This is a song written by my friend John Carlson. It was inspired by, and based upon the Shema. It is a great song and I think that many will enjoy it. Please feel free to share it far and wide.

 John Carlson wrote the following about the song.

“Shema means “hear” or “listen” in Hebrew and it is traditionally the scripture read at the beginning of every Torah service. It consists of Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Deuteronomy 11:-21 and Numbers 15:37-41. The melody came to me one afternoon when I was messing around with my guitar and when I couldn’t make it work with any of the psalms I decided to try it with the Shema; it fit perfectly. It is obviously not a literal rendition of the full Shema but I believe it has captured it’s heart and substance and so I say it is based on these scriptures.”

Here are the lyrics:

Chorus

Shema Y’srael Adonai Eloheynu, Adonai Echad

Y’srael Adonai Eloheynu, Adonai Echad

Love the Lord your God with all your heart

Love the Lord your God with all your strength

These commands that I have given you

Shall be written on your hearts, Y’srael

(chorus)

Teach your children of my ways

Speak of them throughout your days

As you rest and when you rise

Seal them in your hearts, Y’srael

(chorus)

Bind them on your wrists and brow

On the frames of entry to your house

On the gates that lead into your lands

Deep into your hearts, Y’srael

(chorus)