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.
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