A mezuzah is a religious object very characteristic of Jewish followers. It consists of two scrolls of parchment with handwritten passages from the Torah, specifically the Book of Deuteronomy. One passage is the prayer “Shema Yisrael” – meaning “Hear, O Israel,” while the other passage is God’s promise of His protection and blessing for those faithful to Him. The parchments are placed and sealed in a container, such as one made of wood, metal, or glass. Traditionally, a mezuzah is hung on the right exterior doorframe. Anyone entering a building should touch it with their fingers and then place it to their lips. This gesture was intended to remind the person not to sin. According to folk beliefs, a mezuzah protected the home from evil spirits and misfortune.
