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Deuteronomy 32:3 - Proclaim God's infinite greatness

Deuteronomy 32:3 - דברים 32:3

Hebrew Text

כִּי שֵׁם יְהוָה אֶקְרָא הָבוּ גֹדֶל לֵאלֹהֵינוּ׃

English Translation

because I will call on the name of the Lord: ascribe greatness to our God.

Transliteration

Ki shem Adonai ekra havu godel leiloheinu.

Hebrew Leining Text

כִּ֛י שֵׁ֥ם יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶקְרָ֑א        הָב֥וּ גֹ֖דֶל לֵאלֹהֵֽינוּ׃
כִּ֛י שֵׁ֥ם יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶקְרָ֑א        הָב֥וּ גֹ֖דֶל לֵאלֹהֵֽינוּ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context and Source

The verse "כִּי שֵׁם יְהוָה אֶקְרָא הָבוּ גֹדֶל לֵאלֹהֵינוּ" (Devarim 32:3) appears in Parashat Ha'azinu, where Moshe delivers his final poetic prophecy to Bnei Yisrael. This verse serves as an introduction to Moshe's call for the nation to recognize and proclaim the greatness of Hashem.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi explains that Moshe is declaring his intent to "call upon the name of Hashem"—meaning he will publicly proclaim Hashem's praises and attributes. The phrase "הָבוּ גֹדֶל לֵאלֹהֵינוּ" ("ascribe greatness to our God") is a directive to Bnei Yisrael to acknowledge and magnify Hashem's greatness in response to Moshe's words. Rashi emphasizes that this is a collective obligation, as the verse uses the plural form "הָבוּ" ("give" or "ascribe"), indicating that the entire nation must participate in this recognition.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 1:1-6) discusses the foundational mitzvah of recognizing Hashem's greatness and unity. This verse aligns with the principle that one must publicly declare and teach the greatness of Hashem, as Moshe does here. Rambam would view this as part of the broader obligation to sanctify Hashem's name (Kiddush Hashem).

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 2:1) elaborates that Moshe's call to "ascribe greatness" is not merely verbal but requires action. It connects this verse to the idea that true recognition of Hashem's greatness must manifest in deeds—such as observing mitzvot, studying Torah, and living with reverence for Heaven. The Midrash also links this to the concept of hakarat hatov (gratitude), as Bnei Yisrael are called to acknowledge Hashem's benevolence.

Practical Implications

  • Public Proclamation: The verse teaches the importance of openly declaring Hashem's greatness, as seen in prayers like Kaddish and Birkat HaMazon.
  • Collective Responsibility: The plural "הָבוּ" underscores that sanctifying Hashem's name is a communal duty, not just an individual one.
  • Integration of Speech and Action: True "ascribing greatness" requires aligning one's words with a life of Torah and mitzvot.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 21a
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the importance of calling upon the name of the Lord and ascribing greatness to God during prayer.
📖 Sotah 49a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the proper way to honor and praise God, emphasizing the sanctity of His name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'ascribe greatness to our God' mean in Deuteronomy 32:3?
A: The verse teaches us to publicly acknowledge and praise Hashem's greatness. Rashi explains that Moshe is instructing the people to recognize and declare God's perfect justice and kindness in all His ways. This is a fundamental principle in Judaism—to sanctify God's Name by speaking of His greatness.
Q: Why is calling on God's name important in this verse?
A: Calling on God's Name demonstrates our connection to Him and our reliance on His providence. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 1:1) teaches that the foundation of all foundations is knowing there is a First Cause who gives existence to all. By invoking His Name, we affirm this truth and inspire others to recognize His greatness.
Q: How can we apply 'ascribe greatness to our God' in daily life?
A: We apply this by reciting blessings with proper intent, speaking positively about God's ways, and living in a way that brings honor to His Name. The Talmud (Yoma 86a) teaches that we sanctify God's Name when people say, 'Fortunate is one who learned Torah; see how beautiful his ways are.' Our actions should inspire others to recognize God's greatness.
Q: What is the context of Deuteronomy 32:3 in the Torah?
A: This verse introduces Moshe's prophetic song (Ha'azinu) which he taught Israel before his death. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 306) explains that Moshe begins by establishing the proper attitude for receiving Torah wisdom—approaching with humility and readiness to acknowledge God's greatness. This sets the tone for the profound lessons that follow in the song.
Q: Why does the verse say 'our God' instead of just 'God'?
A: Saying 'our God' emphasizes the personal relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Kli Yakar explains this shows we don't just intellectually acknowledge God's existence, but we have a covenantal bond with Him. This language inspires us to feel closeness to God and responsibility to represent Him properly in the world.