6069 - Laws of Shema and Bedtime Prayers

Letter 6,069: Precision in Prayer and the Power of the Shema

Igros Kodesh Volume 16 - 21 Shevat, 5718 Brooklyn, New York

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I. The Count of 248: Completing the Shema

The Rebbe addresses the proper way to recite the Kriat Shema to reach the significant count of 248 words (corresponding to the 248 positive Mitzvos). While the three portions of Shema contain only 245 words, we bridge this gap differently depending on the setting:

• In a Minyan: The Chazan (cantor) completes the count for the congregation by repeating the three words: Hashem Elokeichem Emet.

• Praying Individually: Since there is no Chazan to fulfill the obligation, one must reach the count personally. The Rebbe clarifies the Chabad custom for various scenarios:

Bedtime Shema (Kriat Shema she-al ha-mitah)

The Rebbe notes an inaccuracy in the student's letter regarding the bedtime prayers. Based on the Rebbe’s own notes (later printed in Hayom Yom, 28 Adar I), the law is:

• Upon finishing the three portions, one does say the word Emet.

• Though not explicitly written in some sources, the custom of Chassidim (as noted in Shaar HaKollel) is to repeat the words Ani Hashem Elokeichem to ensure the 248-word count is met.

Other Recitations

The Rebbe further clarifies the practice for other times the Shema is recited without a full prayer service following it (Hayom Yom, 17 Iyar):

• Early Morning Shema: For those who recite Shema before the deadline (one-quarter of the day) prior to the formal communal prayer, they should repeat the three words and conclude with Emet.

• Additional Tefillin: When reciting Shema while wearing the Tefillin of Rabbeinu Tam or Shimusha Rabba, one concludes with the word Emet, even though no formal prayer follows.

Summary Rule: Whenever reciting the Shema individually, repeat Ani Hashem Elokeichem and conclude with Emet to achieve the 248-word total.

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II. Psalm 91: The "Song of Plagues" (Shir Shel Pega'im)

The Rebbe discusses the recitation of Psalm 91 (Yoshev Beseter), commonly recited for protection before sleep and on Saturday night.

Starting Point and Composition

The Rebbe points out that many customs begin this prayer with the final verse of the preceding chapter: Vihi Noam... (Psalm 90:17).

Addressing Differing Opinions

The Rebbe clarifies several points regarding the "Song of Plagues":

1. Sefer Chasidim: While the Sefer Chasidim has a unique view that the song of protection actually begins with Psalm 3 (Hashem Mah Rabbu Tzarai), the accepted practice identifies it as Psalm 91.

2. Completeness: The Rebbe finds it unlikely that a title like "Song of Plagues" would refer only to a segment of a Psalm. Therefore, we recite the entire chapter rather than stopping mid-way.

The Numerical Significance (136)

On Saturday night (Motzaei Shabbat), we recite the entire Psalm and repeat the final verse: Orech Yamim....

• The entire Psalm, including the verse of Vihi Noam and the repeated final verse, totals 136 words.

• The number 136 is twice the numerical value of Chayim (Life = 68).

• This specific word count is considered a special omen (segulah) for blessing and life.