So what is a car Mezuzah?...

A Mezuzah is a parchment, or “klaf, with the Jewish prayer “Shema Yisrael” (Hear O Israel). This famous Jewish prayer is written by a “Sofer Stam”, a devout professional trained to handwrite the prayers with care and reverence, otherwise it is not kosher.

The traditional placement of the Mezuzah according to the ancient mitzvah on doorframes protects the inhabitants of the house or room with the exception of the bathroom.  The Hebrew letters on the Mezuzahs Shin-Dalet-Yod not only spell one of the names of God, “Shadai”, but it is also an acronym for “Shomer dlatot Israel” which means “Guardian of Israel’s doors”. 

The protective casing that holds the parchment is called the Mezuzot.  It can be designed and made from many types of strong materials.  The hanging of a mezuzah is a commandment for Jews, or Mitzvah, as a reminder of the presence of God and a means of protection over the residents and dwellers. 

Car Mezuzah is the latest trend in Judaica art

The latest trend in Judaic pieces is the car mezuzah.  It can be a means to display Jewish pride or to protect the driver on their journeys.  The decorative Mezuzot or Mezuzah cases are often inscribed with Hebrew letters and made with precious materials and precious stones.  A “sofer stam” handwrites a traveling prayer with the same devotion and importance as a home mezuzah. 

Choshen Car Mezuzah - available at Judaica 7

It is debated whether or not a car Mezuzah is necessary.  This leaves the decision to the owner to choose if they want to hang one in the car, place it on the dashboard, or carry it as a key chain.  The only certainty is that the car Mezuzah is for the car and cannot to be used for the home or office.  A purchase or gift of a car Mezuzah can bring peace of mind to the driver, the passengers, and their loved ones.

Modern Mezuzah cases and modern Judaica art

What is the purpose of the Mezuzah case?

Affixed to every door frame in a Jewish house, with the exception of bathrooms and storage rooms, there may be a rectangular case.  It may be made from metal, pewter, wood, ceramics, clay, or stone.  Designs of modern Mezuzah cases range from simple and functional to elaborate works of art.  Today, you can find many artistic and surprising designs by contemporary Jewish artists.

The purpose of a Mezuzah is to fulfill the Jewish mitzvah, or commandment.  The case itself protects the parchment, or “klaf, with the Jewish prayer “Shema Israel” but is not sacred on itself. The prayer is written by a “sofer stam” who has been professionally trained to handwrite the prayers with care and reverence.  The placement of the Mezuzah protects the inhabitants of the house or room.


Many Mezuzah cases display the letters Shin-Dalet-Yod.  Not only do they spell one of the names of God, “Shadai”, but it is also an acronym for “Shomer dlatot Israel” which means “Guardian of Israel’s doors”.

Modern Mezuzah cases make popular Jewish gifts

Jewish homeowners, whether they are devout or not religiously observant, will appreciate a gift of a mezuzah.  The case can suit any personal style or architectural doorframe.  It can feature drawings or different biblical verse inscriptions.  As a gift, it is appropriate for holidays or housewarmings and can be placed in almost any doorframe in the home, office, or apartment.

What if someone Already has Mezuzahs in the home?

It is better to have one Mezuzah for the front door, but every appropriate door frame in the home should have a Mezuzah in accordance to the mitzvah. If a friend or family member already has Mezuzahs for the home, a new one is not a wrong gift.  Its decorative qualities can update a décor or bring new color to a room.  A new and contemporary Mezuzah case can replace or upgrade a previous case with appreciation.