MembersListen to the Song of Moses – Ha’azinu

Deuteronomy 32 and the relevancy of this “Valedictorian address.”

By Anat Schneider | | Topics: Weekly Torah Portion
A short-toed eagle in the Beit She'an Valley. Photo by Haim Shohat/Flash90
A short-toed eagle in the Beit She'an Valley. Photo by Haim Shohat/Flash90

Here Moses writes a poetic song for the second time.

The first time was after crossing the Red Sea. At that time Moses wrote the “Song of the Sea” to praise and thank God for the miracles and wonders.

Forty years later Moses writes poetry again, and this time its purpose is completely different. This time it’s to remind future generations who God is, who is in control, who has the final say.

This amazing poem summarizes a central message written in the Torah to the people of Israel. It was God who chose them, and they should always remember. Because as soon as they forget this, severe blows come upon them and intensify until the exile of the people, until the loss of the homeland.

The saying “Chosen People” should not make the people exalt themselves above others, because God’s choosing does not mean that they are better, smarter, richer or more loved.

This is a critical point for understanding what is being read and understanding God’s will, entailing great responsibility and iron discipline.

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