Shema

The Shema is a short prayer that comes from the Torah, the sacred Jewish text. It is a way for Jewish people to express their love and devotion to God. The prayer goes like this:

• "Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One."

This prayer reminds Jewish people that there is only one God and that they should love and worship God with all their heart and soul. The word "Shema" means "listen" or "hear" in Hebrew. It is a call to pay attention and listen carefully to the words of the prayer.

When saying the Shema, Jewish people often place their hand over their eyes to help them focus and concentrate on the words. The Shema is often recited as part of the daily prayers and during special religious services. It is also said at home, before going to bed, and when waking up in the morning. Some Jewish people even say the Shema as their last words before they go to sleep at night. The Shema is a way for Jewish people to remember their connection to God and to remind themselves of the important teachings of Judaism. It teaches them to have faith, to be thankful, and to strive to live a good and moral life.

So, the Shema is a powerful prayer in Judaism that reminds Jewish people of the oneness of God and encourages them to listen, have faith, and love God with all their heart and soul.