English: Moshe said “Give ear, O heavens… and let the earth hear,” while Yeshayahu said “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth,” in order to assign both attentive listening and hearing to the heavens and to the earth.
The classical source expands or derives a specific point from the language of the passuk. The Core Text above is the relevant region of interest.
Type of Learning
Custom (A comparison of two prophetic calls that together complete the testimony of heaven and earth.)
What Is Learned
By reversing the verbs, Moshe and Yeshayahu together ensure that both heaven and earth are fully enlisted as witnesses. The double language leaves no gap in the testimony that stands against Israel.