Shamayim Va-Aretz ~ Heaven and Earth ~ They are watching us!
The Song of Moses calls upon 'heaven and earth' to bear witness. "Gather
to Me all the elders of your tribes that I may speak these words to them, and that I may call Shamayim va-Aretz to testify." Deuteronomy 31:28-29
Why are specifically 'heaven and earth' summoned as witnesses?
Although the answer may seem obvious at first, there may be far more here than first meets the eye.
1. An eternal witness: Heaven and earth exist forever and can thus serve as eternal witnesses. Whereas Moses
himself is mortal, he must summon the everlasting forces of nature as his witnesses.
2. 'Heaven and Earth' will reward Israel with adequate rainfall and plenty should they follow Yahveh’s
covenant, and punish them with drought should they disobey Him.
Not only do they provide eternal testimony, but they also help enforce the covenant ~ 'Someone' is always
there watching.
