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Why does the merit of saying 'Shema Yisrael' specifically protect soldiers in battle? The shiur traces Shema's origin to Yaakov's sons, who responded with both commitment to legacy ('Shema Yisrael') and truth ('Hashem (ה׳) Echad'). Fighting with consciousness of preserving ancestral tradition, not just personal survival, unlocks supernatural strength.
This shiur examines the deeper meaning behind the phrase 'Shema Yisrael' found in Parshas Shoftim, where the Kohen tells soldiers going to war that even if they have no other merit, the merit of Shema alone will ensure divine protection. The speaker analyzes Rashi (רש"י)'s commentary citing the Sifri that explains this refers specifically to the merit of reciting Shema Yisrael. The analysis begins with the Talmudic story in Sanhedrin 63b where Eliyahu HaNavi encounters a starving child after the destruction of the Second Temple. When Eliyahu offers to teach him words that will preserve his life - 'Shema Yisrael Hashem (ה׳) Elokeinu Hashem Echad' - the child rejects this, having never heard it from his father, and dies clutching an idol. The speaker explores what life-giving power Eliyahu was referring to.
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Parshas Shoftim, Devarim 20:1-4
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