Deuteronomy 6 is a core piece of our theology and story.
Here are some quotes by Jewish rabbis concerning some of the themes found in this chapter.
Vs. 5 "you shall love..."
"One who serves a master out of fear will always seek ways of escaping his obligations. But for one who serves out of love, obedience is a source of joy" (Sifrei)
Vs.6 "take to heart" or "they shall be upon your heart"
"Why 'upon' rather than 'in' your heart? Much of the time, a person's heart is closed, not ready to receive these words. Let the words remain outside, on the heart, until the day when circumstances break the heart open and the words of the Torah can enter." (Menahem Mendel of Kotzk)
Vs16 "do not try/test the LORD"
"Do not test God by demanding miracles, nor lose faith in God when miracles do not occur. True love does not require constant proofs of its genuineness. Rely instead on the memories of what God did for your ancestors." (pg1028, Etz Hayim)
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