What is the Shema prayer? – The Shema series E1

What does the Hebrew word Shema mean and what is the significance of the Shema prayer?

Welcome to the first episode of our series on the Shema prayer and what the Bible has to say about listening.

In this episode, Noël, Mark and Esther explore the scriptures in the books of Deuteronomy and Numbers that form the Shema and discuss how this daily prayer can shape our identity, desires and the way we live.

They reflect that listening to God is about more than just hearing his words; it involves obedience that displays itself in practical action and personal transformation.

They consider how distraction, especially from smartphones, weakens our attention on and love for God and other people, before sharing practical ways we can listen better in prayer, relationships and everyday life.

Timestamps

(00:00) - Intro

(01:38) - What is the Shema prayer?

(04:48) - The Shema prayer in its original context and today

(06:14) - The role of daily prayer in spiritual formation

(08:59) - Hearing, listening and obeying – living out the two greatest commandments

(11:05) - Prayer keeps our focus on the Lord