The Shema is a foundational declaration of faith in Judaism and holds significant importance in Christian theology as well. The term "Shema" is derived from the Hebrew word for "hear," which is the first word of the passage found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9. This passage is central to Jewish prayer services and is recited twice daily as a commandment. It is also embraced by Christians as a profound expression of monotheistic faith and the call to love God wholly.

Biblical Text and Context

The Shema begins with Deuteronomy 6:4-5 : "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." This passage is part of Moses' final address to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. It serves as a reminder of their covenantal relationship with God and the exclusive devotion He requires.

Theological Significance

The Shema affirms the oneness of God, a core tenet of both Jewish and Christian monotheism. It emphasizes that the LORD (YHWH) is the sole deity, rejecting the polytheistic practices of surrounding nations. For Christians, this declaration is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus affirms the Shema as the greatest commandment (Mark 12:29-30): "Jesus replied, 'This is the most important: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’"

The Call to Love God

The Shema not only declares God's oneness but also commands a total love for Him. This love is comprehensive, involving the heart, soul, and strength. In biblical terms, the "heart" represents the center of one's emotions and will, the "soul" encompasses one's entire being, and "strength" implies all resources and capacities. This holistic devotion is a call to prioritize God above all else, influencing every aspect of life.

Practical Application

The Shema's call to love God is not merely an abstract concept but a practical directive. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 instructs: "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates." This passage underscores the importance of internalizing God's commandments and passing them on to future generations. It encourages believers to integrate their faith into daily life, ensuring that love for God is evident in actions and decisions.

New Testament Reflection

In the New Testament, the Shema's call to love God is expanded to include love for one's neighbor. Jesus links the command to love God with the command to love others, stating in Mark 12:31 : "The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these." This dual commandment encapsulates the essence of Christian ethics, where love for God naturally extends to love for others.

Conclusion

The Shema and the call to love God remain central to the faith and practice of both Jews and Christians. It is a timeless reminder of God's singularity and the comprehensive devotion He requires from His followers. Through the Shema, believers are called to a life of love, obedience, and witness, reflecting the character of God in every aspect of their lives.