The Shema, a central prayer in Judaism found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, is a profound declaration of faith that begins with, "Hear, O Israel: The Lord
our God, the Lord is one." This ancient prayer calls for deep devotion and obedience to God. The Hebrew word "Shema" means to hear, listen, and obey, emphasizing the importance of responding to God's words with action. It encapsulates the essence of listening, obedience, and wholehearted devotion to God.
In the Old Testament, the Shema was crucial in the daily lives of the Israelites. It served as a declaration to the One True Living God who delivered them from Egypt and their commitment to love and obey Him. Moses instructed the Israelites to internalize these words and teach them diligently to their children, stressing loyalty and obedience to the one true God amidst surrounding polytheistic cultures.
The Shema’s significance extends into the New Testament, where Jesus quoted it in Mark 12:29-31. When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus combined the Shema with the command to love one’s neighbor, highlighting its enduring relevance and fundamental role in Christian ethics. This underscores the Shema's importance as a call to love God fully and to express that love through obedience and compassion towards others.
For modern Christians, practicing the Shema means living a life that reflects total love and obedience to God. This involves making God's
commandments central to our lives, engaging in regular prayer and study of the Scriptures, and fostering communities where God's love is actively demonstrated. The Shema encourages holistic devotion to God, impacting every aspect of our lives and interactions.
In the 1990s, "What Would Jesus Do?" (WWJD) became a popular way for Christians to reflect on their actions. While useful, it often lacked
the depth and scriptural grounding of the Shema. By adopting the Shema as a guiding principle, Christians can draw on a deeply biblical foundation that emphasizes holistic love and obedience to God. The Shema is not just a slogan; it is a comprehensive call to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives.
Our products featuring the word "Shema" are designed to inspire and remind you of this central commandment. Let these designs serve as a modern "WWJD" but with a richer theological foundation, encouraging you to live out the principles of the Shema in your daily life. Embrace the Shema, and let it transform your faith and actions, reflecting the wholehearted devotion that God desires from us.
