BLESS THE LAND
PARSHA COMMENTARY
Parsha Commentary Study
Ha'azinu ("Give ear")
Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
August, 2010
Torah: 32:1-52
Haftorah: 2 Samuel 22:1-51
Sugg. N.T.: Romans 10:14-11:12
Sections: 1. Weekly Commentary 2. Parsha Study 3. Prayer and Blessing 4. Living the Parsha
Welcome: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you [and give to you], saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end" (Jer. 29:11). The prophet was despised and renounced in Judah and persecuted by false prophets. Jeremiah began to think about the brethren already in captivity, the "good figs" (24:3-5), and writes to the surviving elders of Judah, encouraging the despondent people who were suffering under an alien culture. Though a seventy-year exile would be their punishment, he writes, YHVH would visit [take notice of] them, and give them a hope for the future. In the end, apathy, hopelessness, and sorrow would not be the Jew's portion. Even when they were in Babylon, He would be thinking about His destiny for them--the blessed estate of peace, prosperity, and headship over the nations.
The living, eternal God of Israel is a thinking Being. What does He think about, you might ask? Judging from His Scriptures, the revelation of Yeshua Messiah, and our experience with His great work of redemption, He thinks about us! And what He thinks about us is very important. His thoughts are not the windy, circular contemplations [guess-work] of a philosopher, or the musings of a theologian. His thoughts are the wise and good considerations of a holy King, and are the prelude to His actions. We know His thoughts, for they are in His prophetic word, and thus we are aware of how He acts. In this way He prepares us to understand and cooperate with His thoughts of peace so they will be ultimately fulfilled. If the promised peace is delayed, it is our fault, not His. He has bestowed upon man the faculty of free-will, thereby enabling him to chose life and draw nigh to Yahweh. Despite how gradual the restoration of all Israel appears to human consciousness, we must remember how great is His power, and that ultimately He will fully accomplish His thoughts of peace and prosperity for His children.
We observe several principles from the words of Jeremiah that we, who labor to return as completely as possible to the Elohim of the Patriarchs, can apply to our lives. Jeremiah instructs the Jews in captivity: 1. Submit patiently to the adversity. It was ordained by God. Rebellion and continued resistance would be foolish and wrong. 2. Despite the gloomy circumstances, seek the brightest and wisest course of action for your term. Life is usually what we make it to be for ourselves. 3. Maintain faith for a bright future. In the dark moment, remember the promise of restoration. 4. "Seek the peace of the city...for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace" . The Jews were instructed to seek the common good of the people among whom they were placed. They were called to live as loyal citizens and to respect the civil authority to whatever extent they were able. So are we. Paul concurs: "So then we pursue the things that make for peace and the building up of one another" (Romans 14:19).
Section 1: Weekly Commentary
Torah: Introduction to Ha'azinu ("Give ear")
Last week: Parsha Nitsavim ("You are standing") and VaYelech ("And he went") covered the topics: the covenant renewal at Moab, the promise of restoration, Moses' last counsel to Israel, and the commissioning of Joshua. Moses' closing words to his faithful assistant/student were: "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the One who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you" (Deut. 31:6).
This week: Parsha Ha'azinu ("Give ear" or "Listen in") consists mostly of the seventy-line poem, or song mentioned in the previous chapter, that Moses wrote and taught to Israel on the last day of his life on earth. The song of Moses sets before Israel their entire history, from the past into the future, and declares the name of Elohim is YHVH, Who is the Rock whose work is perfect. The poetry of the ode/song reveals the zeal and reverence Moses held in his heart for Yahweh, which he faithfully labored for forty years to impart into the hearts of the children of Israel. Also noteworthy are his zeal for God, desire for His honor, and reverence for His majesty. As a song, the ode would be memorable, easily handed down from person to person, and have greater power to stir the soul. It contains the following general themes/divisions: (1) introduction and importance of his words as doctrine (v. 1-3); (2) the purity and excellence of Yahweh is compared with the corruptness of Israel (V. 4-5); (3) the foolishness and ingratitude of rebellious Israel (v. 7-18); (4) the purpose of Yahweh in punishing and rejecting the rebellious generation (v. 19-23); (5) the fulfillment of this purpose a. in the judgments of rebels, and b. in the mercies and favor shown to the repentant who humble themselves before the Almighty (v. 24-34); (6) the punishment the Almighty would bring upon Israel's enemies and persecutors, and the grace and mercy He would extend to His servants, which implies the future restoration and prosperity of the nation (v. 35-43). The Song of Moses contains strong truth within severe passages, but also has breathed into its structure a sorrowful and affectionate pathos. It is a song for all to hear, in every land, in all the ages. It's teachings and principles will never become outdated.
Ha'azinu ends with instruction for Moses to climb Mount Nebo, view the Promised Land, after which he would die.
1. "Give ear, O ye heavens, and let me speak; and let the earth hear the words of my mouth...let my teaching drop as rain...for I proclaim the name of the Lord; ascribe greatness to our God!" (Deut. 32:1-3).
At least two witnesses are required by Torah to establish or confirm a thing. Moses knew this, of course, and summoned two witnesses to listen to and confirm his inspired words. They are none other than heaven and earth, creation's great, attentive, and eternal audience. Moses' song would glorify and celebrate the righteousness and faithfulness of YHVH, and heaven and earth would be very interested in hearing the important words, that they might comply, rejoice, give glory to Yeshua, participate with Him in the blessings of obedience [produce favorable conditions for prosperity and abundance] and in the judgments of rebellion [drought, dearth, a withering wind, etc.]. The Song of Moses was kept by the Levites as a witness for Elohim against the people; proof of His flawless prophetic foresight and unfailing love for Israel. As a testimony, the ode represented the striking contrast between the unchanging faithfulness of YHVH and the perversity and disloyalty of the people.
