The Meaning of Shema - OR

Shema Yisrael (or Sh'ma Yisroel or just Shema) (Hebrew: שמע ישראל; "Hear, [O] Israel").
These are the first two words of a widely recited section of the Torah. The Shema is considered a declaration of faith in God.

Its main content is loving the one and only God with all one's heart, soul and might, and the rewards that come with this. Conversely, it also
includes an admonishment concerning failing to heed the ommandments of God lest we arouse the wrath of God.

In the summer of 2006, Orna Simkhai, the designer of Shema-Or, saw a compelling story about a 19-year-old soldier who lost his two legs in the Lebanon II war. She was so moved by his bravery and love of Israel. A powerful feeling took hold and Orna went to Tel-HaShomer Hospital in Israel to reach out to him. Orna sympathized with his pain and felt the beauty in his spirit. The meeting fostered a deep connection between them and she decided that somehow she needed to help this soldier. She decided to make the "Shemas," sell them, and donate the money to him and other causes. The response to these medallions was so overwhelming. When Orna told the young soldier about the "Shema Project" he was so moved. He told Orna that although he wasn't religious, when he was injured and in pain, he prayed to G-d saying the Shema!!

Today Orna's TZDEKAH (charity) and CHESED has extended beyond the young solider, and now includes a religious elementary school in Kfar Yonah, and Bet Ariel, a High School for children of low-income families in Ber Sheva. She is now also reaching out to a community of Ethiopian girls who immigrated to Israel and are in need of clothes, and books. We have been able to help Ethiopians in Israel, buy computers, pay for a teaching certificate and just enjoy life a bit more. Some of the money has gone to help and cheer up wounded soldiers from the last Lebanon War.

May this Shema give you strength and perseverance to make a difference in the world around you; May it bring you light and "Or"…

HEAR, O, ISRAEL, THE LORD IS OUR GOD, THE LORD IS ONE…

SHEMA YISRAEL - ADONAI ELOHEINU, ADONAI ECHAD…