קולטור

Mezuzes on the Doorposts

In this movie, as Nomi builds a model house, Moby suggests that she add a tiny model mezuze. A mezuze (often spelled mezuzah) is a piece of rolled parchment with passages from the biblical book of Deuteronomy—⁠known as the “Shema”—⁠written on it, which is then covered by a case.

The mezuze is placed on the doorposts of homes. This ancient and widespread Jewish tradition is mentioned in the biblical verse: “And you shall write them [the words of the Shema] on the doorposts of your house.” The mezuze is placed on the right side of the doorpost, entering a home or room, at about shoulder’s height. The case covering the parchment is often decorative and can be considered something like a work of art.

Over time, other customs have been added to the practice of affixing mezuzes to doorposts. Some people touch the mezuze and then kiss their hand as they pass the threshold. Additionally, the mezuze is traditionally considered to have protective qualities, safeguarding the entire home and everyone who resides within it.