Definition

Noun: 1. A small parchment scroll inscribed with specific Hebrew verses from Deuteronomy, placed in a case and affixed to the doorpost of a Jewish home: A mezuza (also spelled mezuzah) is a ritual object in Judaism. It consists of a handwritten parchment scroll containing the biblical passages Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21, which is then placed inside a protective case. This case is traditionally attached to the right-hand doorpost of rooms within a Jewish household, in fulfillment of a religious commandment (mitzvah).

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Every time they enter the house, they touch the mezuza on the doorpost.
  • The mezuza serves as a constant reminder of Jewish faith and identity within the home.
  • He carefully checked the parchment inside the mezuza to ensure it was still kosher.

Advanced Usage

• "To affix a mezuza": The act of attaching the to the doorpost, often accompanied by a special blessing.
  • The family invited friends over to celebrate when they affixed the mezuza to their new home.

Variants and Related Words

• Mezuzah (n): The most common alternate spelling of .
• Klaf (n): The specially prepared parchment on which the text is handwritten by a scribe ().
• Shema (n): The central prayer of Judaism, which begins with the first verse (Deuteronomy 6:4) contained within the .

Synonyms

• Doorpost scroll: A descriptive term for the object.
• Amulet (in a cultural/anthropological context): While the is a religious commandment, its function as a protective symbol on the doorway is sometimes compared to an amulet in scholarly discussions. (Note: This is not a theological synonym within Judaism.)

Related Phrases

• "Kissing the mezuza": A common custom where individuals touch the with their fingers and then kiss their fingers as they pass through the doorway.
  • It is his habit to kiss the mezuza when he leaves for work.

Related Concepts

• Mitzvah (n): A commandment or good deed in Jewish law. Affixing a is considered a .
• Doorpost (n): The vertical frame of a door. The is attached to the doorpost (specifically, the right side as one enters).

Noun

1. religious texts from Deuteronomy inscribed on parchment and rolled up in a case that is attached to the doorframe of many Jewish households in accordance with Jewish law