The first two paragraphs of the Shema appear in consecutive Torah portions. Last week, in Parashat Va’etchanan, we read: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One.”

This week, in Parashat Eikev, we read the second paragraph, beginning: “And it shall come to pass, if you faithfully obey My commandments…”

The Sages explain that these two passages represent two successive stages of religious commitment. The first is קבלת עול מלכות שמים, accepting the sovereignty of Heaven. The second is קבלת עול מצוות, accepting the obligation of the commandments.

The order is essential. Before we can commit ourselves to God’s commandments, we must first recognize God, believe in God and love God. The first paragraph establishes the relationship; the second translates that relationship into a life of obligation and action. Faith and love provide the foundation upon which the mitzvot are built.

But there is another progression between the two paragraphs—one that often goes unnoticed—and it concerns the education of our children.

In the first paragraph of the Shema, parents are commanded: “You shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them—ודברת בם—when you sit in your home, when you walk on the way, when you lie down and when you rise.”

The emphasis is on the parents.........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)