Moses likens his inspired words to rain and dew, which are gentle, quiet, but effective in accomplishing their purpose, and fit symbols for the beneficial teaching of Moses. Both rain and dew invigorate the earth. They revive and refresh plant and animal life. What is more, both are powerful. They get into pores and crevices and can eventually break rocks. They are also deep-reaching, going far into the soil to nurture the roots of plant and trees. Let us take a lesson from the Song of Moses. The best teaching is not usually the loud, clever, forceful and flamboyant sort. Teaching must inspire people with penetrating, incisive convictions of YHVH's reality and greatness and lead them to reverence, worship, and serve Him. The visions of the earthquake, the wind and the fire were divine responses to Elijah's prayer on Horeb, but it was "the [intimate] still small voice" that most deeply and personally edified the heart of the prophet from Tishbi. See 2 Kings 19:11-21. Paul told Timothy: "The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves..." (2 Tim. 2:24-25). Of Yeshua it was said, "He shall not strive or cry..." (Mt. 12:19).
"He is a rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He" (see v.4-5). YHVH is the Rock of the believer. His principles never change. The term rock occurs mostly in the writing of Moses, David and some other psalmists. The image abounds with symbolism. Our Elohim is a Rock by virtue of His: A. His eternal existence. (Ps. 90:2). B. His omnipotence (Dan.4:35). C. His wisdom (Isa. 40:13). D. The immutability of His purpose (Ps. 33:11; Isa. 46:10). E. The faithfulness of His Word (Ps. 119:89-90). F. The rectitude of His government (Ps. 145:17). With regards to Yeshua: G. His work is perfect. He is eternal, like His Father. (Rev. 1:11). H. Yeshua is unchangeable. (Heb. 13:8). I. He is all-powerful. (Mt. 28:18). J. He is faithful (John 13:1; 14:18-20). K. He is righteous. (Rev. 19:11). L. Yeshua is wise. Isa. 9:6). M. He is our shelter (Ps. 61:3). N. A defense. (Ps. 18:2). O. A dwelling-place (Ps. 91:3). P. A shadow from the heat (Isa. 32:20. Q. An immoveable standing ground (Ps. 40:2). R. A foundation (Mt 7:24), and more.
"Do you thus repay the Lord, O foolish and unwise people" (Deut. 32:6-7). Divine care and kindness had been shown to Israel, but instead of dutifully obeying YHVH's will, the nation perversely reciprocated (repaid) the Almighty for all His benefits with apostasy.
"When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance...He set boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the sons of Israel" (Deut. 32:8-9). Elohim distributed the nations of the earth, assigning them to their own specific territories, with an eye to preserving for His chosen people their special, suitable dwelling place. His administration and management of the entire planet is accomplished in view of the establishment and welfare of Israel.
2. "He found Him in a desert land, and in the howling waste of a wilderness; He encircled him, and guarded him as the pupil of His eye" (Deut. 32:10-14).
The passage of the Song of Moses speaks of how Israel was found, led, taught and sustained on her way to the Promised Land by the Eternal Elohim. Israel was found, so to speak, in the desert of Egypt, helpless and without hope, shelter, or a resting place. She was led into the Wilderness, and remained there for forty years because of her unbelief. But the grace of the Almighty overruled the discipline, which was for her good, and grace prevailed. Yahweh considered Israel's feebleness (Hos. 9:3-4). He was mindful of the peoples ignorance, and "instructed him." He watched over the nation; guarded and "Kept him" safe. YHVH conducted His people to a land of plenty, gave them rest, and provided Israel with all a heart could desire. Thus does Yahweh with the believers today, by bringing them into a place of spiritual wealth, the fullness of redemption blessings in Messiah Yeshua. Israel's journey is a type of our life journeys.
Moses used the metaphor of the mother eagle to describe Yahweh's tender care for His fledgling people of old, and we glean lessons of His dealings with the saints today. In the picture of the mother eagle we see: a. Her intent. She teaches her young self-reliance. YHVH also trains His people for prompt, fearless, faith-filled action. This was a purpose for the sojourn in the wilderness--active dependence, not passivity. To achieve her purpose, we observe b. her method. She "stirs up the nest." She does not allow them constant ease, but causes responses and stirs them to flight by making the nest very uncomfortable at times. So Elohim deals with His Israelite believers today. He makes our places/circumstances uncomfortable and uneasy with various afflictions, even allowing His people entry into difficult situations, and in this way our Abba goads us to think and respond with the needed maturity. He rouses us to action and the exercise of the potentials He has placed within us for our spiritual growth. The axiom that too much uninterrupted comfort is not good for the believer has become widely accepted as self-evident. A life of ease is not our goal. Another respected postulate declares that if you spare the rod (correction) you spoil (ruin) the child. Love must be "tough" sometimes. Thus, in her intent and method, we note the mother eagle's c. care. She protects her young, and prepares them for their adult life, but does not allow them to harm themselves. She keeps them close, under her wings, and hovers over them constantly. Likewise, the Most High tries us, challenges us, tests us, for our welfare and maturing, but never beyond our own strength.
3. "But Jeshurun waxed fat and kicked: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick...then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of His salvation" (see Deut. 32:15-18).
