Shema

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A Jewish prayer that expresses the oneness of God and is a central declaration of faith in Judaism
2. A religious phrase affirming the belief in a singular divine being, significant in Jewish liturgy and practice
3. An important biblical verse recited as a testament to the unity of God, foundational in Jewish worship and identity

Etymology: "Shema" is the Hebrew imperative "shema" meaning "hear" or "listen," the first word of the verse in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Shema Yisrael, Adonai Eloheinu, Adonai echad" ("Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one"). English took the term directly from Hebrew, so the word is simply the opening command of the prayer, borrowed whole. The choice of that opening word is what gives the name its force. Because the verse begins with a call to attention rather than a statement of doctrine, the whole passage came to be known by its first word, a common practice for prayers and liturgical texts. Over time the single imperative came to stand for the entire declaration of faith it introduces.

Synonyms: Shema Yisrael, prayer