Glossary

Mezuzah

A scroll with a Hebrew text in a protective case which is attached diagonally to the right-hand doorframe of a Jewish dwelling, based on an obligation laid down in Deuteronomy 6:4–9 and 11:13–21. The protective case is decorated where possible and is made of various materials, but mostly of metal and wood. The mezuzah case contains a parchment scroll with the Hebrew text of the above verses from Deuteronomy, which are written by a trained scribe. On the back of the scroll is written one of God’s names, Shaddai, which is usually visible through a small opening in the case. The height of the mezuzah (including the case) ranges between about 10 and 15 centimetres.