Material prosperity has its very real pitfalls of which people must be awakened. History reveals the great success and good fortune inevitably become a threat, a challenge, to a godly country's spiritual and moral standards. Abundant resources allow people much idle time and money to pursue their passions and indulge their carnal natures, satisfy their lusts and underwrite hidden longings. Moses warned Israel to be careful, thoughtful stewards of the good things they would have in Canaan, and not become servants to them. The warnings, found in Deut. 8:12-18, were not heeded.
Jeshurun is a poetic pet name for Israel (Deut 33:15; Isa. 44:2). It is derived from yasar, which means level, straight, upright, righteous. The name actually means "Upright One" or "Uprighter." The name is also related to Asshur. It is an honorable name. Moses used it to describe Israel before her conduct descended to deplorable depths and she forsook the Elohim of her early vows. There have also been many Jeshuruns in Israel's New Testament history who have turned away from, and no longer "contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints [holy ones]" (Jude 1:3). A good name is of little value unless it is accompanied by a strong, righteous character. But Jeshurun had "waxed fat and kicked...then he forsook God..." We see: A. Prosperity that is produced and managed by the Spirit working through a spiritually prosperous soul is a blessing (3 John 2), but excess produces all-to-often evil effects. Prosperity can [not necessarily always, but often enough] lead to pride, stubbornness, and then self-willfulness. These will not submit to the government of the Most High, and will produce spiritual indifference in the soul, and cause it to turn from the true God to the gods of the flesh and pride. This is wicked, ungrateful, stupid, and fatal. Scripture warns us of two steps in apostasy--forsaking the fountain of living waters [falling away from YHVH/Yeshua] and hewing out broken cisterns [bowing down to gods and values of this dark world]. See Ps. 36:9; Jer. 2:13; 17:13; John 4:10-15; 7:28; Rev.21:6. Moses' Song says of Israel that they sacrificed to "new gods that came newly up..." B. Spiritual novelties are ever an attraction to unsteady believers. A new variety of "gods" was an exciting prospect and an exciting change to the easily bored Israelites. Chasing after new spiritual things has always been intriguing for those with itching ears in every age. As the truth of the Living God is gradually abandoned, people will turn increasingly to spiritual decoys, new age pursuits, and trivial earthy religions as curious, fascinating substitutes. This is readily apparent with the popularity of esoteric and occult activities in our nation today. Many are being turned by the anti-Messiah spirit to vain philosophies [prominent in colleges and universities], are greedy for new religious creeds and experiences, and open to "every wind of doctrine" [satanic flood of bizarre, anti-Messiah teaching] that comes on the scene (Eph. 4:14). This was the type of course prophesied for Israel. Apostasy was the end result of Israel's infidelity to YHVH. She was tempted, and turned from Yahweh, transferring her respect, allegiance, affections, and support from Him to demons, and thereby all that was degrading and unwholesome. "They sacrificed to devils, not to God; [but] to gods they knew not...", to destroyers and malignant deities. The enemy is subtle. We today do not fear powers of darkness, but we are to remain alert to their strategies. "But we worship devils, or the devil, (Mt. 4:9), when we bow in our spirit/heart to the world's modes and values; when we serve gold, or fashion, or the opinion of society; when we are slaves to the lust of power; when be bow to false gnosos, etc. " [J.O. Deut. p. 518.]
Brethren, rejoice that you know the Holy One of Israel, and that He has acknowledged you personally by calling you to return to your Israelite heritage [welcoming you home] and to participation in the restoration of the kingdom, power, and glory of God to all Israel. That is true prosperity. And let the promise of Yeshua sink into your heart: "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Mt. 5:6).
4. "The Lord saw this, and spurned them because of the provocation of His sons and daughters. Then He said, I will hide My face from them...they are a perverse generation...I will heap misfortunes on them..." (read Deut. 32:19-27).
The Song's passage prophesies the advent of Yahweh's wrath. The peoples' indiscretions, their misuse of and unappreciative attitude for promised blessings, the smug sense of entitlement and false perception of security, and the resulting apostasy, would not be ignored. Consider: A. The wrath of God would become a reality to Israel. But, to the new reader of the Torah, this is good news, albeit disguised. Yahweh is capable of wrath because He is capable of moral indignation. This means He is capable of holy, moral love and the dispensing of mercies and forgiveness too. We can see wrath/correction and love/care are opposite poles of the spectrum of affection. B. Elohim's wrath/judgment is designed to vanquish sin, and bring men to repentance and the Savior, and finally, restoration. Therefore, it must be frightful in its working. According to the passage, His wrath operates two ways: (1) Yahweh turns away, "lifts" His presence, and leaves men to themselves. When He hides His face, the result is predictable. The sinners are swarmed by demonic influences and left to eat the horrid fruit of the wickedness they have, even under persistent holy persuasion, refused to give up. (2) The Almighty allows afflictions and misfortunes and even bitter destructions on the unrepentant (but redeemable). We note that His judgment will eventually take in sheol [hell] and the entire earth (v. 22), which is a prophetic hint of the extension of grace to the Gentiles (V. 21). The expansion of the Kingdom of God throughout the earth will bring all nations within the sphere of Messianic judgment (Mt. 25:31) and further suggests of a future judgment of the unrepentant so severe that it is disturbing for the mind to dwell upon. Unpleasant as such things may be to contemplate, they are precepts of Scripture and should be recollected from time to time. C. As long as the hope of repentance and recovery endure, Yahweh's wrath is accompanied always with the availability of mercy. Israel was not cast away completely. It could be said that His (1) judgment and His (2) mercy are the warp and weft of heaven's redemption policy. [Note: When weaving textiles, two different sets of yarns or threads are interlaced to form the fabric. They are called the warp and the weft, or woof. The warp yarn runs the length of the cloth, and the weft [woof] runs across the bolt of cloth, side to side. This is the "filling." The fabric is woven on a device called a loom. The manner in which the warp and the filling yarn, the weft [woof], interlace is called the weave.] D. What provokes and draws the wrath/judgment of Elohim? It is sin. People who have been closest to Him in fellowship, and have enjoyed (to some extent) the blessings of the world to come, and His favor, and yet turn from faith and persist in sin (v. 20), will experience the greater judgment. (Amos 3:2). This was the case with Israel, who nevertheless fared in the long run much better than did her enemies.
