The subtle third paragraph in the prayer Shema Yisrael

The Jewish prayer Shema Yisrael serves as a centerpiece of the morning and evening prayer services. Its first verse encapsulates the monotheistic essence of Judaism, and the first two paragraphs expound on this theme. The third paragraph however, deals with a particular obligation to add fringes to an outer garment. The significance of this third paragraph pales in comparison to the first two paragraphs. The session will inquire why this third paragraph was added to the Shema.

Session holder

Joseph Shain has studied in yeshiva in Israel and teaches evening classes in Talmud at Paideia folkhögskola. Since moving to Stockholm in 2008, Joseph has been engaged in patent prosecution and commercialization.

Photo: Alana Gordon