Values Forum: Family Programs

Traditions - New Homes

"We moved several times when I was young. I remember the family gathering each time as the mezuzah was attached to the new doorpost. In our family we have given the ceremony a new twist; besides attaching the traditional mezuzah, we also attach a small container containing a blessing on our new home composed by each member of the family. Because my wife is a potter, the container is ceramic and resembles the mezuah. I see no reason why the idea couldn't be adapted by other families to include small wooden containers, like those that hold small wooden match sticks, for example, or tiny purchased baskets or whatever. The important part is the thought and good wishes composed by the family members. The families needn't be Jewish."
JKS, male, Minneapolis, Minnesota

For those unfamiliar with "the traditional mezuzah", it is a small container, about 4 inches and generally decorative ceramic which contains a rolled parchment inscribed with several passages from Deuteronomy (6:4-9 and 11:13-21). These passages affirm the unity and love of God. The container is open enough to reveal a single word written on the back of the tiny scroll. The word is Shaddai which means Almighty. The mezuzah is attached to the upper right hand of the doorpost in Jewish homes to honor the commandment found in Deuteronomy 6:9 "And thou shalt write them on the doorpost of thy home."