Understanding Mezuzah Placement: Right Side of the Door

r

The mezuzah is an important religious symbol in Judaism. Placing it on the right side of the door is a tradition based on specific religious laws. However, proper placement is crucial to ensure adherence to these guidelines. This article explores the correct placement of a mezuzah, the importance of the right side, and the blessings involved.

Introduction to Mezuzah

r

A mezuzah is a small case containing a parchment scroll with verses from the Hebrew Bible, specifically the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21). Traditionally, it is placed on the right side of the doorframe as one enters a room or a building. This placement serves as a constant reminder of faith and the commandments.

Placement Guidelines

r

The mezuzah should be placed on the upper third of the doorpost and should be angled such that the top of the mezuzah points toward the room. It is usually placed on the right-hand doorframe from the outside, which also ensures it leans slightly to the right as one faces the door.

Doors Requiring a Mezuzah

r

A mezuzah is typically placed on the right doorpost of entry doors and any other doors that lead into a room, excluding bathrooms. For kitchens with sliding doors, the mezuzah should be placed on the door that is closest to the dining area or the room.

Proper Mounting Techniques

r

To mount a mezuzah, it is best to use nails or screws. Double-sided mounting tape or glue can be used if necessary, but avoid using temporary adhesives like scotch tape or masking tape. The mezuzah should be at least a hand's breadth from the top of the doorpost to ensure it does not come off easily.

The Blessing

r

When hanging a mezuzah for the first time or for more than one doorway in a house, a blessing should be recited. The blessing varies slightly depending on whether additional mezuzot are being placed.

Reciting the Blessing

r tFor the first mezuzah or a house with multiple doorways:
tt

Baruch Ata A-do-nai Elo-heinu Melech Haolam asher kideshanu bemitzvotav vetzivanu likboa mezuza.

ttTranslation: Blessed are You Lrd our Gd King of the universe who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to affix a mezuzah. tFor subsequent mezuzot without a blessing needed:
tt

Baruch Ata A-do-nai Elo-heinu Melech Haolam asher kideshanu bemitzvotav vesim dotenvu alikem mezuza.

ttTranslation: Blessed are You Lrd our Gd King of the universe who has sanctified us with His commandments and caused us to fulfill the mitzvah of placing the mezuzah.

Exclusions and Exceptions

r

Mezuzah placement is not required in certain non-Biblically required spaces. These include:

tGarages or storage rooms that lack a permanent door tDoorways or archways with no actual doors tRooms with a width less than 4 cubits but an area of at least 16 cubic feet

Conclusion

r

Total adherence to the correct placement of a mezuzah ensures that it serves its religious and symbolic purpose. Whether reciting the correct blessing or properly mounting the mezuzah, understanding these guidelines fosters a deeper appreciation for this traditional Jewish practice.