דברים, פרק ב׳, פסוק כ׳

The historical journey of the Israelites pauses to offer a glimpse into the ancient past of the land of Ammon, tracing how the territory shifted from a nation of giants into the hands of Lot’s descendants. Originally, this vast expanse was controlled by a race of giants known as the Rephaim. Over time, the massive territory was divided as Moab, Ammon, and Og, the king of Bashan, conquered various sections [רמב״ן, הטור הארוך, ביאור יש״ר]. The ancient status of this land sparks a debate regarding its connection to the divine promise made to Abraham. One perspective maintains that despite its history, this specific area is not the territory of the Rephaim promised to the Israelites. Because the Israelites might assume they have a right to conquer Ammon based on that ancient promise, this historical background serves as a boundary marker. It clarifies that God specifically granted this region to the descendants of Lot due to their relation to Abraham, making it strictly forbidden for the Israelites to attack them [רש״י, ברכת אשר על התורה]. Conversely, another view argues that this territory is indeed an inseparable part of the gift promised to Abraham. Even though it is currently known as the land of Ammon, it remains part of the promised inheritance, having only been temporarily transferred to Lot’s descendants through the shifts of history [אור החיים, רשב״ם].

The conquest of this land was far from a natural military victory. The original giant inhabitants were wild, lawless people of massive proportions [העמק דבר]. The Ammonites lacked the natural strength to drive them out on their own. Instead, it was God who intervened and destroyed the giants for them, just as He orchestrated the rise and fall of other nations throughout history [ספורנו, מלבי״ם]. Sharing this piece of history serves a vital purpose for the Israelites. It is meant to instill deep confidence as they face their own impending battles. If the Ammonites could successfully defeat a nation of giants with God's help, the Israelites can be certain that they too will overcome their enemies when the time comes [רשב״ם].

Following their victory, the Ammonites renamed the conquered giants, calling them the Zamzumim [רמב״ן]. This name reflects their core nature, which was rooted in plotting and scheming. These giants were not merely towering brutes; they were highly intelligent, cunning, and skilled in the strategies of war [הדר זקנים, חזקוני, נתינה לגר]. They harnessed their immense physical strength to execute their malicious plans, and because of their sheer power, no one could stop them from carrying out whatever they plotted [הטור הארוך, ביאור יש״ר, רש״ר הירש]. This rare and deadly combination of physical might and tactical brilliance made them an enemy that was nearly impossible to defeat through natural means [העמק דבר].