Two Halachot a Day: Bedtime Shema and the Spiritual Power of Torah Study

Two daily halachot from the book Halacha Lemaaseh by Rabbi Yaron Ashkenazi, based on the rulings of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, of blessed memory.

Can Someone Recite the Bedtime Shema Early if They Are Concerned About Falling Asleep While Studying Torah?

Someone who is concerned that they may fall asleep while studying Torah in the evening may recite the Bedtime Shema (Kriat Shema She'al Hamitah) as soon as nightfall, even if they do not intend to go to sleep at that time.

Additionally, someone who has difficulty falling asleep at night may listen to a Torah lecture after reciting the blessing of Hamapil. In fact, this is recommended even under ordinary circumstances, so that the person can fall asleep while listening to words of Torah.

Should Someone Who Goes to Sleep Before Sunset Recite the Hamapil Blessing?

Someone who goes to sleep before sunset and arranges for another person to wake them before midnight to pray Maariv (the evening prayer) should not recite the Hamapil blessing before going to sleep, since it is still daytime.

However, they may recite the other verses traditionally included in the Bedtime Shema.

Daily Quote: The Spiritual Power of Torah Study

"If Torah scholars would labor in Torah study with genuine sincerity, they would save many children and countless others from thoughts of sin, disbelief, and similar influences. Through the abundance of their holiness, a spirit of purity would spread throughout the world.

"We can clearly observe that a true Torah scholar has a profound influence on many people around him, an influence that no amount of practical effort could achieve. Likewise, his influence extends even to those who are distant, although its subtle effects may be too delicate for the human eye to perceive."

— Chazon Ish, Igrot Chazon Ish, Vol. 3, Letter 62

Understanding the Quote

The words of the Chazon Ish convey a powerful message about the extraordinary spiritual influence of those who dedicate themselves to Torah study.

When Torah scholars study with genuine sincerity, purity, devotion, and proper intention, their efforts generate a profound spiritual influence that extends far beyond themselves. According to the Chazon Ish, this devotion can help protect others, including children, from thoughts of wrongdoing and disbelief.

This influence is not necessarily the result of direct teaching, personal guidance, or verbal encouragement. Rather, the very act of sincere Torah study creates an abundance of holiness that spreads throughout the world, positively affecting others and helping distance them from harmful influences.

Sometimes, the spiritual impact of a single individual who studies Torah with genuine dedication can be far greater than we realize.

If you have ever dreamed of performing a heroic act, saving lives, or inspiring others to draw closer to Judaism, the words of the Chazon Ish offer a remarkable perspective.

Torah study pursued with sincerity is not merely a personal spiritual achievement. It is a source of holiness that radiates outward, influences the surrounding environment, and, according to this teaching, can bring spiritual protection, healing, and salvation, even without direct contact or conscious intervention.

The effects may not always be visible, but their spiritual significance can be immeasurable.