"Kiss the Mezuzah" Top 5 Page for this destination Israel Local Custom Tip by gilabrand

A mezuzah (plural: mezuzot) is a decorated case containing a strip of parchment inscribed with Hebrew verses from the Bible (Deuteronomy 6:4-9; 11:12-21). Mezuzot are affixed to the doorpost of Jewish homes.

In Israel, you will see them everywhere, on the doors of homes, offices, shops, and even the security entrance to the Western Wall. The inscribed verses are from the Shema prayer, which begins with the words "Hear Oh Israel." The parchment is prepared by a scribe, or "sofer stam" who has undergone many years of meticulous training, and the verses are written in black ink with a special quill pen. The Hebrew word "Shaddai" is inscribed on the back of the parchment, which is then rolled up and placed inside the mezuzah case.

If the mezuzah is for an outside door, the parchment may be covered in cling wrap to protect it from the elements. These texts, written in minute handwriting, can be quite expensive, depending on the beauty of the calligraphy.

Some families place a mezuzah only on the front door, but observant Jews hang one on every doorway in the home except for the bathroom. When they enter the house, many people "kiss the mezuzah" by kissing their fingers and reaching up to touch the mezuzah, which is usually placed at an accessible height as you enter the door.

Nowadays, the mezuzah is a kind of good luck charm. You will find them on sale in every shape and size, made from a mind-boggling assortment of materials. The tourist shops even carry miniature magnetic mezuzot to hang in your car...