This verse from Deuteronomy 9:2 is part of Moses's speech to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. It highlights the intimidating nature of the enemies they will face, specifically the "sons of the Anakim." Let's break down the verse:
"a people great and tall": This emphasizes the physical size and strength of the inhabitants of Canaan. It aims to instill a sense of awe and fear in the Israelites.
"the sons of the Anakim": The Anakim were a legendary people, known for their immense size and strength. They are often described as giants. Their reputation preceded them, making them a formidable enemy in the eyes of the Israelites.
"whom you know, and of whom you have heard say, 'Who can stand before the sons of Anak?'": This acknowledges that the Israelites were already familiar with the Anakim and their fearsome reputation. The phrase "Who can stand before the sons of Anak?" expresses the perceived invincibility of these people. It suggests that they were considered unbeatable warriors.
In essence, the verse is designed to:
Highlight the challenge ahead: Moses wants the Israelites to understand that conquering the Promised Land will not be easy. They will face powerful and intimidating enemies.
Emphasize the need for faith and reliance on God: By showcasing the daunting nature of the Anakim, Moses implicitly urges the Israelites to trust in God's power to overcome this seemingly insurmountable obstacle. The message is that their victory will not come from their own strength, but from God's intervention.
Set the stage for reminding them of God's past faithfulness: Immediately after this, Moses reminds the Israelites of their past rebellions and emphasizes that it is God's grace, not their righteousness, that will lead them to victory.
The verse plays a crucial role in the narrative of Deuteronomy by underscoring the challenge of conquering the Promised Land and emphasizing the need for the Israelites to trust in God's power and faithfulness. It's a reminder that their success depends not on their own strength but on God's promise and provision.
This verse from Deuteronomy 9:2 is part of Moses's speech to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. It highlights the intimidating nature of the enemies they will face, specifically the "sons of the Anakim." Let's break down the verse:
"a people great and tall": This emphasizes the physical size and strength of the inhabitants of Canaan. It aims to instill a sense of awe and fear in the Israelites.
"the sons of the Anakim": The Anakim were a legendary people, known for their immense size and strength. They are often described as giants. Their reputation preceded them, making them a formidable enemy in the eyes of the Israelites.
"whom you know, and of whom you have heard say, 'Who can stand before the sons of Anak?'": This acknowledges that the Israelites were already familiar with the Anakim and their fearsome reputation. The phrase "Who can stand before the sons of Anak?" expresses the perceived invincibility of these people. It suggests that they were considered unbeatable warriors.
In essence, the verse is designed to:
Highlight the challenge ahead: Moses wants the Israelites to understand that conquering the Promised Land will not be easy. They will face powerful and intimidating enemies.
Emphasize the need for faith and reliance on God: By showcasing the daunting nature of the Anakim, Moses implicitly urges the Israelites to trust in God's power to overcome this seemingly insurmountable obstacle. The message is that their victory will not come from their own strength, but from God's intervention.
Set the stage for reminding them of God's past faithfulness: Immediately after this, Moses reminds the Israelites of their past rebellions and emphasizes that it is God's grace, not their righteousness, that will lead them to victory.
The verse plays a crucial role in the narrative of Deuteronomy by underscoring the challenge of conquering the Promised Land and emphasizing the need for the Israelites to trust in God's power and faithfulness. It's a reminder that their success depends not on their own strength but on God's promise and provision.