How to Affix a Mezuzah (Downloadable PDF)

How to Affix a Mezuzah Step 1: Get a klaf Make sure that your mezuzah has a kosher klaf (the little piece of paper inside the mezuzah.) The klaf should not be a photocopy, but a true piece of parchment written by a sofer, or scribe. The klaf is what makes the mezuzah holy, because it contains the words from Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 11:13-21 which include the Shema and the commandment, “And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Step 2: Insert klaf into the case If needed, roll the klaf up so that the main text is inside and the letters “Shin, Daled, Yud” face outward and upright. You can wrap a small piece of wax paper around the klaf to protect it. Step 3: Mark the spot ! The mezuzah is affixed on the RIGHT SIDE of the door as you walk in. ! The best way to find the correct height is to measure the door, divide it into three even sections, and attach it at the bottom area of the TOP section, roughly two-thirds of the way up the door — about shoulder height. (see example.) The rule is that it should be in the top third of the doorway, but at least one hand's width below the top. ! The mezuzah should be slanted, with the top going INTO the room. ! It should be affixed in a sturdy, permanent way — it should not be loosely attached. Step 4: Bless and Affix You are now ready to perform the mitzvah of affixing the mezuzah. The blessing is recited once, before putting up the mezuzah. If you are putting up more than one, you will put up the first mezuzah on the most important doorway--your front door, so that's where you should be standing, mezuzah and tools in hand. As you recite the blessing, keep in mind that it applies to all the mezuzahs you will be presently affixing in your home. Recite the blessing: Baruch Atah A-do-nai, Elo-heinu melech haolam, asher kideshanu bemitzvotav vetzivanu likboa mezuzah. Blessed are you, Adonai our God, Ruler of the Universe, Who has sanctified us with His mitzvot and commanded us to affix a mezuzah. Step 5: Additional blessings, poems and/or readings may be added to this ceremony. Please note that the “Shehecheyanu” blessing is usually not recited for affixing mezuzot. .

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