Question 1

What does Deuteronomy 2:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

Deuteronomy 2:20 explains that the land being discussed was once known as a territory of giants, with a group called the Zamzummims living there in ancient times. The verse notes that the Ammonites, a neighboring people, used this specific name for these ancient inhabitants. In this part of Deuteronomy, Moses is recounting Israel’s journey and the peoples they encountered or avoided. He describes how the land east of the Jordan River, now held by the Ammonites, was previously inhabited by a race of people considered giants. This detail helps set the stage for understanding the region’s history and the changes in its population over time.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 2:20

Accepted Answer

"Giants" (רְפָאִים, rephaim): This word is often understood as referring to a group of ancient people known for their great size and strength, not just generic "giants." The use of רְפָאִים (rephaim) connects this land to other biblical references about formidable ancient peoples. "Zamzummims" (זַמְזֻמִּים, zamzummim): This is a specific name used by the Ammonites for the former inhabitants. The mention of their local name highlights the way different groups remembered and labeled the same people. "Accounted" (חָשַׁב, chashav): This word means "regarded as" or "considered." The verse is saying that people thought of this land as belonging to the giants, emphasizing its reputation.

Question 3

Why Deuteronomy 2:20 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse clarifies that the land’s reputation for giants was widely recognized, not just an Israelite tradition, but also among neighboring nations like the Ammonites. By mentioning the Zamzummims by name, the verse preserves a piece of local history and shows that the biblical narrative is aware of other peoples’ traditions and names. This detail helps explain why the Israelites were cautious or respectful about certain territories, as these lands had a history of powerful inhabitants and were now under the control of other established nations.

Deuteronomy 2:20 (KJV)