ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Shev Shema'tata

Shev Shema'tata is a phrase that is actually made up of two words-- "shev" which means "sit" and "shema'tata" which means "you hear." So when people talk about "Shev Shema'tata" they are really talking about a special time during a Jewish prayer service when everyone sits down and listens very carefully.

During this time, a special paragraph called the "Shema" is recited. The Shema is a very important prayer in Judaism that talks about how there is only one God and that we should love and follow him with all our hearts. Even though the paragraph is short, the words are very powerful and remind us to always stay connected to God.

When we say "Shev Shema'tata" it is like telling everyone to get ready to listen to the Shema prayer. It's a time when we want to be really focused and quiet so that we can hear and understand the words being said. It's a very special part of the prayer service and is a chance for us to show our love and devotion to God.