Supplement to the “Shacharit” (Morning) Prayer, composed by medieval rabbinic authorities, expressing the basic philosophy of the Jewish Religion; based on the “Commentary to the Mishnah” of the Rambam on the chapter of the Talmud that deals most directly with philosophical matters. There are thirteen principles, and the twelfth (dealing with our steadfast belief in the Coming of the Mashiach) was sung by Jewish concentration camp martyrs during the Holocaust. The (abridged versions of the) principles are:
1) I believe with complete faith that the Creator, Blessed is His Name, creates and guides all creatures, and that He alone made, makes and will make everything.
2) … is unique.
3) … is incorporeal (not physical).
4) … is the very first and the very last.
5) It is proper to pray to the Creator alone.
6) I believe with complete faith that all the words of the prophets are true.
7) … that Moshe was the greatest of the prophets.
8) … that the entire Torah now in our hands is the same that was given to Moshe.
9) … that this Torah will not be exchanged for another.
10) … that the Creator, Blessed is His Name, knows all the deeds of human beings and their thoughts.
11) … rewards with good those who observe His commandments and punishes those who violate His commandments.
12) I believe with complete faith in the coming of the Mashiach, and even though he may delay, nevertheless I anticipate every day that he will come.
13) … that there will be a revival of the dead whenever the wish emanates from the Creator, Blessed is His Name, and Exalted is His Mention, forever and for all Eternity.