After dealing with the times for reciting the Shema (1:1-2) and the physical position for its recitation (1:3), the present mishnah now discusses its liturgical context. The Shema is not recited alone, but “sandwiched” between the blessings “before it” and the the blessings “after it.” [In some rites there is a third blessing on weekdays, Barukh Hashem le-Olam (“Blessed is G-d forever…”). This blessing was instituted in the post-Talmudic era, though, and hence is not mentioned in our mishnah.]