What Is Written Inside a Mezuzah Scroll?

Inside every mezuzah case is a small handwritten parchment known as a mezuzah scroll. This scroll contains specific passages from the Torah written in Hebrew according to detailed traditional rules. While the decorative case may vary widely in design, the scroll itself follows a precise and consistent format.

Understanding what is written inside a mezuzah scroll helps explain the meaning behind the tradition of placing mezuzahs on the doorposts of Jewish homes.

The Two Torah Passages in a Mezuzah

A mezuzah scroll contains two passages from the Book of Deuteronomy. These passages form part of the prayer known as the Shema and emphasize the connection between Jewish faith and daily life.

The passages are:

• Deuteronomy 6:4–9
• Deuteronomy 11:13–21

These verses speak about devotion to God, the teaching of these values to future generations, and the commandment to place these words on the doorposts of the home.

The Opening Words: The Shema

The first passage begins with the well-known declaration of faith known as the Shema. These opening words affirm the unity of God and form one of the most central statements in Jewish prayer.

The passage continues by encouraging individuals to remember these teachings in daily life and to pass them on through learning and discussion.

The Commandment of the Doorposts

Within these passages appears the instruction that gives rise to the mezuzah itself. The text instructs that these words should be written on the doorposts of the home and on the gates.

This instruction forms the foundation of the tradition of placing mezuzahs on doorways.

How the Text Is Written

The Hebrew text in a mezuzah scroll is written by a trained scribe known as a sofer. The writing follows strict guidelines governing letter formation, spacing, and layout.

The text must be written clearly and carefully on specially prepared parchment known as klaf.

For a deeper explanation of the requirements for a valid mezuzah parchment, see What Makes a Mezuzah Scroll Kosher?.

The Name Written on the Reverse Side

On the reverse side of many mezuzah scrolls appears the Hebrew name “Shaddai.” This name is associated with divine protection and is traditionally written on the back of the parchment.

The presence of this name has become closely associated with mezuzahs and is sometimes represented by the Hebrew letter shin on the outer case.

The Scroll and the Mezuzah Case

The parchment scroll is rolled and placed inside a protective mezuzah case that is attached to the doorpost. While the case protects the scroll and allows for decorative expression, the scroll itself is the essential component.

To learn how mezuzahs are placed throughout a home, see Where Should a Mezuzah Be Placed? Room-by-Room Guide.

Summary

A mezuzah scroll contains two passages from the Torah, both taken from the Book of Deuteronomy and forming part of the Shema prayer. These verses include the commandment to place these words on the doorposts of the home. Carefully handwritten on parchment by a trained scribe, the scroll represents the core spiritual element of the mezuzah tradition.