Deuteronomy 2:10 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 2:10 mean?

Deuteronomy 2:10 says that the Emims, a people known for being large, numerous, and tall like the Anakims, used to live in the land being described. The verse highlights the impressive and intimidating nature of these former inhabitants.

In this part of Deuteronomy, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they journey toward the Promised Land. He is recounting the history of the region and its peoples to remind the Israelites of who lived there before. The verse helps set the stage for understanding the land’s history and the challenges the Israelites might face.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 2:10

• אֵימִים (’Emim, transliterated "Emims"): This word refers to a specific group of people known for being feared or terrifying. The name itself carries the sense of dread, which adds to the picture of them as formidable.
• גָּדוֹל (gadol, transliterated "great"): This word means "great" in size or importance. Here, it emphasizes the physical stature and reputation of the Emims.
• רַב (rav, transliterated "many"): This word means "many" or "numerous," pointing out that the Emims were not just big in stature but also a large population.
• רָם (ram, transliterated "tall"): This word means "tall" or "high," underlining that the Emims were physically impressive, similar to the Anakims, another group known for their height.

Why Deuteronomy 2:10 matters

• This verse helps the reader understand that the land the Israelites are entering has a history of being inhabited by powerful and intimidating peoples, which puts their own journey and challenges into perspective.
• By comparing the Emims to the Anakims, the verse connects different parts of Israel’s story and shows that the Israelites are not the first to face such daunting opponents.
• The mention of these ancient peoples serves to remind the Israelites—and the reader—of God’s faithfulness in guiding them through lands with such formidable histories.