Names
- Emim
- Emites
The Emims dwelt therein in times past, a people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakim
Deuteronomy 2:10
The Emim, known as Emites in English, were identified in the Moabite language as the Repha’im, a term found in the Hebrew Bible. Their portrayal in biblical texts highlights their significance in the ancient Near East:
- Description in Biblical Texts: The Emim are described in the Book of Deuteronomy, particularly in chapter 2, as a formidable and populous people. This description underscores their strength and the considerable challenge they posed to other groups in the region.
- Conquest by the Moabites: The biblical narrative states that the Emim were eventually defeated by the Moabites, who then took possession of their land. This conquest reflects the dynamic and often violent nature of territorial disputes in the ancient Near East.
- Additional Biblical References: Besides Deuteronomy, the Emim are mentioned in Genesis 14:5, indicating their presence and relevance in multiple biblical accounts and contexts.
- Etymology and Interpretation: According to Rashi, a medieval Jewish commentator, the name “Emim” translates as “the dreaded ones.” The singular form in Hebrew, “Ema” or “Emma” (אימה), means “horror” or “terror.” This etymology suggests that the Emim were feared or held in awe, potentially due to their size, strength, or reputation as formidable warriors.
The depiction of the Emim as both a powerful people and a group that evoked fear or horror reflects the broader narrative themes of conflict, conquest, and the cultural perceptions of different peoples in the Hebrew Bible. Their association with the Repha’im, a group often characterized as giants or mighty warriors, further emphasizes these themes.
