Lettering Styles

Question:

I recently learned about the concept of Mezuzot and I’m totally into it! My question is, should I buy Ashkenazi, Sephardi, or Chabad Mezuzot and what’s the difference between them?

Answer:

Congratulations! Affixing Mezuzot on your doorways is an important step to take in your Judaism journey.

The only difference between Ashkenazi, Sephardi, or Chabad is the lettering style. The actual content of all Mezuzot is always the same.

Ashkenazim (Jews originating from Europe) generally write in the style described by the Rabbi Yosef Karo (16th century) in his book "Bet Yosef".

Chasidic communities with Ashkenazi roots generally follow the tradition of the great Kabbalist Rabbi Yitzchak Luria, known as the "Ari" (16th century). This style is a variation on the Bet Yosef script, with slight differences depending on the letter.

Chabad Chasidim write with their own script, based on the views of Chabad's founder, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi.

Sephardim, (Jews whose origins are based in North Africa and West Asia) have their own lettering style, known as Velish.

There is a broad price range among Mezuzot. Price differences are based on the Halachic and aesthetic quality of the scrolls and the reputation of the Sofer (scribe).