"They would consider their latter end..." (read Deut. 32:28-30). Israel rejected divine counsel; she therefore was bereft of understanding. The people failed to envision and be persuaded by the consequences that were prophesied with regard to their lifestyle choices. Her need was wisdom--the insight to choose and then craft, or shape, their lives with a view of experiencing the end for which they were created--eternal life with the Creator. Because they forsook God, the help of the Almighty was withdrawn from them, and Israel fell under the power of her enemies. Even Israel's enemies realized their idols were not like the great Elohim, Rock of Israel. Sin brings confusion to the once enlightened, dulls foresight, and represents the ultimate lack of wisdom. Scripture encourages us: "But if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously...but he must ask in faith..." (James 1:5-6). Everyone who desires to grow spiritually through the trials of life needs wisdom higher than his or her own. It is the universal need. Scripture tells us that wisdom is available. It is the gift of the living Elohim, who is its Source and Fountain. In the New Covenant, Yeshua has given the Holy Spirit to work wisdom in the hearts of the saints who ask and believe. [Note: The Hebrew word for wisdom is hokmah, or chokhmah. It is related the word "skill" or "care", and has come to mean "skill in living." Chokhmah comes from the Spirit and through the study of the Torah of Yahweh, who is holy and righteous. He expects those who know Him to display wisdom by exhibiting His character in their lives. Hebrew wisdom, unlike Greek wisdom, is not of the head, but of the heart, and it brings the will into agreement with the mitzvot.] Wisdom is indispensable for us who labor for the restoration of the whole house of Israel, but comes to those who seek and ask with steadfast faith.
"They made Me jealous with what was not God; They have provoked Me to anger with their idols [vanities, mere vapors]. So I will make them jealous with those who are not a people [lo ammi]" (Deut. 32:21. The ode continues by describing Israel as angering YHVH by worshiping false gods that were nothing more than representations of demons, and exchanging the Creator for carved idols and stone deities that cannot hear or speak and have no life, power, or value. In the verse Yahweh says He will, step by step, allow Israel to be defeated, subjugated, and oppressed by employing heathen nations that are spiritually, morally, culturally inferior, that have never known Him. Such nations, of low esteem and little worth, will be loosed to exploit and exact tribute from the sons of Israel.
There is another application of this prophesy, though. Yahweh said, "I will make them jealous with those who are not a people." He speaks of a people that He would take as His, which He calls "no people," or lo ammi. He is referring to the Gentiles who would come into the kingdom through faith in Messiah Yeshua in the last days, and be grafted into Israel. These would be the descendants of the Israelites who had forfeited their privileges and blessings through apostasy, had been divorced by YHVH and exiled from the land, and had forgotten their heritage and Torah. The lo ammi [foolish, goy nation] He is speaking of, who would be used to make His remaining people (Judah) jealous, are the multitude of descendants of the Ten Northern tribes (Ephraim and his companions) that had been judged for idolatry and immorality, conquered by Assyria, scattered abroad, and left to multiply in the nations. These, who at one time had been a people [ammi; the northern kingdom], rejected Yahweh and were scattered as "not a people"[lo ammi]. The Scriptures indicate it is these people who would return to Messiah and take their place in the "Yisrael of YHVH" in the latter days. They would once again be called "ammi"--My people. The Hebrew Roots Movement is an integral part of the fulfillment of verse 21. [Note: Following the reign of Solomon, the united Kingdom of Israel was divided into the northern Kingdom [House] of Israel/Ephraim and the southern Kingdom [House] of Judah (1 Kings 11-12). In time, Israel-Ephraim became apostate, and was taken captive by Assyria, YHVH's tool of Judgment (2 Kings 17:1-23). Following that event, Judah was exiled for seventy years (2 Kings 25). The House of Israel/Ephraim was unrepentant, scattered to the nations and experienced great growth (Hosea 1-3). They were sifted in the nations, but not forgotten. (Amos 9:9). YHVH prepared to bring Ephraim back to covenant (Jer.31, 33:31-33). He called the backsliding (House of) Israel to renounce their sin and return (Jer.3:11-18). YHVH promised to recover the outcasts of Israel. (Isa. 11:11-14). Ephraim started her restoration as "ammi", My people through faith in Messiah (Mt. 10:6; 15:24; Acts 2:4; 10:1-47; 13:1-46; Jas. 1:1; 1 Pet. 1:1; 2:9-10). The House of Judah and House of Israel will be distinguished, reconciled, and unified. They will become one new man, one stick, one house (Ezek 37:15-23).]
