Likboa Mezuzah -

Blessing when Affixing a Mezuzah

Introduction

A mezuzah is a kosher parchment scroll (inscribed with Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21 on one side and the word Shaddai on the other side) that is rolled up and inserted into a decorative case. The case is then affixed to a doorway in fulfillment of the commandment given in Deuteronomy 11:20, "And thou shalt write them upon the doorposts (mezuzot) of thine house, and upon thy gates."

Mezuzah and Case

The word mezuzah is used as a noun 18 times in the Scriptures. The Israelites applied blood to the two mezuzot of their homes at the time of their liberation from Egypt, and the word is used to describe the gateposts of the Temple, both those built by Solomon and those envisioned by Ezekiel. As believers in the Messiah Jesus, the mezuzah can remind us that we too are bought with a price, and that our homes are dedicated to God.

Many mezuzot are beautiful pieces of artwork and are often given as housewarming gifts. The letter Shin often appears on the outside of the mezuzah case and stands for the Name of God: Shaddai (the Mighty). The three letters of the word Shaddai are said to be the initials of "Guardian of the doors of Israel" (shomer daltot yisrael):
Guardian of the house of Israel

Affixing a Mezuzah

In general, here are the steps required to dedicate your home with a mezuzah:

  1. Obtain a kosher mezuzah (available through a good Jewish bookstore).
  2. Select the desired doorway to the home.
  3. Make sure the upper third of the right door jamb is clear (the right side is determined from the point of view of entry into the room).
  4. Position the mezuzah on a slight angle pointing upward and toward the inside of the home (if the mezuzah cannot be put at a slant because the entry post is too narrow, it can be put upright).
  5. Recite Likbo'a Mezuzah (indicated below) and affix the mezuzah about shoulder level on the selected door post.
  6. The Shehecheyanu blessing is also said at this time.
     

Note: A mezuzah is normally put up within 30 days of moving into a new home or apartment, though any time is a good time to affix one that is missing!

Likbo'a Mezuzah Blessing

Recite the following blessing before affixing the mezuzah to the doorpost of your home:
Likbo’a Mezuzah

Download Hebrew Blessing:

Affixing a Mezuzah Blessing

Simchah: The Chanukat Habayit

After the mezuzah has been affixed, you can have a celebration regarding the dedication of the home. You may wish to read some additional material (Psalm 15 and Psalm 119 are often recited) or sing some songs. Some people will have an oneg of bread, salt and candles to initiate their new home. The bread represents the hope that there will always be enough food; the candles are a symbol of light and joy; and the salt is a reminder of the Temple sacrifices and tears shed for its destruction.
Touching a Mezuzah

Using the Mezuzah

Whenever you enter or leave the house, it is customary to touch the mezuzah (some Jews will "kiss" the mezuzah by touching it and then touching their lips). This reverence acknowledges the "Shema" and the duty of loving and serving God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Touching the mezuzah also reminds us that we are bought with a price -- namely, the blood of Yeshua our High Priest, and that our homes our dedicated to God.
Joshua 24:15

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