Sabbath Lounge presents Torah Portions for week 53, Ha’azinu. If you’re following along, we’re reaching the end of Deuteronomy and the Torah portion cycle. Some people call this the end of the year, but Torah tells us the year begins in the spring—so this timing more closely follows civil tradition. Regardless, it’s a longstanding tradition to read these portions in order, and Yeshua never argued with that order, so we join a great cloud of witnesses when we do the same.
If you haven’t read this week’s Torah portion, now’s a great time. Let’s jump into Deuteronomy 32. This week is unique—just one chapter: the Song of Moses.
Deuteronomy 32: The Song of Moses
The chapter opens by calling heaven and earth as witnesses. “Let my teachings come down like rain…” This poetic style almost sounds like ancient hip-hop—my words drip like dew! These verses remind us Elohim is our Rock, a symbol repeated throughout the passage. He is perfect, reliable, and just, while His people are described as corrupt, showing their shame.
Jake and I noticed how often “the rock” appears. Elohim, Yeshua, is our rock, and we’ll keep highlighting these mentions as we go. Another key point: heaven and earth as witnesses emphasize that this isn’t just a reflection on the past—it’s also a foreshadowing of what’s to come.
As the passage continues, Israel is reminded that Yahweh is their creator and father, setting up nations and making His people His possession. He finds Israel in the desert, guards them, cares for them—they bring nothing but receive everything through Him. The text echoes Job, with the Creator questioning the right of any to challenge Him.
Some find the “Yahweh’s property” phrasing uncomfortable, but Scripture frames this as a loving, protective relationship. With the right context, being His possession is about value and care.
Israel’s Unfaithfulness
Despite Yahweh’s love, Israel grows “fat and disrespectful,” turning to foreign gods and idols, provoking His anger. The text mentions sacrificing to demons and new gods never worshipped by their ancestors. Yahweh responds with harsh judgment—turning away, disasters, famine, and plague. There’s a Veggie Tales reference about untrustworthy children—feel free to share it in the comments if you catch the song!
These verses tie directly to Paul’s writings—Romans 11 speaks of Yahweh provoking Israel to jealousy through those “not His people,” grafting in Gentiles due to Israel’s disobedience. Similarly, Paul calls out “foolish Galatians,” echoing the sharp biblical rebuke found here.
Modern parallels? Think of gatherings like Burning Man, where people openly worship other gods or idols. It’s a clear, living example of the ancient pattern recurring today.
Consequences and Redemption
Yahweh’s response is severe—“I will use those who are not my people to make you jealous; my anger burns like fire…” The imagery is intense, like lyrics from a rock anthem. The warnings are clear: judgment comes to those who abandon the true Rock and embrace idols.
The differences between “our Rock” (Yahweh/Yeshua) and the false rocks of the nations are highlighted. The text compares their produce to Sodom and Gomorrah—bitter, poisonous.
Yahweh promises both vengeance and ultimate compassion on His people. He alone has the power to kill, heal, wound, and restore. The passage is a call to recognize His authority and the futility of trusting other gods.
The Song’s Conclusion & Worship
Moses, with Hosea (Yehoshua/Joshua), recites this song to all Israel. He urges the people to take the warnings seriously—these aren’t idle words, but life itself. Through obedience, life in the land is possible.
Moses is told he will die atop Mount Nebo, viewing but not entering the Promised Land because of earlier disobedience. The pattern is repeated underscoring that only Yeshua can truly lead into the inherited promises.
Music & Further Study
We recommend listening to the Song of Moses set to music by Zion Christian Press and checking out James Block for powerful worship that ties together the song of Moses and the Lamb. These musical resources can help internalize the powerful themes woven across Torah and Revelation.
Revelation 15 Connection
Revelation 15 links the Song of Moses and the Song of the Lamb—those victorious over the beast sing both, celebrating Yahweh’s justice and truth. This dual focus on Moses and Yeshua is a deep scriptural pattern: we need both for true victory and entrance into the promises.
If you’re looking for more resources, Torah portions for study and home fellowship are available on our website—free for anyone who wants to dive deeper.
Final Thoughts
We encourage you to read and sing this passage for yourself and your family. Share your thoughts and your own musical renditions in the comments! If you found value, please like, comment, and share this episode, and don’t forget to check out the Torah portions available for your group or study purposes.
Matt and Jake, signing out. Shabbat Shalom!
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