"For their vine is from the vine of Sodom" (Deut. 32:32-33). This verse of the Song of Moses associates rebellious Israel with Sodom, which symbolizes that which is depraved and offensive to the morally upright person (Isa. 1:10; Jer. 23:14).
5. "Is it not laid up in store with Me, sealed up in My treasures? Vengeance is Mine, and retribution, in due time their foot will slip...calamity is near..." (read Deut. 32:34-43).
Yahweh's treasuries in heaven evidently contain blessings and the means of punishment! These He can send upon men as He deems necessary and prudent (De. 28:12; Job. 38:22-23; Ps. 135:7). Judgment--"vengeance is mine"--is the prerogative of the Almighty. "O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?" (Rom. 9:20). Though many resent the concept of divine retribution, we read that it is not our place to challenge it or play it down, so to speak, in favor of grace. It's a reality we must understand and appreciate. If somehow, the prerogative of vengeance was removed from Yahweh, anarchy would result throughout the planet. Everyone would suffer. Government and law enforcement, which are given His authority to wield the sword of justice, would become powerless [toothless], ineffectual, and collapse. Further, there could then be no correction or holy discipline in the Body of Messiah, the kind of discipline of which the Apostles Peter, John, and Paul endorsed. The Kahal/Ecclesia/"Church" would be corrupted with false teaching, societies would fall to complete disorder, and the world would spin irretrievably into ever-worsening lawlessness and chaos. Divine judgment, in the sphere of material creation, is indeed necessary for order and justice. But it is, however, often delayed through divine forbearance. This is the patience of His enduring grace. Divine wrath/judgment, that is restrained to provide time for repentance, can cause sinners to become confident in their waywardness (Eccl. 8:11; 2 Pet. 3:9-10). This happens. Nevertheless, every transgression and rebellion against His truth will meet with retribution. God's justice and vengeance allow for no escape without atonement. [Note: We must keep in mind, however, that abundant provision was made for atonement and ritual cleansing in Israel of old. The divinely ordained means of purification, the arrangement for atonement sacrifices and restoration for the people, were readily and repeatedly available to the repentant Israelite, and regularly promoted by Moses. The message these provisions resonated to observant Israel was that God's mercy triumphs over judgment. He delights in pouring out grace wherever and whenever He can! ]
Still, judgment (on stubborn sinners) and vengeance (on cruel and persistent enemies) are assured: "As I live," He affirmed. And, we read that they are terrible, as "arrows drunk with blood." But His sure judgments are needful in turning backsliders from sin, bringing them to repentance, and positioning them with blessed restoration. His sure vengeance is also needed in uprooting and casting out the enemies who delight in bringing destruction and sorrow to His Israel. "Rejoice, O nations with His people; for He will avenge the blood of His servants, and render vengeance on their adversaries, and will atone for His land and His people" (v. 43). So, Yahweh's methods have always, in the end, proven to be merciful and beneficial for His people.
Thus, the Old Covenant sacrifices are an example of His goodness. These provided temporary atonement for the people of Israel, and pointed to Yeshua to Whom the Law, with its blessings and curses, was intended to lead the people. Yeshua died for our sins, fulfilling the Old Covenant types, and has been raised from the dead for the justification of all who believe in Him. His Blood has been applied to the altar in heaven where once and for all redemption was provided to them who trust in His atonement. Faith in His shed Blood is forever the only means of having a right relationship with the Almighty. It is written, "Messiah redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us--for it is written, Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree--in order that in Messiah Yeshua the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith" (Gal. 3:13-14). The subject of the wrath of God and His judgments is very prominent in the parsha, and can be sobering to the student to read. Notwithstanding, they were absolutely necessary administrations for keeping Israel from spiritual disintegration. Judgment and retribution, unpleasant as they may be to read about, helped keep the holy nation intact and viable as a distinct, set-apart people through the centuries, in preparation for the coming of Messiah, the Lamb of God whose sacrificial death was planned from eternity. The most significant, wondrous event in creation, the atoning death and resurrection of the Son of God for the redemption of man and the restoration of the Kingdom of God in the earth, would not be undermined, circumvented, premature, or delayed in any way. Yeshua would be, in accordance to the perfect, eternal plan of the Father, the once-for-all Sacrifice that would bring peace, hope, comfort, and the Spirit to quicken Israel. We must remember when reading about wrath and judgment, that they were only applied as a last resort to bring correction, allow for restoration, and keep straight the way of the Savior, so He could come in the fullness of time to fulfill the Law, and make atonement. Let it be known that YHVH's will has always been to bless His people. For this reason He sent His Son. He loves mankind and rejoices in mercy. Because of the shed Blood of Messiah which has purchased us from sin and death, and the outpouring of the Spirit, Abba has made abundant provision for His people. We, who are in Covenant with the Father through the Blood of His Son, live under a great expanse of blessing. Consecrated believers today can live in the greatest degree of divine blessing--because of all that Yeshua purchased for us in His Atonement--that is possible (given our circumstances) this side of heaven. "Beloved, I pray that is all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers" (3 John 2). Without both the mercy and the judgments of YHVH, none of redemption's blessings would have become available to us.
