A Mezuzah of the Future (Passage Through Darkness into the Light)

Mezuzah—a history and origin

Mezuzah is one of the important symbols in Judaism, stemming directly from biblical commandments. The command to place mezuzot on doorposts comes from the Book of Deuteronomy (6:4-9 and 11:13-21) and is part of the Sh’ma Yisrael prayer, the main declaration of faith in Judaism. The passage instructs the Israelites to "write them on the doorposts of your home and on your gates" (Deut. 6:9). According to tradition, this biblical commandment was adopted as a religious obligation and a hallmark of a Jewish home.

Meaning and symbolism

Mezuzah serves as a reminder to the household members to observe the commandments. Home is the most important institution in Judaism, and a mezuzah reminds its inhabitants of their obligations to G-d. It also expresses Jewish identity and the continuity of tradition and faith. 

The scroll of parchment, known as a klaf, which is placed inside a mezuzah, contains biblical verses hand-written by a qualified sofer (scribe of sacred texts). The text must be written according to specific rules, and even the smallest deviation from these rules renders the mezuzah non-kosher (unsuitable for religious use).

Mezuzot are placed on the right doorpost of the main entrance and on the doorposts of all rooms of the house where daily life occurs, except for toilets. They should be mounted at one-third of the height from the top of the doorpost, ideally at a 45-degree angle, with the upper end pointing toward the interior of the room. If the doorpost is narrow, the mezuzah can be placed vertically.

Placing a mezuzah on the doorpost is a mitzvah (commandment) and, therefore, a specific blessing is recited just before affixing it. After purchasing a new home or apartment, new owners often hold a ceremony called chanukat ha-bait (Hebrew for "dedication of the home"), a gathering where, together with invited guests, they joyfully place the mezuzah on the entrance door. It’s common to touch the mezuzah with one’s fingers upon entering or leaving the home, as a sign of respect for the mitzvah and a belief in the spiritual protection of the home.

Due to the fact that mezuzot can wear out over time, tradition dictates that they should be regularly inspected for damage. Jewish religious law mandates checking the mezuzah twice within a seven-year period, though more traditional people may do so even more frequently.

Variety of Styles and Materials

Mezuzot can vary in style and materials depending on the region and cultural tradition. They can be made from wood, metal, glass, ceramics, and even more luxurious materials like silver, gold, or diamonds. The designs on mezuzot may feature plant or animal motifs, abstract patterns, as well as symbols associated with Judaism, such as the Star of David or the letter ‘shin’, which symbolizes one of the names of G-d.

Mezuzot today

Today, mezuzot remain an important symbol of Jewish identity and faith. They are not only a religious obligation but also a cultural heritage element that connects generations and highlights the uniqueness of Jewish tradition. A Mezuzah of the Future contributes to educating about the historical and religious significance of mezuzot while also promoting intercultural dialogue.

Majk Hercberg—born in 1981 in the Mokotów district of Warsaw is a Polish artist of Jewish origin, composer, co-author of lyrics, musician, goldsmith, sculptor, stage technician and graphic artist. In the late 1990s he was involved in the activities of the Jewish Community in Warsaw, including numerous seminars related to Jewish culture. Author of the Doors Open: MezuzaH project at the Isaac Synagogue in Kraków as part of the 7@nite: Synagogues at Night festival. The exhibition presented the mezuzahs, handcrafted by the artist from bronze, brass, silver, and wood. From 2002 to 2011, Majk worked as an assistant in the sculpture and applied arts studio of W. Józefowicz; since 2006, he has been involved in jewellery design at Majkart and JOJ. To this day, he primarily creates small forms inspired by new and fresh Jewish culture. For over two decades, he played as a bassist in various bands (Murgost, BMW, Black River Tails, Noko, Headfirst, Plan, Antigama, Dante, Blindead), and participated in musical and theatre projects.