Deuteronomy 2:10
The Emims dwelt therein in times past, a people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakims;
Original Language Analysis
לְפָנִ֖ים
therein in times past
H6440
לְפָנִ֖ים
therein in times past
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
2 of 9
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
יָ֣שְׁבוּ
dwelt
H3427
יָ֣שְׁבוּ
dwelt
Strong's:
H3427
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
עַ֣ם
a people
H5971
עַ֣ם
a people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
5 of 9
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
וְרַ֛ב
and many
H7227
וְרַ֛ב
and many
Strong's:
H7227
Word #:
7 of 9
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
Historical Context
The Emims were one of several giant peoples (Rephaim) inhabiting Canaan before being displaced. Like Israel's conquest of the Anakim, Moab's earlier defeat of the Emims demonstrated God's providential control over all nations' histories. This comparative history shows God's justice operates universally, not just within Israel.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing God's sovereignty over all nations broaden your understanding of His justice?
- What past 'giants' has God already defeated in your life to bring you to your current position?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The parenthetical note about the Emims—'The Emims dwelt therein in times past, a people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakims'—provides historical background on Moab's land. These giants were displaced by Lot's descendants, showing that God had already given Moab their victory over formidable foes, just as He would do for Israel. This establishes that God's power to defeat giants isn't unique to Israel—He sovereignly distributes lands and empowers nations according to His purposes.