"And by this word you will prolong your days in the land, which you are about to cross the Jordan and possess" (from Deut. 32:44-47). Religion is often considered as fanciful or mythical, a psychological construct for soothing man's fear of the unknown, an existential system of belief and practice which provides useful tenets of morality, a matrix for the needy from which spiritual truth is developed, a crutch, a paradigm for inner peace, and so on. There are those who think religion is basically for the sick, weak, dying, and confused. For those who are robust, successful, talented, and active religion has little practical bearing. But Moses put the kabash on such prejudices. [Note: Surprise! Kabash [kaw bash'] is actually a Hebrew verb. From Strong's number 3533 listing we learn it means: to subject, subdue, tread under, disregard. It is used twice in Numbers; 32:22 and 32:29.] He placed true religion--relationship and fellowship with the Holy One of Israel--in its proper place, and declared faith in Yahweh and His Torah to be vital to the welfare and success of all man, for all time. "It is your life." Read the passage and observe several things from Moses' words: A. True biblical religion deals with the substantial and enduring physical and spiritual realities of life, such as God, heaven and hell, eternal and abundant life, the souls of men, sin, sickness, sorrow, success and hope, salvation, redemption promises, and more! "It is not a vain thing." B. The truths of biblical faith [religion] are authentic, life-enhancing fundamentals that are not mythical, illusory, or shadowy. Scripture is full of practical instructions and principles for living that are supported by irrefutable evidence, including the important experiential "witness in himself." [See: Rom. 8:16; Heb. 2:4; 10:15; 11:4; 1 John 5:6; 5:10.] C. The Song of Moses teaches us that Torah-based, Yeshua-centered religion promotes mankind's interests and things of substance and moral worth, not imaginary or fanciful notions. This biblical faith is immensely practice, and deals directly with the temporal and eternal interests of the individual, family, and society. Covenant theology provides reconciliation and peace with the Creator through faith in Messiah, forgiveness and deliverance from sin, the development of a spiritual nature in men, the transformation of sorrow into blessing, and the provision of hope that vanquishes the fear of death.
Your faith "is not a vain thing." It is health and life! So they would grasp this truth, Moses urged the people once again of the importance of knowing and keeping the commandments of Yahweh.
6. "The Lord spoke to Moses that very same day, saying Go up to this mountain of the Abarim, Mount Nebo, which is the land of Moab, opposite Jericho, and look at the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the sons of Israel for a possession" (see Deut. 32:48-52).
The day that the servant of YHVH had finished the Song and had rehearsed to the people, he was reminded of his death (Nu. 27:12-14) and commanded to ascend Nebo. From there he would be "gathered unto thy people." Moses would submit to His Maker's orders without a murmur. As he had lived, so he would die, at YHVH's command on top of a mountain. Mountains have been places in Israel's history where grand events have taken place. Examples include Ararat, Sinai, Gerizim, Carmel, Mount of Beatitudes, Tabor (Transfiguration), the Mount of Olives, and Zion.
[Note: Mount Nebo (Hebrew: Har Nevo) is an elevated ridge about 2700 feet above sea level. It's location is in western Jordan. From the summit the panorama of the Holy Land can be viewed, and part of the Jordan River valley. The West Bank city of Jericho can also be seen, along with Jerusalem. Jewish and Christian scholars teach that Moses was buried on Har Nevo by Yahweh Himself. But his specific, final resting place is not known. According to the book, 2 Maccabees 2:4-7, Jeremiah the prophet hid the Tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant somewhere in the mountain so they could not be taken and desecrated by the invasion of Babylon.]
Haftorah
1. "And David spoke the words of this song to the Lord in the day that the Lord delivered him...The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer..." (2 Sam 22:1-2).
David expresses thanksgiving/gratitude to the Most High for delivering him from all his enemies, and testifies of how he had turned to God when he was under duress and in trouble. King David attributes his blessings and salvation to walking upright before the Lord and following the ways and of YHVH. "The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands..." His song ends with praise and thanksgiving.
Gospel: The Living Torah "I did not come to abolish but fulfill" (Mt. 5:17).
1. Written Torah: "They have acted corruptly toward Him, They are not His children, because of their defect; but are perverse and crooked generation" (Deut. 32:5).
In the world there is wickedness and corruption, the result of the fall of man and universal sin. Thus people, not the Almighty, are at fault and to be blamed for the miseries and destructions that abound in life. When Israel willfully sinned, they corrupted themselves and thereby declared themselves to be lo ammi, "not His people." Moses called them vile, a "crooked generation" who had obstructed Elohim's blessings for their lives. But when Israel obeyed Yahweh, He turned His face toward them, and affectionately called them ammi, "My children." The word "generation" in this case refers to the people of Israel at the time of their backsliding.
2. "Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away, until all these things happen" (read Mt. 24:1-51).
In His great end-times prophecy, Yeshua was speaking of the times and events that would precede: A. the destruction of Jerusalem (verses 15-28) and beyond that, B. the end of all things and His second coming; "...the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory" (verses 29-51). The term "this generation" refers to His listening contemporaries who would live about thirty or forty years longer, a time span that would bring them to the siege and destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, the center of the Jewish religious system. "This generation" also refers to, in a secondary sense, the last-days generation of born-again, Spirit-filled Israelite believers who seek the Most High and witness the signs that Yeshua forecasted. Over this anointed generation nothing will prevail--not pestilence, not famine, not deceivers, not fear, not false Messiahs or false prophets, not temptations or any evil thing. They will witness the kingdom, power, and glory of the Holy One restored to Israel. The Hebrew Roots Movement is Elohim's means of helping birth that generation into the earth, and bring it to a spiritually elevated place of unity of faith, consecration and sanctification.
