Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 32:31 mean when it says 'their rock is not as our Rock'?
A: This verse contrasts the false gods or powers of other nations ('their rock') with the true and eternal G-d of Israel ('our Rock'). Rashi explains that even Israel's enemies recognize the superiority of G-d, acknowledging that He is the true source of strength and justice.
Q: Why is Deuteronomy 32:31 important in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse is part of the 'Song of Ha'azinu,' which Moshe (Moses) taught the Jewish people before his passing. It emphasizes the uniqueness of G-d's relationship with Israel and serves as a reminder that even adversaries recognize His supremacy. The Rambam (Maimonides) cites this idea when discussing the foundations of Jewish faith.
Q: How does Deuteronomy 32:31 apply to our lives today?
A: The verse teaches us to recognize and appreciate the uniqueness of our connection to G-d. Just as the nations' false ideologies ('their rock') cannot compare to the truth of Torah ('our Rock'), we must remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that even critics may secretly acknowledge its righteousness.
Q: What does it mean that 'our enemies themselves being judges' in this verse?
A: Rashi explains that even Israel's enemies, when acting as fair judges, would admit that the Jewish people's G-d is the true and just Rock. The Midrash (Sifrei) adds that this refers to moments when nations acknowledge G-d's justice, such as when they see the downfall of the wicked who oppressed Israel.
Q: How do Jewish commentators explain the metaphor of 'Rock' in this verse?
A: The term 'Rock' (צוּר) symbolizes strength, stability, and protection. Rashi and Ibn Ezra explain that while other nations rely on fleeting or false sources of power ('their rock'), Israel's true foundation is G-d ('our Rock'), who is eternal and unchanging. This metaphor appears throughout Tanach to describe G-d's unwavering support for His people.
Understanding the Verse in Context
The verse "כִּי לֹא כְצוּרֵנוּ צוּרָם וְאֹיְבֵינוּ פְּלִילִים׃" (Devarim 32:31) appears in Shirat Ha'azinu, Moshe Rabbeinu's prophetic song to Bnei Yisrael before his passing. The song contrasts the eternal faithfulness of Hashem with the falsehood of idolatry and the nations who worship it.
Literal Interpretation (Peshat)
Rashi explains that the verse emphasizes the incomparable nature of Hashem ("our Rock") versus the false deities of other nations ("their rock"). Even Israel's enemies ("אֹיְבֵינוּ") acknowledge this truth, serving as "judges" ("פְּלִילִים") who testify to Hashem's supremacy. The Ibn Ezra adds that this refers to historical instances where adversaries admitted Israel's unique relationship with Hashem (e.g., Pharaoh's magicians in Shemot 8:15).
Midrashic Insights (Derash)
Philosophical Perspective (Rambam)
In Moreh Nevuchim (1:16), Rambam interprets "Rock" (צור) as a metaphor for Hashem's unchanging, necessary existence—unlike the transient, imagined powers of idolatry. The verse thus teaches that all rational observers, even adversaries, must concede this truth.
Halachic Implication (Talmudic View)
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 39a) links this verse to the idea that gentile rulers sometimes recognize Hashem's hand in history, such as Nevuchadnezzar's admission of Divine justice (Daniel 2:47). This reinforces the principle of Kiddush Hashem—when even outsiders affirm Hashem's sovereignty.
Chassidic Interpretation (Kedushas Levi)
Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev teaches that the verse hints at the futility of opposing Hashem's will: enemies who seek to harm Israel inadvertently become witnesses to Divine providence, as their own words or actions ultimately reveal Hashem's justice.