Abstract

Two theologically rich songs within the Pentateuch both incorporate elements of the praise of God but for quite different purposes. The Song of the Sea in Exodus 15:1–21 celebrates God’s victory against Israel’s enemy, the Egyptian Pharaoh and his army. The whole community (men and women) join together after the victory in joyful praise and celebration. The Song of Moses in Deuteronomy 32:1–43, in contrast, includes the praise of God as part of God’s larger indictment against God’s own people, Israel, as well as judgment against an unnamed enemy nation who will oppress Israel. A number of theological implications concerning the praise of God flow out of the dialogue between Exodus 15 and Deuteronomy 32 regarding the power of song and praise, the relationship of vengeance and praise, and the rich mix of metaphors for God (warrior, shepherd, farmer, birthing and nursing mother, rock, an eagle parenting its young) contained within these songs.

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