How To

How to Pick a Mezuzah Case

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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A mezuzah brings a Jewish atmosphere into a home while fulfilling one of the most important Torah commandments. A mezuzah is a small parchment scroll containing Biblical verses. It is usually enclosed in a decorative case and then hung on the right side of a doorway. A mezuzah is thought to protect a family against danger and to bring wealth and health to a home. After you have purchased a mezuzah scroll, you will want to select a decorative case to go with it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Decide whether you want mezuzah cases to match the decor of your home or if you want a variety of mezuzah cases. You need not match, unless you want to, but can purchase mezuzahs that have a unique design.

  2. Step 2

    Visit Judaica shops or online sources to get an idea of the kind of mezuzah cases you would like to purchase. You will need a mezuzah for every doorway of your home (except the bathroom), so keep this in mind when browsing for a mezuzah case.

  3. Step 3

    Choose some cases which are more decorative and others which are more basic if cost is an issue. You can place your special, hand-painted mezuzahs by the front door and the dining room, where they are more visible, and put your less expensive mezuzahs on garage doors and on doorways leading to back rooms.

  4. Step 4

    Make sure your mezuzah case is the right size for your mezuzah. Measure your mezuzah at home or take it with you to the store to ensure the scroll will fit the case.

  5. Step 5

    Check to see how your mezuzah case will be fastened to the wall. Some can be placed with sticky tape, while others require hammer and nails. If your wall is constructed of wood that can easily split, choose the type mezuzah case that can be taped.

  6. Step 6

    Buy a few extra mezuzah cases to keep as gifts when you suddenly remember a friend's birthday party or are invited to a special occasion.

  7. Step 7

    Create your own mezuzah cases out of wood or ceramics if you like crafts. You can save money, involve your children and have fun.

Tips & Warnings
  • Consult a rabbi on how to affix a mezuzah properly to a doorpost.
  • Avoid buying your scroll along with your mezuzah case, especially if the scroll cannot be removed easily. You will need to be able to check your mezuzahs, and many scrolls sold with the cases are just "filler" and are not kosher.
  • Do not attempt to nail a mezuzah case to a doorpost made of wood that will split easily.
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