Let’s face it, focusing during prayer isn’t always easy. With the constant buzz of life, it’s hard to keep your mind from wandering. But when it comes to reciting the Keriyas Shema, the stakes are higher than you might think. According to our sages, reciting the Shema twice a day without distractions is a game-changer, both spiritually and physically. It’s like putting up a protective shield around yourself, keeping those pesky negative forces at bay.
Why Keriyas Shema Is a Big Deal
Keriyas Shema isn’t just another prayer. It’s a declaration of faith, a moment when you’re supposed to align your entire being with the Oneness of HaShem. It’s said twice daily, morning and evening, and is considered one of the most important mitzvahs in Jewish practice. The words themselves carry deep significance, affirming the unity of HaShem and our commitment to His commandments.
But here’s the kicker: it’s not just about mouthing the words. The challenge—and the reward—lies in saying the Shema with full concentration, without letting your mind drift. Easier said than done, right?
The Struggle with Distractions
Let’s be real. Trying to keep your mind focused during prayer, especially when reciting something as familiar as the Shema, can feel like a Herculean task. Thoughts about your day, your to-do list, or even what you’re having for dinner can easily sneak in. But here’s the thing—those “foreign thoughts,” as our sages call them, aren’t just minor distractions. They’re actually seen as destructive forces that can diminish the power of your prayer.
In fact, the Talmud tells us that if you manage to recite the Shema without these distractions, you create a spiritual barrier that keeps these negative forces—both physical and spiritual—at bay. It’s like having a force field that protects you from harm. And who wouldn’t want that?
Building the Habit
Now, you might be thinking, “How on earth do I manage that?” The idea isn’t to suddenly become a master of concentration overnight. Instead, it’s about building the habit, starting with the beginning of your prayer. The advice from the Tzava’as HaRivash is pretty straightforward: even if it’s impossible to avoid foreign thoughts throughout your entire prayer, you should train yourself to start without them.
Think of it like warming up before a workout. You wouldn’t jump straight into lifting heavy weights without stretching first, right? The same goes for prayer. By focusing at the beginning, you set the tone for the rest of the prayer. Over time, this practice can help you extend that focus further and further into your prayers.
The Spiritual Benefits
So, what happens when you manage to focus during Keriyas Shema? According to the teachings, you’re not just fulfilling a mitzvah—you’re also engaging in a powerful spiritual practice that impacts your entire being. By focusing on the words and their meaning, you’re aligning yourself with the Divine will. This alignment has the power to dispel negativity and protect you from harmful influences.
In a way, it’s like tuning into the right frequency. When your mind and heart are focused, you’re in sync with the spiritual flow, and everything just clicks. You’re not just saying the words; you’re living them, and that makes all the difference.
Practical Tips for Staying Focused
Alright, so how do you actually stay focused? Here are a few tips to help you keep those foreign thoughts at bay:
1. Set the Scene: Find a quiet spot where you won’t be easily distracted. Turn off your phone, close the door, and take a moment to clear your mind before you begin.
2. Breathe: Before you start, take a few deep breaths. This helps to center your mind and prepares you for the task ahead.
3. Visualize: Picture the words of the Shema as you say them. Imagine them ascending, connecting you with the Divine. This can help keep your mind anchored in the prayer.
4. Go Slow: Don’t rush through the Shema. Take your time with each word, letting its meaning sink in. This makes it easier to stay focused and minimizes the chance of your mind wandering.
5. Practice: Like anything else, staying focused takes practice. The more you work at it, the easier it will become.
Final Thoughts
Reciting Keriyas Shema with full concentration is more than just a spiritual exercise; it’s a way to protect yourself from negativity, both seen and unseen. While it may seem challenging at first, with practice and intention, you can turn this daily mitzvah into a powerful tool for spiritual growth and protection.
So next time you say the Shema, remember: it’s not just about the words you’re saying; it’s about the focus you bring to them. And in doing so, you’re not just fulfilling a commandment—you’re fortifying your soul.
In my book Pick Me Up HaShem, you’ll find many prayers that explore how HaShem is constantly drawing us closer to Him, inviting us into a deeper relationship through prayer and reflection. These prayers are designed to help you connect with the divine presence in a way that transcends mere requests and taps into the true purpose of prayer.
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