May one recite Shema while lying flat on one's back (p'rakdan) or face-down?
Synopsis
All authorities prohibit reciting Shema in the p'rakdan position — either face-up or face-down — because it is an arrogant or disrespectful posture for accepting the Kingdom of Heaven. B'dieved (after the fact), the Peri Megadim holds one fulfills the obligation.
More in Interruptions During Shema
Must one who is very heavyset or ill and cannot lie on their side recite Shema in a different position?
3 opinions
Is one who is sitting allowed to stand up in order to recite Shema while standing?
6 opinions
Must one who is walking stop and stand still for the first verse of Shema?
5 opinions
Does one fulfill the obligation of Shema if they did not have kavvanah (concentration/intent) during the first verse?
4 opinions
Does one fulfill the obligation of Shema if they recited it while drowsy (mitnanem)?
3 opinions
May one signal with eyes, lips, or fingers during the first paragraph of Shema?
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Must one who is doing work stop working during the recitation of the first paragraph of Shema?
4 opinions
May a porter carrying a load on his shoulders recite Shema? May he begin or end loading while reciting?
3 opinions
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If one finds the congregation already praying Shacharit Amidah before one has recited the Shema and its blessings, should one pray with the congregation immediately or first recite Shema and its blessings?
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After prayer concludes, should Aleinu L'Shabbei'ach be recited while standing?
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If one was eating while walking, must one sit down to recite the blessing?
Who Counts for Zimmun
Discussion
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