Deuteronomy 6:4 "Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one" is commonly referred to as the what?

The phrase "Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one" is known as the Shema, which is a foundational declaration of the Jewish faith emphasizing the oneness of God. The Shema serves not only as a statement of monotheism but also calls for the love and loyalty of Israel towards God. It is recited daily in Jewish prayer and is considered an essential part of Jewish identity. This verse encapsulates the core belief in a singular, unified God, and it is pivotal in establishing the relationship between God and His people.

In contrast, the other terms provided reflect different concepts. "Hallel" refers to a set of psalms traditionally recited during Jewish festivals, expressing joy and praise. "Shalom" means peace and is often used as a greeting but does not encapsulate the theological significance of the Shema. "Tanakh" is an acronym for the Hebrew Bible, encompassing the Torah (Law), Nevi'im (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings), and does not specifically refer to this essential declaration of faith. Therefore, the Shema stands out uniquely in its central role in Jewish belief and practice.