The Shema is the most important prayer in Judaism because it reminds Jewish people that there is only one God. This special prayer is handwritten by a Sofer (scribe) with a quill and ink on parchment. It is then rolled up and placed inside a case. The case can be made out of different materials such as glass, wood, silver or clay. The case with the scroll inside is then hung on the doorposts of Jewish homes. Some Jewish people have a mezuzah only on the front door of their homes, while other Jewish people might have a mezuzah hung on all the doors inside and outside their homes. Some Jewish people might kiss their fingers and touch the mezuzah each time they walk past it as a reminder of the commandments and of God.

Watch this short clip to hear the Shema prayer.