Shema is a Jewish prayer that serves as a centerpiece of the morning and evening Jewish prayer services. Its first verse encapsulates the monotheistic essence of Judaism: "Hear, O Israel: YHWH is our God, YHWH is one". The term Shema is used by extension to refer to the whole part of the daily prayers that commences with Shema Yisrael and comprises Deuteronomy 6:4–9, 11:13–21, and Numbers 15:37–41. The Shema prayer was widely practiced in the Second Temple period and was formative for Jesus, who drew upon it in his teachings. The Shema is considered by some to be the most essential prayer in all of Judaism, and its daily recitation is regarded by traditionally observant Jews as a biblical commandment. The prayer expresses belief in the singularity of God, that is, in Gods oneness.