Chapter 17 – Reading of Shema (Three Portions of the Holy Scriptures in Deuteronomy and Numbers; One of Only Two Prayers That are Specifically Commanded in Torah)
17.1) Begin the reading of the Shema (three portions of the Holy Scriptures in Deuteronomy and Numbers; one of only two prayers that are specifically commanded in Torah) in the first quarter of the day.
17.2) The Shema may be read while either standing or sitting.
17.3) Before reading the Shema, contemplate its significance.
17.4) Pause briefly before the section Vayomer adonai (“and the Lord said”).
17.5) Pay attention to the words of the Shema and read them carefully from a well-revised prayer book.
17.6) Do not wink, twitch your lips, or point your fingers while reading the Shema.
17.7) Take the fringes of the tallith (prayer shawl) and hold them opposite your heart while reading the Shema.)
17.8) After saying “I am the Lord your G-d,” immediately add the word “true.”
17.9) Repeat the Shema from the beginning if you have interrupted it by leaving to go to the bathroom.
17.10) If you have read the Shema privately at home, you must join the congregation if they are reading it when you arrive.