Affixing a Mezuzah

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Traditionally, a mezuzah is affixed to every doorpost and gate of the household except the bathroom or similar places. Even in non-observant homes, it is common to place a mezuzah on the doorpost of the main entry. For more information, see Mezuzah.

Before affixing the mezuzah to the doorpost, the following blessing should be recited:

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ

Barukh atah Adonai
Blessed are you, Lord

אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם

Eloheinu, melekh ha'olam
our God, sovereign of the universe

אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו

asher kid'shanu b'mitzvotav
Who has sanctified us with His commandments

וְצִוָּנוּ לִקְבֹּעַ מְזוּזָה

v'tzivanu lik'bo'a m'zuzah
and commanded us to affix a mezuzah

The mezuzah should then be affixed to the upper third of the doorpost on the right side as one enters the house or room. If the doorpost is wide enough to permit, the mezuzah should be tilted with the upper part slanting inward toward the house or room, like this:

Mezuzah
Learn about the mezuzah, a traditional sign attached to the doorpost of Jewish houses

Signs and Symbols
Learn about various Jewish signs and symbols, including the mezuzah, tefillin, tzitzit and tallit, yarmulke, menorah, Star of David, and chai.

Common Prayers and Blessings
A list of common prayers and blessings that are available on this site for viewing online. Hebrew, transliteration, and English translation are available.

Prayers and Blessings
Learn about the importance of prayer in Judaism and the form and content of prayers and blessings.

Jewish Liturgy
Learn about the history and structure of the traditional Jewish prayer service.

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Affixing a Mezuzah

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