This week’s Torah portion, Haazinu, provides a prophetic snapshot of our nation’s long history. It speaks of G-d’s eternal love for His nation. The Torah speaks glowingly of how the Jews followed G-d in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt, trusting that He would provide for their needs. He subsequently brings them to the Land of Israel where they are afforded all the amenities: peace in the land and abundant wealth.

These good times eventually lead the Jews to turn away from G-d. They forsake His calling and turn to new-age deities. They turn their backs on their great heritage. G-d sends them into exile when they no longer appreciate His great kindness. He scatters them across the globe where they are subjected to foreign rulers who treat them harshly and mercilessly. They are victims of frequent persecutions.

But something miraculous takes place. As much as the Jews suffer, they still survive as a people! This spurs the Jews to realize that G-d may have punished them for their sins but He has not abandoned them. He is always watching over His beloved nation. This spurs them to “return” to G-d by renewing their commitment to the Torah and its laws. G-d will ultimately take revenge on those nations who harmed His people. The Jewish Nation will then return to the Land of Israel in all its glory at the time of the ultimate redemption.