3. "But you are a chosen generation [Isa. 43:20], a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people [a people for God's own possession], so that you can proclaim the excellencies of Him Who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people [lo ammi], but now you are the people of God [ammi]; you had not received mercy [lo ruhamah], but now you have received mercy [ruhamah]. (1 Peter 2:9-10). See also Hosea 1-3.
Peter is referencing Hosea 1:6-8 where the "no mercy" or Lo Ruhamah pronouncement was made over the house of Ephraim, non-Jewish Israel. The apostle refers directly to those he's addressing--the exiles of Pontus, Galut-Yah (Galatia), Bithynia, and Asia--as a chosen people, a chosen generation, descendants from the same stock and kindred. They, who were Lo-Ruhamah, ("without mercy") and Lo Ammi, ("without God") received mercy and became the people of God through Messiah, as foretold by the prophet Hosea (Hosea 2:23). Peter applies the prophecies of Hosea to the descendants of the ten scattered tribes, non-Jewish believers in exile who were being saved by coming to faith in Yeshua, and forming a holy nation and a royal priesthood.
Believers today have received mercy, and are the particular treasure of the Most High. We are chosen to be blessed, and to be a blessing in the earth. We are a kingdom of priests, a royal priesthood, who serve the King of kings. We compose a holy nation, set apart for His glory and cause. We, who were not a people, are now the people of Yeshua. May we learn from Moses and Israel of old and be wrapped in humility, gratitude, and watchfulness.
Acts: The Holy Spirit "But you will receive power..." (Acts 1:8).
1. "Then Yeshua, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness...then Yeshua returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. And He taught in their synagogues being glorified by all (from Luke 4:1-15).
Yeshua, the Epitome of all that Israel is destined to become, was victorious in the wilderness. We too spend time in the wilderness. It is necessary. It is in trying times and difficult circumstances where we usually experience our greatest spiritual growth. Moses spend forty years of contemplative apprenticeship in the wilderness before he was visited and called to lead Israel. We can be encouraged in our wilderness experiences by the example of Yeshua, our Master. He went through a forty day fast in the desert while under the leading of the Holy Spirit, before entering His ministry. It was in the wilderness that the Father taught the Son concerning the conduct of His ministry. Likewise, Abba wants His children to mature in the things of the Spirit of Elohim, and He will lead us to a wilderness situation, in the various seasons of life, to help us learn to trust in Him and grow into the anointing. The wilderness is a good place to connect with the Spirit. He is always with us, whether we find ourselves on the mountain top, or in a valley.
We must be filled with the Holy Spirit, enrolled in His education plan, and taught by Him so that we can grow in the knowledge and grace of our Messiah, Yeshua. We can also nourish our spirits by listening to the sounds of melody from heaven. Praying in tongues is a good way to open our spiritual ears to His voice. "...but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord, Yeshua Messiah, submitting to one another in the fear of God" (from Eph. 5:17-21).
Parsha Summary
1. "When Moses had finished speaking all these words to all Israel, he said to them, Take to your heart all the words with which I am warning you today, which you shall command your sons to observe carefully, even all the words of this law" (Deut. 32:46).
It was all the law, or nothing.
2. "It is written [Deut. 8:3], man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God" (Mt. 4:4).
Yeshua was urged strongly by the Devil to use His miraculous powers to satisfy His appetite. One rebuke had not been enough to drive away the evil tempter. Messiah resorted again to Scripture, as should we repeatedly, especially in dark moments when we cannot trust our own thoughts and feelings. Yeshua knows that man is destined for much more than just being a reproducing, feeding creature. There is more to man than needing bread, he needs divine truth to feed his soul. Yeshua was prompt with His response: "...man shall live [abundantly and eternally by]...on every word ..."
Section 2: Parsha Study
The heritage of Israel is the Torah and the Glory. "It came about when Moses was coming down from Mount Sinai (and the two tablets of stone were in Moses' hand as he was coming down from the mountain), that Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because of his speaking with Him" (Exodus 34:29).
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Ha'azinu ("Give ear")
Explanation: "...search for Me..." (Jer. 29:13).
This section is provided to help the student to read beyond the basic commentary presentation that we have provided, and study the entire parsha's Scriptures. As you press more deeply into the Word and Spirit of Elohim in a search for knowledge and intimacy with Yeshua, greater personal enrichment and spiritual transformation will be experienced. Section 2 contains a review of the weekly pasha's scheduled Scriptures, their topical contents, and our questions. This week's Scriptures and questions, which the student is encouraged to complete, are very important to our purpose. Our intention is to assist the student to: (1) develop a vision for the restoration of all Israel, and (2) grow in the basic knowledge of the Torah (along with all Scripture), and (3) experience the kingdom, power, and glory of Yeshua through the Spirit.
The Scriptures and the questions are (4) the heart of the commentary's program by which the readers can be most edified and advanced spiritually. By them the reader learns on his/her own while depending on the Holy Spirit, upon Whom we strongly encourage each person to rely in prayer and study--for revelation, insight, illumination, and divine communion. He is the close-at-hand, personal, primary Teacher of our course, not this author. In this way, the Word [reading and listening to the Spirit] and the questions [writing answers with divine input] comprise (5) the student's chief means of personal practice/exercise/training for waiting on, listening for, and responding to the voice/communication of Elohim. And, by such seeking, students position themselves for experiencing visitations of Yeshua's presence and glory through the Holy Spirit. As such, the Scriptures and the questions become (6) the channels through which the Spirit of Elohim will directly communicate personal edification, instruction, direction, and comfort to each engaged person. Therefore, if you follow the game plan, in one year you will be a different person.
