What are the Halachic requirements of a Mezuzah?

The Halachic requirements for a Mezuzah center around its placement on doorposts, which is integral to its purpose. A Mezuzah is a small case containing scrolls of parchment inscribed with specific verses from the Torah, primarily from the Shema, and is traditionally affixed to the right side of the doorframe in Jewish homes and certain buildings.

Displaying the Mezuzah on the doorposts fulfills the mitzvah (commandment) of ensuring that the words of the Torah are prominent in the lives of those residing within the home. This serves as a constant reminder of Jewish faith and commitment to God’s commandments as one enters and exits the space. The positioning on doorposts is not just a physical requirement, but also a symbolic act of inviting holiness into the home.

While there are specific guidelines regarding the inscription, material, and requirements for different types of homes, the core obligation revolves around its display on doorposts. Other choices do not align with Halachic principles, as the text must be in a specific format, it typically should be made from parchment rather than any material, and, most importantly, it is not optional but rather a requirement for homes that meet certain criteria in Jewish law.