Deuteronomy 32:1-12. The Canticle of Moses.

The Liturgy of the Hours uses only part of this canticle of Moses, only the first twelve verses. The entire song extends to 43 verses, and prior to the vernacular versions of the Hours the entire canticle was recited during penitential seasons.

Since the style and theology of this text differs from that of the Book of Deuteronomy it is believed that this canticle was composed independently of it, and inserted into its present context later.

This first section of the song (vs. 1-12) bids Israel to listen attentively to Moses: "Give ear ... while I speak," of God!s ways. The subject of this part of the canticle is, God's ways are perfect (vs. 1-14). Verse 3 introduces the theme: "For I will sing the Lord!s renown. God is called "the Rock," a term or name frequently found in the psalms. This designation describes God as a sure foundation and refuge. We are then told that the Lord is "a faithful God, without deceit," and that he is "just and upright" (vs. 4), and he has shown nothing but kindness to his people, "'How faultless are his deeds" (vs. 4).

Israel, however, was unfaithful; they were "degenerate children, a perverse and crooked race ... a stupid and foolish people"(vs. 5). Israel is called "foolish" because she does not understand God or his ways. She lacks the wisdom that comes from God. Israel failed to reflect on her own history (vs. 7-11) where God had revealed himself.

Boldly, God is called "father," as the nation owes her very existence to him: "Is he not your father who created you?" (vs.6). And the people are upbraided for not learning from their elders what God had done for them: "Ask your father...ask your elders and they will tell you" (vs.7). God's deeds are then told (vs. 8 - 14).

For reflection: "God's loving care for Israel as expressed in this canticle is like that of Jesus for his people... The teaching of the canticle is timeless and has a timely message for us today. We should cast our minds back in history, especially in an age when 'the new' is very much in vogue. History has much to tell us of God's mercy and guidance when times were bad. Renewal must surely mean the enthusiasm and sense of purpose of pioneering generations of men [and women] strong in their faith and fidelity to the God who created them." (McNamara).