Scripture References:
st. 1 = Deut. 32:1, 34
st. 2 = Deut. 32:34-38
st. 3 = Deut. 33:26-29

Deuteronomy 32 and 33, which form the basis of this song, compile a series of blessings and judgments that Moses chanted to God's people prior to his death. Like the better known text in Exodus 15, Deuteronomy 32:1-43 is a Song of Moses (PHH 152). It was known in medieval Christianity as one of the "lesser" Old Testament canticles. In 1985 Calvin Seerveld (PHH 22) paraphrased some key passages from the two chapters – 32:1, 3-4, 34-38, and 33:26-29¬highlighting the praise due to God (st. 1), the death that results from disobedience (st. 2), and God's saving power for his chosen people (st. 3). Seerveld wanted to give voice to the Song of Moses, a song that the apostle John heard sung in heaven (Rev. 15:3).

Liturgical Use:
In presenting central themes of the gospel such as praise, judgment, and salvation, "Give Ear, O Earth" is appropriate in the service of the Word before or after the sermon. Its third stanza also suggests Advent. Seerveld notes that it is suitable as a song of thanksgiving whenever God's people overcome a difficult trial.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook