Topical Bible: The Amalekites: Character of Oppressive

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The Amalekites, descendants of Amalek, the grandson of Esau (Genesis 36:12), are frequently depicted in the Bible as a nomadic tribe characterized by their hostility and oppressive nature towards the Israelites. Their actions and interactions with the Israelites are marked by aggression and enmity, which have led to their portrayal as a symbol of opposition to God's people.

Biblical Accounts of Oppression

The first encounter between the Israelites and the Amalekites occurs shortly after the Exodus from Egypt. As the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, the Amalekites launched an unprovoked attack at Rephidim. This act of aggression is recorded in Exodus 17:8-16, where Moses, with the help of Aaron and Hur, held up his hands to ensure Israel's victory. The Lord declared, "I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven" (Exodus 17:14), highlighting the severity of their offense.

The Amalekites' oppressive nature is further emphasized in Deuteronomy 25:17-19, where Moses reminds the Israelites of how the Amalekites attacked them when they were weary and vulnerable, striking down those who lagged behind. This cowardly tactic underscores their ruthless and opportunistic character. The passage commands the Israelites to remember this act and to "blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven" once they have rest from their enemies.

Continued Hostility

The Amalekites continued to be a thorn in the side of Israel throughout their history. During the period of the Judges, they allied with the Moabites and Ammonites to oppress Israel (Judges 3:13). Later, they joined forces with the Midianites to raid and plunder the land, as described in Judges 6:3-5. These repeated incursions demonstrate their persistent antagonism and oppressive behavior.

In 1 Samuel 15, King Saul is commanded by God through the prophet Samuel to "go and attack the Amalekites and devote to destruction all that they have" (1 Samuel 15:3). This divine directive is a response to their longstanding enmity and is intended to fulfill the earlier pronouncement against them. Saul's failure to fully carry out this command results in his rejection as king, illustrating the seriousness with which God viewed the Amalekite threat.

Symbol of Opposition

The Amalekites' oppressive character is not only a historical reality but also serves as a symbol of spiritual opposition. In Jewish and Christian traditions, Amalek is often seen as representing the forces that oppose God's will and His people. This symbolic interpretation is rooted in their consistent efforts to thwart Israel's progress and survival.

Throughout the biblical narrative, the Amalekites embody the archetype of an oppressive enemy, one that seeks to exploit weakness and hinder the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Their legacy, as recorded in Scripture, serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle between the forces of good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 10:12
The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and you cried to me, and I delivered you out of their hand.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Treatise of the Fear of God;
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a treatise of the fear.htm