Halacha On - Line

In Memory of Rabbi Dov Ber Rosenblum z''l, a dedicated Torah scholar whose greatest love was the study and clarification of Halacha

Laws of the Mezuza, part 1 vol.2 no.1

In order to properly fulfill the mitzva of mezuza it is critical to determine to which buildings / rooms this mitzva applies. Several factors influence this determination :

  1. The Torah describes this mitzva as pertaining to "baisecho - your houses". Any building or room which serves some "house-like" function is a candidate for this obligation. Included in this would be most rooms within one's home. Even storage rooms, especially those which are frequented regularly, are considered to serve household functions and are included in this mitzva. Similarly, a garage, if used for more than merely housing a car, would qualify for this obligation. Buildings or rooms which serve primarily as places of business or profession are subject to halachic dispute. Proper halachic guidance should be sought regarding such situations.
  2. As the mezuza is an article of immense holiness, it is inappropriate for it to be placed on a door leading to a room or building which is used for non-dignified purposes. Accordingly, no mezuza should be placed on the doorway of a bathroom. However, if a room serves both dignified and non-dignified functions (e.g. a baby's room in which diapers are regularly changed) a mezuza is required. The status of the modern-day laundry room is questionable. If the room is not used for washing soiled diapers or the like, the doorway does deserve a mezuza according to many authorities.
  3. For a room to qualify for mezuza, it must measure at least four by four 'amos ' (cubits) - approximately forty square feet. It should be noted that some large walk-in closets meet this dimension.

As the regulations relating to the brocha on mezuza are complex, it is advisable to seek halachic guidance prior to afixing the mezuza.

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