What is that little thing Jewish people tack outside thier door?

Question

My super sweet neighbor gave me one for my new home- buy I didn't want to isult her by asking what it was
It's a small narrow plastic thing that I 'm supposed to tack in my door frame.

Is it a good thing that she gave this to me?

Answer 1

it is a mezuza, as the others have said.
if you're not jewish, I don't know why they'd give one to you. Its not something which gentiles are expected (or even allowed) to use! Though I'm sure the person had good intent in giving it to you.

However, do NOT throw it out. It is holy. Please try and send it to a rabbi (try chabad).

Answer 2

It's called a mezuzzah. It comes from the scripture that says to study God's laws, bind them to the hems of your garments and write them on your door posts. Having the mezuzzah on the doorpost is thought to be a fulfillment of this commandment. Inside is a parchment. If it is considered kosher, it has been hand written by a Jewish scribe. If it is not kosher, it might be printed. The kosher ones can be quite expensive in some cases. When you afix them to the door, most Jews will put it at a ******** angle. The reason for this was that the Rabbi's couldn't agree on whether it should be placed vertical or horizontal, so they compromised and thus the tradition was born to place it at the angle. Some Jews will touch it upon entering the house, not for good luck, but as a reminder of the words of the Law of Moses.

Answer 3

That is a Mezuzah.

In Judaism, a mezuzah (Hebrew מזוזה literally "doorpost", plural: mezuzot) is a small case affixed to the doorpost of Jewish homes, synagogues, and business establishments. The case generally features the Hebrew letter ש inscribed on its upper exterior, and serves to protect a small scrolled piece of parchment (called a klaf), on which is inscribed several Bible verses. Halakha (Jewish law) prescribes in detail the affixing of mezuzot on doorposts..

Answer 4

you've received good answers, though here's a link if you want to find out more ;)

Answer 5

Its for good luck, use it!