“That also was accounted a land of giants: giants dwelt therein in old time; and the Ammonites call them Zamzummims;”
Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and contains the speeches given by Moses to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses is recounting the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness and their encounters with various nations.
Historical Context:Before discussing the verse in detail, let’s understand the historical context. The Israelites had been delivered from slavery in Egypt and were on a forty-year journey to reach the land God had promised them-the land of Canaan.
The Land of Giants: Deuteronomy 2:20 mentions a land of giants, where the Ammonites called them Zamzummims. The term “giants” refers to a group of people who were unusually tall or powerful. They were known for their great physical stature and strength. The Zamzummims were one such group inhabiting the land that would eventually be given to the Ammonites.
Significance and Lessons:
- Recognition of the Land:The mention of the land of giants highlights the Israelites’ awareness of the inhabitants of the land they were about to enter. It indicates that the land they were going to possess was already occupied by formidable people.
- God’s Promise Fulfilled:The mention of the land of giants serves as a reminder of the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham. The existence of giants did not deter God’s plan; instead, it emphasized the importance of relying on His strength and faithfulness.
- Faith and Courage:This verse presents an opportunity for the Israelites to exercise faith and courage in the face of daunting challenges. Despite the presence of giants, the Israelites were to trust in God’s provision and promises as they moved forward.
- Spiritual Application:Symbolically, the land of giants can represent the spiritual battles and obstacles we face in our own lives. It reminds us that as believers, we should not be intimidated by the giants before us-be they fear, doubt, temptation, or any other challenge. Instead, we are to trust in God’s strength and power to overcome them.
Overall Message:
Deuteronomy 2:20, in the context of the broader passage, serves to encourage the Israelites and subsequent readers to trust in God’s faithfulness and promises, even when faced with overwhelming circumstances. It reinforces the need for faith, courage, and reliance on God’s strength as they journey through life.
By studying this verse, we can draw inspiration and apply its principles to our own lives, remembering that with God, we can overcome any “giants” we encounter along our journey of faith.
