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Shema

The daily Jewish confession from Deuteronomy 6:4-5 — "Hear, O Israel: the LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, soul, and might."

"Shema" is the Hebrew imperative "hear." It is the opening word of Israel's great confession of monotheism and total devotion to God.

Faithful Jews recited it morning and evening, bound it on their hand and forehead (tefillin), and wrote it on their doorposts (mezuzah).

Jesus called the Shema the greatest commandment, joining it to neighbor-love (Mark 12:29-31).

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Original BibleDawn entry. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.