5 They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked generation.
5 They are corrupt and not his children; to their shame they are a warped and crooked generation.
5 They have dealt corruptly with him; they are no longer his children because they are blemished; they are a crooked and twisted generation.
5 His messed-up, mixed-up children, his non-children, throw mud at him but none of it sticks.
5 "They have corrupted themselves; They are not His children, Because of their blemish: A perverse and crooked generation.
5 "But they have acted corruptly toward him; when they act so perversely, are they really his children? They are a deceitful and twisted generation.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Deuteronomy 32:5
Commentary on Deuteronomy 32:3-6
(Read Deuteronomy 32:3-6)
"He is a Rock." This is the first time God is called so in Scripture. The expression denotes that the Divine power, faithfulness, and love, as revealed in Christ and the gospel, form a foundation which cannot be changed or moved, on which we may build our hopes of happiness. And under his protection we may find refuge from all our enemies, and in all our troubles; as the rocks in those countries sheltered from the burning rays of the sun, and from tempests, or were fortresses from the enemy. "His work is perfect:" that of redemption and salvation, in which there is a display of all the Divine perfection, complete in all its parts. All God's dealings with his creatures are regulated by wisdom which cannot err, and perfect justice. He is indeed just and right; he takes care that none shall lose by him. A high charge is exhibited against Israel. Even God's children have their spots, while in this imperfect state; for if we say we have no sin, no spot, we deceive ourselves. But the sin of Israel was not habitual, notorious, unrepented sin; which is a certain mark of the children of Satan. They were fools to forsake their mercies for lying vanities. All wilful sinners, especially sinners in Israel, are unwise and ungrateful.