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Mezuzah — The Basics

Two passages on one piece of parchment, and what separates a written mezuzah from a printed copy.

The source "Inscribe them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates" (Deuteronomy 6:9). This is the source of the mitzvah of mezuzah.

The writing "The two passages, 'Shema' and 'Vehayah im shamoa,' are written on one column on a single piece of parchment," leaving space above and below (Shulchan Arukh, Yoreh De'ah 288:1). A mezuzah is written in STaM script with kosher ink and parchment — a printed sheet is not a mezuzah.

Inspection A mezuzah is more exposed than a Torah scroll to humidity and sun, and its letters can deteriorate. It is customary to have mezuzot checked periodically by a scribe.

Note: Educational content. Affixing, placement and blessing follow a rabbi's instruction.

This article is written for study and orientation only, based on the cited sources, and is not a halachic ruling. For a practical question, consult a rabbi.