Deuteronomy 2:20

Authorized King James Version

(That also was accounted a land of giants: giants dwelt therein in old time; and the Ammonites call them Zamzummims;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֶֽרֶץ
a land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#2
רְפָאִ֤ים
giants
a giant
#3
תֵּֽחָשֵׁ֖ב
That also was accounted
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
#4
אַף
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
#5
הִ֑וא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#6
רְפָאִ֤ים
giants
a giant
#7
יָֽשְׁבוּ
dwelt
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#8
בָהּ֙
H0
#9
לְפָנִ֔ים
therein in old time
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#10
וְהָֽעַמֹּנִ֔ים
and the Ammonites
an ammonite or (the adjective) ammonitish
#11
יִקְרְא֥וּ
call
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#12
לָהֶ֖ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#13
זַמְזֻמִּֽים׃
them Zamzummims
a zamzumite, or native tribe of palestine

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Deuteronomy.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources