Chazal teach us that Batei Knesses are exempt from the requirement of Mezuzah.  There are several reasons for this exemption.  One reason is that a shul is not a house of dwelling (which is implied by the phrase “Al Mezuzos Beisecha”), but rather a house of Kedusha (similar to the Bais Hamikdash, which did not have Mezuzos for this reason).  Another reason why a Shul would be exempt from Mezuzah is that it does not have a specific owner – once again, not meeting the criteria of “beisecha” (“your” house).   

These reasons would obviously directly impact the status of our shuls, schools, and Yeshivos.  Yet, there are almost no Shuls in the USA (with the exception of Khal Adath Jeshurun  -Washington Heights, and Khal Adas Yereim Vien - Boro Park, and perhaps several others) that do not have Mezuzos.  Why?  Are they obligated, or did times change?  When affixing a Mezuzah on such a building, does one recite a Bracha?

 Some of the questions discussed:

• ·         Is there a difference between a Bais Haknesses and a Bais Medrash?
• ·         Do different types of shuls have different levels of Mezuzah requirement?
• ·         Does it matter who the Shul belongs to (i.e., Chasidic Rebbe, Rosh Yeshivah, philanthropist)?
• ·         What if a Shul also contains living quarters, for example the shamash’s house?
• ·         What if people eat in the Shul (or sleep/nap)?
• ·         How about a Talmud Torah building?
• ·         A room in the house that is designated for learning (study)?