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What Is A Mezuzah?

A mezuzah mounted on the doorpost designates the home as Jewish, reminding us of our connection to G‑d and to our heritage. A mezuzah is not, contrary to popular belief, the outer container. The mezuzah is actually the parchment scroll within, on which the "Shema" — a biblical passage declaring the oneness of G‑d — is handwritten by an expert scribe. The mezuzah is also a symbol of G‑d's watchful care over the home. The name of G‑d, Sha-dai, which appears on the reverse side of the parchment, is an acronym for the Hebrew words which mean "Guardian of the doorways of Israel." The placing of a mezuzah on the doors of a home or office protects the inhabitants — whether they are inside or outside.