How to Hang a Mezuzah: Who, When, How & The Blessing
Affixing a mezuzah is a meaningful mitzvah that brings holiness to a Jewish home. While the process is straightforward, it should be done correctly and according to halachah. This guide explains who should install a mezuzah, when it can be installed, how it should be attached, and the proper blessing to recite.
Who should affix the mezuzah?
Whenever possible, the homeowner should personally affix the mezuzah and recite the blessing.
If that is not possible, another Jewish person who understands the relevant halachic requirements may install the mezuzah on the homeowner's behalf.
If you would like assistance, Rabbi Levi Backman provides in-home mezuzah installation throughout Miami and South Florida.
When can a mezuzah be installed?
A mezuzah may be installed during the day or at night.
However, it should not be affixed on Shabbat or on major Jewish holidays when melachah (prohibited work) is forbidden.
How should the mezuzah be attached?
The mezuzah should be attached securely and permanently to the doorpost.
The preferred methods are:
- Nails
- Screws
If necessary, it may also be attached using:
- Strong glue
- High-quality double-sided mounting tape
Temporary materials such as ordinary transparent tape or masking tape should not be used because they are not considered permanent.
The mezuzah blessing
When installing mezuzahs on more than one doorway in the same home, the blessing is generally recited only once.
Before attaching the first mezuzah, recite:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה׳ אֱלֹקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ לִקְבֹּעַ מְזוּזָה
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha'olam, asher kideshanu bemitzvotav vetzivanu likboa mezuzah.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to affix a mezuzah.
When is a blessing not recited?
A separate blessing is not recited when installing a mezuzah on entrances that are not biblically required to have one.
Examples include:
- Certain garages
- Certain storage rooms
- Doorways or archways without an actual door
- A room whose width is less than four cubits, even if its total area is at least sixteen square cubits
In these situations, first install a mezuzah on a doorway that clearly requires a blessing. Then continue installing the remaining mezuzahs, relying on that original blessing.
Need help with your mezuzahs?
Whether you are moving into a new home, replacing old mezuzahs, or simply want to make sure your mezuzahs are kosher and properly installed, Miami Mezuzah Center is here to help.
We provide:
Contact Miami Mezuzah Center to schedule an appointment.
Talk to Rabbi Levi
Have a question about your mezuzot or tefillin? WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach him.
WhatsApp +1 (845) 729-1459