How to Say the Shema

This prayer is the quintessential Jewish declaration of faith.

The Shema is the quintessential Jewish declaration of faith in God. It’s traditionally recited with the hands covering the eyes.

Rabbi Mikey Stein teaches Judaic studies at the Abraham Joshua Heschel High School in New York City.

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This prayer traditionally recited immediately upon awakening thanks God for the return of the soul.

An affirmation of God’s singularity, its daily recitation is regarded by traditionally observant Jews as a biblical commandment.

This poem about God's majesty is recited both before and after services.

The pursuit of proper kavanah, the Hebrew term for directed attention, has long concerned Jewish thinkers.

The simple words of this traditional morning blessing draw us back to the dawn of our mythic creation.

Jewish tradition calls for the washing of hands every morning, which serves as a reminder to use them for holy purposes.

Starting the day with gratefulness opens the heart to the blessing of wonder.

Lighting the candles, saying Kiddush and other Shabbat dinner rituals.