The Power of Shema: How One Verse Can Change the Way You Live

Shema Yisrael: More Than a Prayer

Shema Yisrael is one of the most powerful prayers in Judaism. We recite it upon waking and before we sleep. Mothers teach it to their young children, and countless individuals whisper it as their final words.

But what makes Shema so central? Why is this short verse considered the Jewish mission statement?

Charlie Harary explains its significance with a story:
A CEO of a large company wanted his only son to eventually take over the business. To prepare him, the father brought his son into the company. The son, who had previously worked elsewhere, described the difference:

“At my old job, I didn’t know who had my back when things got tough. I wasn’t sure if the tasks I was given were meant to build my career or just benefit the boss. I didn’t know who really held the power. Most of all, I constantly felt like I was running in circles. I had no sense of direction or purpose. I was just another nameless cog in a big, impersonal machine.

But now, everything’s changed. My father is the CEO. More than that, he’s building me to be able to run this company one day. When he gives me a task, I know it’s for a reason, and that it’s part of my growth. Whether I’m sweeping the floors or sitting in a negotiation, I trust that he wants the best for me. So I just focus on doing my job the best I can.”

Living with Purpose, Not Uncertainty

Our lives often mirror that first workplace. When we try to control the future, we’re left guessing:
What decisions will lead to success?
Who’s really influencing our path?
Are we moving forward, or just running in circles?

We don’t always stop to ask: Am I even on a path that leads somewhere?

That’s why, at the start and end of each day, we ground ourselves with the words:
"Shema Yisrael, Hashem Elokeinu, Hashem Echad."

Let’s break it down:

• Shema – Listen. Pay attention.

• Yisrael – A direct call to every Jew.

• Hashem – There is a Creator.

• Elokeinu – He is our personal Hashem, our Sustainer, the ultimate CEO.

• Hashem – The same Hashem throughout all of time.

• Echad – He is One. The only One.

This verse reminds us that there’s meaning behind everything. Hashem runs the world. He loves each of us like an only child. And He has a purpose for each of us.

Every joy and every challenge, whether it's financial gain or loss, finding a partner or losing one, or success or failure, is directed by Hashem. It’s all part of a greater plan to help you become the best version of yourself.

(Photo: Yaakov Naumi / Flash 90)

From Recitation to Transformation

If we don’t just recite these words, but truly internalize them, our entire experience will shift.

Many people walk through life feeling lost or stuck. They wonder whether their actions matter or if they’re just spinning their wheels.

But when you internalize the words of Shema, everything changes.

You begin to realize: My Father is the CEO. I am His only child.
Suddenly, the confusion lifts. You’re not here by accident. You don’t need to carry the whole world on your shoulders. Your job is simply to do your best with what you’ve been given.

And if He gave it to you, it has meaning, even if you can’t yet see the full picture.

That’s the message of Shema. It’s why we repeat it from morning to night, from the cradle to the grave. It’s the beam of light that carries us through life’s journey, with Hashem by our side.