Prayer: "Open my eyes that I may behold wonderful things from your Law" (Ps. 119:18).
Deut. 32:1-52 [Torah]: The Song of Moses/Not an idle word for Israel/By His word one will prolong life and obtain victory/Moses ascend to Mount Nebo to view Canaan.
2 Samuel 22:1-51 [Haftorah]: David's Psalm (song) of Deliverance after being delivered from the ahnd of his enemies, and from Saul.
Romans 10:14-11:12 [New Testament]:Heed the Word of the prophets, and prosper, which is Yahweh's will for His people. Faith comes by hearing and believing the words of Messiah, as delivered through Moses, David, and all His sent holy ones.
Study Questions: "...be ready always to give an answer..." (1 Pet. 3:15).
1. What is the main theme that is common to the three parsha readings; the Torah, Haftorah, and New Testament
2. How or where in the Gospel does Yeshua reflect or demonstrate the common theme/teaching?
3. What did the parsha reveal to you about your Hebrew roots/Hebraic heritage?
4. "The word of the Lord came to me saying..." (Ezek. 37:15). Ask the Holy Spirit to speak into your spirit/heart. Listen and discern His voice. Write down the inspired thought/prophetic word ("record the vision") you are seeing, hearing, sensing. Share it with your group.
Note: Most questions will be the same from week to week, but some will occasionally be different. Keep the questions in mind and look for appropriate answers as you read the assignment. The practice will help you better hear and discern the Spirit's prophetic words, by direct inspiration and by faith. There are no shortcuts to spiritual growth and sanctification. They will require effort, but blessings are reaped through perseverance. Respond to all the questions. Even with the repeated ones, as the Spirit helps, answers will vary from week to week, and prove refreshingly different.
Section 2: Prayer and Blessing
Bless the Land: "On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them [declaring the word to and over them], the Lord bless thee...keep thee..." (Num. 6:23).
Be sure to participate in the Bless the Land prayer, declaration, and singing activities. Your (a) joining in and support will help develop your prophetic unction and sensitivity as you (b) bless and strengthen all Israel and (c) prepare for singing the prophetic Scriptures, Psalms, and Spirit-inspired Songs of the Lord from the hills of Israel over its valleys, fields, and towns. Daniel, who daily faced Israel and Jerusalem from his home in exile to pray, is our example; "...Daniel...entered his house (Now his roof chamber had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling...praying and giving thanks before his God" Dan. 10).
1. Pray for Israel.
"For Zion's sake I will not be silent, and for Jerusalem's sake, I will not keep quiet, until her righteousness goes forth like brightness..." (Isa. 62:1).
2. Pray for Jerusalem.
"...announce to Jerusalem...May peace be within your walls, and prosperity within your palaces" (read Isa. 40:2; Ps. 122:7).
3. Pray for America/Pray for your nation.
"...seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and heal their land" (2 Chron. 7:14).
4. Sing the Song of the Lord.
"For thus saith the Lord, Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob, and shout among the chief nations; proclaim, give praise..." (Jer. 31:7).
Section 4: Living the Parsha
Conclusion: "...those who worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and truth" (John 4:24).
1. Torah: "See now that I am He, and there is no god beside Me. It is I who put to death and give life. I have wounded and it is I who heal, and there is no one who can deliver from My hand" (Deut. 32:39).
At the close of the Song of Moses, Yahweh calls to Israel to understand that He alone is the One who has the power over life and death. He only is able to raise up nations to be powerful and influential, or bring them down to the depths of low esteem. Israel is called to understand that no "god" of the heathen nations can prevent His mighty working. Moses clearly declared to Israel that the pathetic impotency of the pagan idol-god to protect the heathen from the vengeance of Yahweh should be enough to convince them that pagan idols were not gods at all. Only Yahweh is the One who can render vengeance upon the false gods and put to death their worshipers.
2. "And you shall seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." (Jer. 29:13).
He wants to be found by us. He is near, for "in Him we live and move and have our being." But He may go unnoticed. Sin, ignorance, and false concepts cloud the vision. Remember, He was the "unknown God" to the Athenians (Acts 17:22-34). Wanting ever-deepening communion with His people, He urges us to seek Him with the whole heart and singleness of purpose. The Almighty does reveal Himself to people unexpectedly, as He did to Hagar in the desert and Moses on Mount Horeb, yet we can assume that exceptional visitations/revelations are given to them whose custom, one way or another, has been to seek Him. Their hearts have been prepared somehow. Still, before these kinds of experiences, YHVH draws close to someone to inspire [urge, induce, influence] him/her to seek and find Him (Isa. 65:1). God seeks us out in such a way before we begin a quest for Him. "No man can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him..." (Mt. 6:44). Our search is the response of the heart to His divinely imparted invitation. (Ps. 27:8). He promises success to the diligent seeker; "...seek and you shall find...and he who seeks finds..." (Mt. 7:7-8). But men must seek Him. The prodigal son had to make his way home before the father could embrace and welcome him. People can be found everywhere waiting for God to do something on their behalf, to visit them, to bring revelation, and they may usually wait much, much longer that necessary. It is YHVH Who waits for us. It is our responsibility to rise up and go after Him. The promised reward of a diligent, fervent search consists of finding Him. He is our rest.
Do you sense Him drawing you closer; urging you to know Him more intimately? The Hebrew roots movement is such an invitation to the whole Christian Church. "Give ear" to His call, and be quick to follow.
Next parsha: Ve'zot HaBracha ("And this is the blessing")
