Shema and Amidah
The Major Jewish prayer affirming belief in one God. The Shema is found in Exodus 20:2-14, Deuteronomy and Numbers. and the One of the most important and most ancient prayers in Judaism, prayed in a standing position three times daily. Also called Tefillah (Prayer). are the two main prayers that Jews are likely to use.
The Shema
The Shema is regarded by many Jews as the most important prayer in Judaism. This is because it reminds them of the key principle of the faith - there is only one God. This is a Belief in one God. principle. This part of the Shema is taken from the Law; teaching. The word Torah can be used in a narrow sense to mean the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (The Five Books of Moses) and also in a wider sense to include the whole of the Hebrew Bible and the Talmud.: Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One.
(Deuteronomy 6:4).
The Shema also places emphasis on the An agreement or promise. that God made with the Jewish people, the need to follow the Commandments or laws in Judaism. and the importance of loving God.
Many Jews say the Shema three times a day: in the morning, in the evening and before they go to sleep.
The mezuzah
In many Jewish homes, the first two paragraphs of the Shema are written on a scroll and placed inside a mezuzah, which is nailed to a doorpost or gate. By touching the mezuzah every time they enter their home, Jews show their faith and love to God.
The Amidah
The Amidah is another important prayer in Judaism and is the central prayer used in worship services. It is often referred to as the ‘standing prayer’ as it is always recited while standing and facing The capital city of Israel when Jesus was alive. The city where he was crucified, buried and rose again..
This prayer consists of 19 blessings, which can be split into three sections:
- praising God
- asking for help
- thanksgiving
The Amidah is used in weekday services as well as in The seventh day of the week; a day of spiritual renewal and rest commencing at sunset on Friday and terminating at nightfall on Saturday. services.
Question
Which prayers are regarded as the two main prayers in Judaism?
Many Jews regard the Shema as the most important prayer in Judaism as it emphasises the key belief of Judaism - belief in one God (monotheism). Another important prayer within Judaism is the Amidah, which is made up of 19 blessings and includes praise and thanksgiving to God.
