ספר דברים

Another way of understanding our verse is by contrasting its ‎message with the norms applicable in our parts of the universe. ‎When we converse with one another, we do not keep mentioning ‎the respective names of our partners in the conversation. ‎However, when one does not see the King, i.e. in the absence of ‎the King, one constantly refers to him by his name or title. The ‎same is true when we speak about the Creator; since He is not ‎visibly present in our midst, we refer to Him respectfully, as if He ‎were present. Some of us when conversing, feel that they are in ‎the presence of G’d; others are not conscious of the fact G’d is ‎ever present. If the last letter in the word ‎שמע‎ Is spelled in a ‎bigger font, it is a reminder to every Jew to view himself at all ‎times as if G’d were standing next to him and listening to what he ‎had to say. If he is aware of G’d’s presence, then the word ‎שמע‎ ‎does not require emphasis on the letter ‎עין‎, “eye,” as we feel His ‎presence. If we do not feel His presence, the letter serves as a ‎reminder to establish eye contact rather than merely aural ‎contact. [Some of these words are mine. Ed.]‎