The Hebrew word ʼÊymîym, represented by H368, refers to an early tribe known as the Emims. The term's base definition is "terrors," likely reflecting the formidable reputation of this people. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses, identifying a powerful tribe that inhabited a region before the Moabites.
In the biblical narrative, the Emims are depicted as one of the ancient peoples of the land. They are first mentioned as being smitten by an alliance of kings led by Chedorlaomer Genesis 14:5. The book of Deuteronomy provides more detail, explaining that the Emims had dwelt in the land in times past, and were a people described as great, many, and tall, comparable to the well-known Anakims Deuteronomy 2:10. It is noted that while they were considered giants (Rephaim) like the Anakims, it was the Moabites who specifically called them Emims Deuteronomy 2:11.
Several related words help to define the characteristics of the Emims:
- H7497 râphâʼ (a giant): The Emims were accounted as giants, which places them in the same category as other formidable ancient peoples like the Rephaim Deuteronomy 2:11.
- H6062 ʻĂnâqîy (an Anakite or descendant of Anak): The Anakims are used as a direct standard of comparison for the stature of the Emims, emphasizing that they were a people as great and tall as the Anakims Deuteronomy 2:10.
- H1419 gâdôwl (great): This adjective is used to establish the Emims as a powerful and significant nation, describing them as "a people great" Deuteronomy 2:10.
The theological significance of H368 is tied to God's sovereignty over all nations, regardless of their strength.
- Divine Sovereignty: The Emims, a people described as great and tall Deuteronomy 2:10, exemplify a mighty human force. Their eventual displacement from the land demonstrates God's ultimate authority to establish and remove nations according to His will.
- A Precedent for Israel: The story of the Emims being dispossessed for the Moabites serves as a historical lesson for the Israelites. It shows that God was capable of defeating giant clans, thereby encouraging Israel to trust that He could do the same for them against the Anakims in the promised land Deuteronomy 2:10-11.
- Fearsome Peoples: The name Emims itself is rooted in the idea of "terrors," highlighting their intimidating presence. This makes their removal a more profound testament to a divine power greater than any worldly might.
In summary, H368 ʼÊymîym is not just a historical label but a testament to divine power. This tribe of "terrors," known for being as great and tall as the Anakims, serves as a key example in the biblical record of God's sovereignty over the mightiest of peoples. Their story illustrates that no human power is absolute and that God orchestrates history to fulfill His purposes.
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