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In Deuteronomy 6, God tells us to keep His words constantly in our minds and on our hearts by writing them on the doorposts of our houses. Jewish followers of Rabinic Judaism have a beautiful custom to serve as a constant reminder of this instruction. We invite you to learn more and participate in this practice as a sign that you are building your house on God’s word.
These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. — Deuteronomy 6:6-9 NIV
What Is a Mezuzah?
A mezuzah is a small, decorative case in which you place a scroll consisting of the passage found in Deuteronomy 6. In Hebrew, the word ‘mezuzah’ means ‘doorpost.’ Most commonly, a mezuzah is attached to the right-hand side of the doorframe at the entrance of the home, and it may also be attached to the doorframes of particular rooms within the home. When you attach a mezuzah to a doorway of your home, it is a sign that you are building your house on God’s word.
Deuteronomy 6:4-6 Scroll
This scroll includes a portion of the full passage, known as the Shema, that is traditionally handwritten for mezuzahs in Jewish households. This scroll is to be rolled and placed inside of the mezuzah casing.
How to Use a Mezuzah
- Download and print the Deuteronomy 6:4-6 Scroll.
- Roll the scroll from left to right, and place it inside of the mezuzah casing.
- Peel the backing off of the mezuzah casing.
- Place the mezuzah on the outside or inside of your front door, or at the entrance to another room such as your living room, kitchen, or bedroom.
- The mezuzah should be attached to the upper third of the right-hand side of the doorframe with the top of it angled inward toward the interior of the house or room.
- Pray a prayer of blessing over your home and your family.
