Amalek: Probably not the Ancestor of the Amalekites Mentioned in Time of Abraham
Jump to: Nave'sLibrarySubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Amalek is a figure mentioned in the Bible, often associated with the Amalekites, a nomadic tribe that frequently opposed the Israelites. However, there is a distinction to be made between Amalek, the grandson of Esau, and the Amalekites mentioned during the time of Abraham. This entry explores the identity and significance of Amalek within the biblical narrative.

Genealogy and Identity

Amalek is introduced in the genealogical records of Genesis. He is the son of Eliphaz and the grandson of Esau, the brother of Jacob. Genesis 36:12 states, "Additionally, Timna, a concubine of Esau’s son Eliphaz, bore Amalek." This positions Amalek as a descendant of Esau, the patriarch of the Edomites, and suggests a familial connection to the Israelites through Isaac and Abraham.

The Amalekites in the Time of Abraham

The Amalekites are first mentioned in Genesis 14:7 during the time of Abraham, long before the birth of Esau's grandson Amalek. This has led to scholarly debate regarding the identity of the Amalekites in this context. It is possible that the term "Amalekites" was used anachronistically or to describe a pre-existing group that later became associated with Amalek's descendants.

Role in Israelite History

The Amalekites are most notably recognized for their hostility towards the Israelites during the Exodus. In Exodus 17:8-16 , the Amalekites attacked the Israelites at Rephidim, leading to a significant battle where Moses, with the help of Aaron and Hur, held up his hands to ensure Israel's victory. This event marked the beginning of a long-standing enmity between the two groups.

The Lord declared perpetual war against Amalek, as recorded in Exodus 17:14 : "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Write this on a scroll as a reminder and recite it to Joshua, because I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.'" This divine decree underscored the severity of the Amalekites' opposition to God's chosen people.

Further Conflicts and Divine Judgment

The Amalekites continued to be a thorn in Israel's side throughout their history. In 1 Samuel 15, King Saul was commanded by God, through the prophet Samuel, to completely destroy the Amalekites as an act of divine judgment for their past transgressions. Saul's failure to fully execute this command led to his rejection as king.

The Amalekites reappear in the narrative of Esther, where Haman, a descendant of Agag, the Amalekite king spared by Saul, plots to annihilate the Jewish people. This connection highlights the enduring enmity and the fulfillment of God's judgment against Amalek.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Amalek and the Amalekites symbolize the persistent opposition to God's purposes and His people. Their repeated conflicts with Israel serve as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face. The narrative of Amalek underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of failing to fully carry out His will.

In summary, while Amalek is a significant figure in the genealogical and historical context of the Bible, the association with the Amalekites during Abraham's time remains a complex issue. The enduring legacy of Amalek and his descendants is one of enmity against God's people, serving as a cautionary tale of rebellion and divine justice.
Nave's Topical Index
Genesis 14:7
And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelled in Hazezontamar.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... down they whose root is in Amalek:"out of ... having been already mentioned with Deborah,
probably Zebulon should ... Meroz in passing, "because they came not to the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Resources
Why is Jerusalem known as the City of David? | GotQuestions.org

Is God evil? Is the Bible evil? | GotQuestions.org

Who were the Amalekites? | GotQuestions.org

Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Am'alek
Top of Page
Top of Page