The Battle with Amalek

You may be wondering, “Who is Amalek?” or “Why should I spend time studying someone mentioned only a few times in the Old Testament?” It’s possible you’ve never even heard his name before.

​

So who was he? Amalek was a figure in the Old Testament, a descendant of Abraham through Isaac’s line, the grandson of Esau. Amalek is also known for being the first to attack the Israelites after they left Egypt and were journeying toward the Promised Land.

​

But why study someone with such a small role in Scripture? Because his role in Scripture teaches us about a continual, internal struggle that every believer faces. Amalek represents the conflict between the flesh and the spirit, and because the consequences of this struggle are serious, it’s essential for Christians to recognize and understand it.

​

​According to the account in Exodus 17 (also Deuteronomy 25:17-19), just days after leaving Egypt the Israelites arrived at a place called Rephidim. The name means “place of beds,” suggesting rest—yet it was rest taken too soon, as this was not the land where God intended them to find safety. At Rephidim, the Amalekites launched their first attack. Their method was to strike from behind, targeting the weary and the weak—those least prepared to defend themselves.​

​

It's extremely important to understand what Scripture is teaching us through the study of Amalek, because there truly is a kingdom at stake. And God makes it clear that not knowing these things does not excuse us from accountability and coming judgment if we find ourselves woefully unprepared when that Day arrives.