DEUT247 Rabbi Simeon said: Be careful about reciting the Sh'ma and about the prayer [of sh'moneh esreh];… Pirkei Avot, Perek II, mishnah 18; His teacher, Rabban Yohanan ben Zakkai, described Rabbi Simeon as a man "afraid of sin." In Judaism, we know, the "fear of sin" is considered one of the highest religious virtues. Many people, however, while ostensibly religious, practice the art of "brinkmanship." They are forever walking the narrow ledge that borders on sin. They go about and do things which, strictly speaking, cannot be considered sinful in themselves; but to do such things and yet not sin ultimately, one must either be made of iron or have phenomenal luck. Now, if a person truly believed, he would not take such chances. You do not go near a high-voltage wire if you know it can electrocute you. We know the teaching of the Talmud that to recite the Sh'ma is a most important and effective way of combating the yetzer hara, overcoming the temptation to sin (T.B. Berakoth 5a). Therefore, urges Rabbi Simeon, be most scrupulous in reciting the Sh'ma, for only when it is said with proper comprehension and concentration can it have its profound effect. The Sh'ma itself states the goal to which every Jew should aspire as he recites its sacred text: "And these words which I command you this day shall be upon your heart" [this verse]. Let these words, all the words of the Torah, penetrate the depths of your heart, that they may become a formative, integral part of the character.… When you recite the Sh'ma, says Rabbi Simeon, be most careful, take pains to make the words part of your very being.