Question from Ethan Shapiro:
Hello Rabbi Joshua,
I’ve noticed something intriguing in Jewish households and even in movies – when entering or leaving a room, Jews often touch and then kiss their fingers to the doorway. I’m curious to learn more about this practice. Could you explain why Jews kiss the door?
The Significance of the Mezuzah
Dear Ethan,
Thank you for your thoughtful inquiry. What you have observed is a deeply rooted practice in Judaism, and it is not exactly the door that Jews are kissing, but rather a mezuzah. A mezuzah is a small piece of parchment, inscribed with specific Hebrew verses from the Torah (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21). These verses compose the Jewish prayer Shema Yisrael and express the fundamental Jewish belief in the oneness of God.
This parchment is placed inside a decorative case and affixed to the doorpost of Jewish homes. This act is a mitzvah — a commandment — as written in the Torah: “And you shall write them on the doorposts (mezuzot) of your house and on your gates” (Deuteronomy 6:9, 11:20).
Touching and Kissing the Mezuzah
When a Jew touches the mezuzah upon entering or leaving a room or building, it is a physical demonstration of their awareness and reverence for God’s presence. The act of kissing the fingers that touched the mezuzah is a further expression of love and respect for the divine commandments housed within it.
This gesture serves as a reminder of our covenant with God, the mitzvot that guide our daily lives, and God’s protective presence in our homes. It’s a moment of reflection, appreciation, and spiritual connection, a physical manifestation of the verse from Psalms 84:11, “For a sun and shield is the LORD God, grace and glory does He give.”
In Hebrew, the act is often referred to as נשיקת המזוזה (Neshikat HaMezuzah). It is a custom that spans across many Jewish communities, regardless of their level of observance. It is also customary to touch the mezuzah when one is in need of a reminder of God’s proximity or in search of comfort and protection.
Concluding Thoughts
Ethan, I hope this sheds light on the beautiful tradition you have observed. It is one of many that enrich the Jewish faith and the lives of its followers, weaving a tapestry of ritual and spirituality into the fabric of everyday life. May your exploration of Jewish traditions continue to bring you insight and understanding.
Shalom,
Rabbi Joshua
