Introduction to Deuteronomy 32:1–43: the Song of Moses

Says The text presents the Song as Moses' words. "Then Moses recited aloud to the whole assembly of Israel the words of this song from beginning to end" (31:30, BSB), and afterward "Moses came with Joshua son of Nun and recited all the words of this song in the hearing of the people" (32:44, BSB).

Says The Song opens by summoning heaven and earth (32:1) and closes with a call to rejoice (32:43). It moves from the Lord's faithfulness and his care for Jacob (32:4–14), to Israel's apostasy (32:15–18), the Lord's judgment (32:19–25), his restraint and vengeance (32:26–35), and his vindication of his people (32:36–43).

Says "Rock" names God through the Song (32:4, 15, 18, 30, 31), and the same word is used of the other gods in 32:31 and 32:37; see the Hebrew note on 32:1–6.

Structure. 32:1–6, the summons and the Rock; 32:7–14, the Most High's allotment and care for Jacob, with a note on 32:8–9; 32:15–18, Jeshurun's apostasy; 32:19–25, the Lord's judgment; 32:26–35, restraint and vengeance; 32:36–43, vindication and the closing call to praise; then the frame (31:30; 32:44–47).