. Is there a blessing that I should recite when placing a mezuzah?

   There is a traditional blessing that is recited when placing a mezuzah. The blessing is as follows: "Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with Your commandments and commanded us to affix the mezuzah."