דברים, פרק ט׳, פסוק ב׳

Facing the inhabitants of Canaan brings about a natural sense of dread, as the enemy appears entirely invincible. The impending conquest involves taking over a remarkably strong and powerful nation [ביאור יש״ר]. The exact nature of this enemy's imposing presence is viewed from different perspectives. Their greatness might point to an enormous population size, suggesting that the entire nation is made up of the descendants of giants [רש ר הירש]. Alternatively, the immense physical height and size might describe specifically their military commanders [מלבי״ם]. Regardless of whether the focus is on their sheer numbers or their stature, the practical reality is deeply daunting.

The Israelites' awareness of this threat comes from both direct knowledge and secondhand reports. This duality can be understood chronologically: the general knowledge of Canaan's strength has existed since ancient times, while the hearing refers to the recent, terrifying updates brought back by the spies [ביאור יש״ר]. This split also addresses two distinct groups within the nation. The firsthand knowledge speaks directly to leaders like Joshua and Caleb, who actually walked through the land and saw the reality for themselves. The hearing, on the other hand, speaks to the general public, whose fears were fed by rumors and the accounts of others [אור החיים].

On a deeper level, knowing and hearing represent different ways of grasping the impossibility of the situation. The knowledge stems from the people's own intellect and common sense, which clearly dictates that such a formidable enemy cannot be defeated through natural means [העמק דבר, מלבי״ם]. The hearing represents the global reputation of these giants. The intimidating rumors come from afar, echoed even by other powerful nations who share the exact same fear and repeat a despairing question: who could possibly stand up to these giants and win? [העמק דבר, ביאור שטיינזלץ].