Deuteronomy 2:21

A people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakims; but the Lord destroyed them before them; and they succeeded them, and dwelt in their stead:

Deuteronomy 2:21 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and part of the Torah, containing Moses’ teachings to the Israelites. In this passage, Moses recounts events during the wilderness journey toward the Promised Land after liberation from Egypt. The Israelites had already passed through territories of the Edomites, Moabites, and Ammonites, and were now approaching the land of the Amorites. This verse is part of a historical review explaining how various peoples came to inhabit their lands.

Meaning

The verse describes a people who were great, many, and tall, like the Anakims. The Anakims were a people of giant stature, descendants of Anak, known for their height and strength. The KJV identifies this people as the Zamzummim in Deuteronomy 2:20, a group also called Rephaim in some translations. The Lord destroyed them before the Ammonites, enabling the Ammonites to dispossess them and settle in their land.

The latter part of the verse, “and they succeeded them, and dwelt in their stead,” indicates that after the destruction of the Zamzummim, the Ammonites inherited their land. God had cleared the way for them to occupy the territory. The immediate context in Deuteronomy 2:19 shows that the land of the Ammonites was given to the children of Lot, and Israel was not to meddle with them. This historical note demonstrates God’s sovereign control over nations and His faithfulness to His promises.

Biblical connections

This event parallels the earlier account of the Emim, who were similarly great, many, and tall, and were destroyed before the Moabites (Deuteronomy 2:10-11). It also foreshadows the Lord’s later enabling of Israel to conquer the Anakim in Canaan (Deuteronomy 9:2). The verse emphasizes that the Lord’s power is not limited by human size or numbers; He can give victory to His people over formidable foes.

Application

The passage demonstrates divine intervention and guidance throughout Israel’s journey. It reflects God’s protection, provision, and sovereignty, reminding readers of His active role in history. The verse emphasizes that it was the Lord who accomplished the destruction of the Zamzummim, serving as a reminder of God’s power and faithfulness. It reaffirms that the Lord was actively involved in the journey and capable of defeating any obstacle that stood in the way.

As we study the Bible, it is important to consider the historical and cultural context of each passage, as well as the overall narrative and theological themes. The verse serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and His role in the Israelites’ journey, yet it is only a small part of the broader story found in the Book of Deuteronomy and the Bible as a whole.

Reflection

God’s purposes are accomplished through His mighty acts, not by human strength. The destruction of these giants before the Ammonites shows that the Lord can clear the way for His people, regardless of the size or strength of the opposition. This truth encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereign power and faithfulness in their own lives.