Topical Encyclopedia Amalek is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, known as the son of Eliphaz and the grandson of Esau. His lineage places him within the Edomite family tree, as Esau is the father of the Edomites. Amalek's mother is Timna, a concubine of Eliphaz, making Amalek a descendant of both the patriarchal line of Isaac and the matriarchal line of the Horites through Timna.Genealogy and Early Mentions The genealogy of Amalek is outlined in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 36:12 , it is recorded: "Additionally, Timna, a concubine of Esau’s son Eliphaz, bore Amalek. These were the sons of Esau’s wife Adah." This passage establishes Amalek as a member of Esau's lineage, which is significant given the historical enmity between the descendants of Esau and Jacob (Israel). The Amalekites Amalek is traditionally considered the progenitor of the Amalekites, a nomadic tribe that frequently appears in the Old Testament as adversaries of the Israelites. The Amalekites are first mentioned in the context of a battle with the Israelites shortly after the Exodus from Egypt. In Exodus 17:8-16, the Amalekites attack the Israelites at Rephidim, leading to a significant battle where Moses, with the help of Aaron and Hur, holds up his hands to ensure Israel's victory. This event marks the beginning of a long-standing enmity between the two peoples. Divine Judgment and Conflict The Amalekites are often depicted as a symbol of opposition to God's people, and their actions lead to divine judgment. In Deuteronomy 25:17-19 , the Israelites are commanded to remember what Amalek did to them on their journey out of Egypt and are instructed to blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven once they have rest from their enemies. This command underscores the severity of Amalek's actions and the lasting impact on Israelite history. The conflict with the Amalekites continues throughout the biblical narrative. In 1 Samuel 15, King Saul is instructed by the prophet Samuel to completely destroy the Amalekites as an act of divine retribution. Saul's failure to fully carry out this command leads to his rejection as king, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's directives. Symbolism and Legacy In the broader biblical context, Amalek and the Amalekites often symbolize the perpetual struggle between good and evil, faithfulness and rebellion. Their repeated opposition to Israel serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by God's people and the necessity of reliance on divine strength and guidance. The legacy of Amalek, as the forefather of a people who consistently opposed Israel, is a testament to the enduring themes of conflict and redemption found throughout the Scriptures. His account, while rooted in historical events, also serves as a spiritual allegory for the battles faced by believers in their journey of faith. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 36:12And Timna was concubine to Eliphaz Esau's son; and she bore to Eliphaz Amalek: these were the sons of Adah Esau's wife. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 1:36 Library Chapter xxxvi Resources Who were the Amalekites? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Joshua in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Adah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Amalek: Probably not the Ancestor of the Amalekites Mentioned in Time of Abraham Related Terms |