E Mussar - Sabedoria para o Crescimento Pessoal: SF - Three Lessons of Faith From Shemah Yisrael

quinta-feira, 30 de dezembro de 2021

SF - Three Lessons of Faith From Shemah Yisrael

Judaism rests on three pillars: the knowledge of HaShem's existence, the awareness that the Torah is from Heaven, and the belief in future consequences of our deeds. These principles are alluded to in the three paragraphs of the Shema that we recite twice a day. The first paragraph contains the declaration of faith in the existence of HaShem and His unity: "Hear O Israel HaShem is Elokenu HaShem is One." The second paragraph expresses that the Torah was given to us from HaShem: "These are the Mitzvos that I command you today." The third paragraph reveals the concept of reward and punishment for man's actions: Klal Yisrael was rewarded for their faith in HaShem with the miraculous redemption from Egypt, while the Egyptians were punished for refusing to comply with HaShem's will to free Klal Yisrael.

The awareness of these three principles helps us to grasp the essence of Torah and strengthen our commitment to serve HaShem both in thought and deed.

Reflect on the three principles of faith when you recite the Shema:

1) The existence of HaShem, 2) Torah is from Heaven, 3) Reward and punishment. By reviewing these primary principles on a daily basis, you will strengthen your faith in HaShem, improve your Torah observance, and be inspired to do good deeds.

(Based on the commentary of Maharsaha to Brachos 13)