Listen.

 Shema is the central declaration of faith in Judaism, beginning with the Hebrew words:

“Shema Yisrael, Adonai Eloheinu, Adonai Echad.”

It means:

“Hear, O Israel: the Lord is our God, the Lord is One.”

It comes from Deuteronomy 6:4 and is traditionally recited as a daily prayer, morning and evening.

The word Shema (שְׁמַע) literally means “Hear” or “Listen.” But it carries a deeper sense: listen attentively, understand, and respond.

Interestingly, this gives us a beautiful comparison with Hindu traditions where śravaṇa — listening to sacred teaching is itself a spiritual discipline.