Volumne 16 Number 2
November/December 1999
Cheshvan/Kislev/Tevet 5759/5760

The Mighty Mezuzah

By Messianic Rabbi Barney Kasdan

It graces the doorway of the home of the traditional Jew. Even among many of the “non-observant”, the small metal or wood box can be found. It is sometimes so small it might even be overlooked by the unsuspecting visitor. What is it? Of course, it is the mezuzah which is an important part of Jewish custom and tradition. Don’t be fooled by it’s humble appearance. The saying that “good things come in small packages” would be most appropriate as one reflects on the background and meaning of this religious symbol. As with virtually all of Jewish customs, there is a deeper spiritual meaning behind the small container. The word “mezuzah” comes from the word meaning “doorpost” as our people were told from the days of Moses “Write them (the commandments) on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates” (Devorim/Deuteronomy 6:9). While we tend to think of the metal or wood box as the mezuzah, it is actually the parchment which it contains that is the important element. This tiny scroll contains the two relevant passages which call us to fulfill this mitzvah; namely, Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Deuteronomy11:13-21. In the ancient world, the mezuzah/doorpost was the place of identity. Many pagan cultures tried to protect their houses by placing certain charms or amulets at the doorpost. Even today, we often decorate our homes to reflect the things that we value and love. It should not surprise us, therefore, that G-d told our people that they were to be a people identified as belonging to Adonai and loving His commandments. What better place to proclaim this faith than on our own doorpost through the custom of mezuzah.

Contrary to the superstition of the pagans, the mezuzah is not a charm to ward off the evil spirits. It is instead a statement that this property acknowledges G-d and His Word as our protection and source of our faith. This truth is seen as one takes a closer look at the mezuzah. Often you can notice the Hebrew letter “shin” on the outside of the case. This represents the word “Shaddai” (Almighty) which is one of the holy names of G-d. Likewise, it is pointed out that the three letters which spell Shaddai represent an acronym for “Shomer Daltot Yisrael” (Watchman of the doors of Israel). Indeed, it is not the mezuzah itself which possesses such power but the mezuzah reminds us to keep our faith in our Heavenly Father who watches over us.

Every time we pass a mezuzah we should remember that we have a covenant with the living G-d. How often we forget in the flurry of activity we call life! Yet the humble mezuzah stands as a testimony that our lives will be most fully blessed when we walk in the Word which was given to Israel, both Tenach and New Covenant. By affixing a mezuzah, we are saying that this house and this family belong to Adonai. As Joshua so beautifully said, “As for me and my house, we will serve the L-rd” (Yehoshua/Joshua 24:15). What about your household? Have you appreciated the rich spiritual lessons to be found in the mighty mezuzah?

**Editor’s Note: For more information regarding the mezuzah or other Jewish customs, check out Rabbi Kasdan’s book, God’s Appointed Customs, by Lederer Publications. Available at the KA bookstore.

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Last Modified November 4, 1999