Ha’azinu means “give ear.” It is the very first word of this Torah portion and begins what is commonly called the Song of Moses. Moses called upon the heavens and the earth to give ear to the words of his farewell song to the Jewish people.

This song, or poem, was used by Moses to communicate to the Israelites at the end of their wandering. In it, he warned the people of an upcoming rebellion and detailed the retribution that God would enact; however, the people would ultimately be redeemed.

The Song of Moses in Deuteronomy chapter 32 is the second major poem in the Torah. The first, called the “Song at the Sea,” is found in Exodus chapter 15 in the portion of Beshalach.

All of His Ways Are Perfect

At the beginning of the poem, Moses states that God, the Rock, is faithful, without iniquity, and all of His ways are perfect and just. Derived from this verse is a beautiful, moving Jewish prayer called “Righteous Judgment”—a prayer which is recited at Jewish burial services immediately after the grave is filled. This prayer declares that even though we cannot know God’s ways, they are justified and perfect. As the reality of the grave comes to the mourner, they declare with the words of this deeply emotional prayer their acceptance of God’s decrees, and ask Him for mercy on those who are living.

Day 1: Deuteronomy 32:1-12 Matthew 18:21-35

Day 2: Deuteronomy 32:13-28

Day 3: Deuteronomy 32:29-39

Day 4: Deuteronomy 32:40-52

Day 5: Hosea 14:2-10; Joel 2:15-27