Prayers & Creeds · Jewish

Shema

Judaism's central affirmation of the one God, drawn from Deuteronomy 6:4 and recited morning and evening.

Creed · Jewish · Hebrew · daily

Tagged: Creeds and Confessions Daily Prayer Scripture Jewish

The Text

Historical Context

The Shema takes its name from its first word, "Hear," and its opening line comes from Deuteronomy 6:4. In Jewish life it functions as Israel's confession of faith: a declaration of loyalty to the one God rather than a systematic statement of doctrine. The full recitation adds further passages from Deuteronomy and Numbers, including the command to love God with all one's heart, soul, and strength, and the commandments concerning tefillin, mezuzah, and teaching the words to one's children.

Use and Practice

The Shema is recited twice daily, in the morning and evening prayers, and traditionally as the last words before sleep and before death. Its first line is spoken with concentrated attention, often with the right hand covering the eyes.

References

• My Jewish Learning — The Shema Free / open access
• Bible Gateway — Deuteronomy 6 Free / open access

Related Prayers and Creeds

• Amidah — The standing prayer at the center of every Jewish prayer service, recited silently while standing.
• Kaddish — An Aramaic prayer sanctifying God's name, best known in its form recited by mourners.

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