Shulchan Aruch: Chapter 49 - License to Recite Shema By Heart

SECTION 49 License to Recite the Shema By Heart. (1)

1 It has become customary to recite the passages concerning the sacrifices and other [frequently-recited] verses, e.g., the psalms [of Pesukei DeZimrah], the Song of the [Red] Sea, the Shema, and the like in their entirety by heart. Our Sages taught,1 “You are not permitted to recite by heart words that are written [in Scripture].” Nevertheless, all passages that are familiar to all and commonly recited by them like those mentioned above may [be recited by heart].2 If a passage is familiar to a particular individual, but not to everyone, he is forbidden [to recite that passage by heart].

Some authorities explain that the rationale for the [current] custom is that the prohibition to recite words of Scripture by heart applies only when one recites them to fulfill an obligation on behalf of others.3 (Every individual, by contrast, is permitted to recite [such verses by heart] for himself. It is appropriate to adopt the stringency of the first opinion, but if someone follows the leniency of the second opinion, there is no need to rebuke him.)

According to all views, a blind person may recite [verses of Scripture] by heart, because of [the license implied by the verse],4 “It is a time to act for G‑d; they have abrogated Your Torah.”