Chief rabbi: Afraid? Don’t kiss mezuzot

Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel David Lau issued a ruling on Wednesday that people should stop kissing the mezuzah when they enter or depart Jewish homes.

A mezuzah is a scroll that contains the Shema, which declares the oneness of God. A mezuzah is enclosed in a small case. Mezuzot are attached to many of a dwelling’s doorposts.

“In these days, where sadly we see the spread of a terrible disease, there is no doubt that one should not kiss mezuzot or even touch them,” Lau wrote.

“It is enough for a person to reflect on the verses written in the scroll when he enters or departs from a place, and these thoughts will accompany him on his way.”

Under Jewish law, there is a distinction between a custom and a binding law that all must follow. Kissing the mezuzah is a Jewish custom.