Do mitzvot require conscious intention (kavanah) to fulfill one's obligation?
Synopsis
A major halakhic debate: one view holds mitzvot do not require intention to fulfill the obligation (mitzvot einom tzrichot kavanah); the other requires intention specifically to fulfill the commandment. The Shulchan Aruch rules that intention is required.
More in Proper Pronunciation of Shema
Which blessing formula is recited as the second blessing before the Shema — 'Ahavat Olam' or 'Ahavah Rabbah'?
5 opinions
If one recited the Shema without its accompanying blessings, has one fulfilled the obligation of Shema?
5 opinions across 3 eras
If one recited the blessings surrounding Shema out of order (e.g., the second before the first), has one fulfilled the obligation?
4 opinions across 3 eras
If one blew the shofar (or performed another mitzvah) for practice or to teach others, without intending to fulfill the personal obligation, has one fulfilled the obligation?
2 opinions
If one performs a mitzvah entirely by accident (mitasek) with no intention whatsoever, has one fulfilled the obligation?
1 opinions
Does the Shema require intention (kavanah) specifically in the first verse ('Shema Yisrael'), or throughout all three paragraphs?
6 opinions across 3 eras
If one was reading Torah or proofreading the Shema passages during the time for Shema, has one fulfilled the Shema obligation?
3 opinions
Does the blessing 'Ahavah Rabbah' / 'Ahavat Olam' before Shema exempt the separate blessing for Torah study?
2 opinions
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Does the four-amot waiting requirement apply when one intends to pray a second prayer at the same spot rather than returning to one's original place?
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If one prayed a second time intending it to be voluntary due to doubt, but then one's intention or conditions change mid-prayer, may one continue praying?
Rain Prayers
If one prays the make-up prayer first and the required prayer second, has one fulfilled the obligation?
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Who is obligated to listen to the prayer leader's repetition of the Amidah in order to fulfill their obligation?
Repetition of Amidah
Discussion
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