The Mezzuzah

[i]





[ii]







Mezzuzot (plural of mezzuzah) can also be works of art.   Because Jewish Tradition emphasizes the art of living and deemphasizes representative art, Jewish visual artistry has traditionally focused on calligraphy and on beautifying ritual objects.   There is a principle that commandments should be ful­filled in the most beautiful way possible. [iv] We should max­imize the delight in their perfor­mance.   A counterbalancing principle holds that the intention of doing a mitzvah (fulfilling a divine commandment) should itself be the greatest possible delight.[v] In any case, Jews appreciate beautiful ritual objects, even though the simplest examples have un­equalled beauty in their purpose.  

Mezzuzot can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and designs -- from playful ceramic animals for children's rooms, to exquisite silver and glass creations for adult apprecia­tion.   The parchment inside a mezzuzah always reflects the holy intent and concentration of the scribe.   Mezzuzot on exterior doorposts and in public buildings are likely to have simple inexpensive cases.

--- adapted from "The Synagogue Survival Kit" by Jordan Lee Wagner, publ. by Rowman & Littlefield. 1997.