What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 2:10? The Emites used to live there “The Emites used to live there…” (Deuteronomy 2:10) • Moses is narrating Israel’s journey and pauses to remind the people that Moab’s territory had belonged to another nation—“the Emites.” This detail is not filler; it proves that God actively oversees the rise and fall of nations (Acts 17:26). • The Emites’ earlier eviction by Moab (Deuteronomy 2:9) parallels what Israel is about to do in Canaan. If the descendants of Lot could dislodge entrenched occupants with God’s providence, Israel can trust the same God to keep His promise (Joshua 1:3). • Genesis 14:5 first records the Emim, rooting the account in recognizable history. The Bible’s consistent mention of them underlines its accuracy, not myth. a people great and many “…a people great and many…” (Deuteronomy 2:10) • Size and numbers impressed the ancients, yet God allowed Moab—a comparatively smaller nation—to conquer them. The pattern repeats with Israel over larger Canaanite coalitions (Deuteronomy 7:1–2). • Scripture shows that military odds never override divine purpose: – Exodus 1:9–12—Egypt feared Israel’s growth but couldn’t hinder God. – Deuteronomy 1:28—the spies stressed “people greater and taller,” yet the promise stood. • For believers today, daunting demographics or cultural majorities cannot cancel God’s agenda (Psalm 33:10–11). as tall as the Anakites “…as tall as the Anakites.” (Deuteronomy 2:10) • Anakites were the benchmark for intimidating height (Numbers 13:33). By likening the Emites to them, Moses underscores real, literal giants—not figurative speech—once occupying the region. • Other giant references bolster the point: – Deuteronomy 3:11—Og’s iron bed measuring nearly thirteen feet. – Joshua 11:21–22—Joshua cuts off remaining Anakim. • God’s past dealings with oversized foes steady Israel’s nerves for upcoming battles; the Lord who enabled Moab against giant Emites will empower Israel against giant Anakites (Psalm 135:10–12). • Practically, visible obstacles—whether towering challenges or cultural “giants”—remain subject to the Lord of hosts (1 Samuel 17:45–47). summary Deuteronomy 2:10 is more than a historical footnote. It testifies that God directs nations, diminishes every human advantage, and has already toppled giants before His people set foot in Canaan. Remembering the fall of the Emites strengthens faith that no matter how numerous, powerful, or imposing opponents appear, the promises of God stand sure. |
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