<P> During Maariv, there are two blessings before the Shema and two after . The two before are HaMaariv Aravim and Ahavat Olam . The two after are Emet V'Emunah and Hashkiveinu . Ashkenazim add Baruch Hashem L'Olam outside of Israel on weekdays . </P> <P> Overall, the three blessings in the morning and four in the evening which accompany the Shema sum to seven, in accordance with the verse in Psalms: "I praise You seven times each day for Your just rules ." </P> <P> Before going to sleep, the first paragraph of the Shema is recited . This is not only a commandment directly given in the Bible (in Deuteronomy 6: 6--7), but is also alluded to from verses such as "Commune with your own heart upon your bed" (Psalms 4: 4). </P> <P> Some also have the custom to read all three paragraphs, along with a whole list of sections from Psalms, Tachanun, and other prayers . Altogether this is known as the K'riat Shema she - al ha - mitah . According to Arizal, reading this prayer with great concentration is also effective in cleansing one from sin . This is discussed in the Tanya . </P>

Hear ye israel the lord our god is one