Shema
The Shema is a central declaration of faith in Judaism. The term derives from the Hebrew word shama, meaning hear or listen. Its opening verse, Deuteronomy 6:4, proclaims: Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is One. The Shema is traditionally understood as a creed that emphasizes monotheism and the obligation to love God and to teach these principles to future generations.
Traditionally, the Shema comprises three biblical passages read as a single unit in Jewish liturgy: Deuteronomy
In practice, the Shema is recited daily in the morning and evening services and may be said