How to Pronounce Amalek

We’ve all struggled to pronounce Bible names and places, especially those pesky Old Testament names! This free audio Bible name pronunciation guide is a valuable tool in your study of God’s word. Click the PLAY button below to hear how to pronounce Amalek . There is also a phonetic guide to use to see the proper pronunciation of Amalek . For more information about Amalek , check out the Easton Bible dictionary entry as well.

Audio Pronunciation of Amalek

Phonetic Pronunciation of Amalek

AM-uh-lehk

How to Say Amalek

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Learn more about Amalek

Introduction to Amalek

Amalek is a significant figure in the Bible as the eponymous ancestor of the Amalekites, a nomadic people who were persistent enemies of Israel. Amalek was the grandson of Esau through his son Eliphaz and Eliphaz’s concubine, Timna (Genesis 36:12). His descendants, the Amalekites, became synonymous with hostility toward God’s chosen people and were subject to divine judgment throughout biblical history.

Amalek Pronunciation

“Amalek” is pronounced as AM-uh-lek, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Amalek in the Bible

Genealogy

Amalek is introduced in Genesis 36:12 as part of Esau’s lineage. His position in Esau’s family tree connects him to the Edomites, although the Amalekites are often treated as a distinct group in the biblical narrative.

First Conflict with Israel

The Amalekites are first mentioned in Exodus 17:8-16, where they attacked the Israelites at Rephidim shortly after their exodus from Egypt. In this battle, Moses, with the help of Aaron and Hur, raised his hands in prayer while Joshua led Israel’s forces to victory. This event marked the Amalekites as perpetual enemies of Israel, and God declared that He would “blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven” (Exodus 17:14).

Continued Hostility

The Amalekites continued to oppose Israel during their wilderness journey (Numbers 14:43-45) and in subsequent generations. In 1 Samuel 15, King Saul was commanded by God to destroy the Amalekites completely as part of divine judgment for their aggression. Saul’s failure to fully obey this command, sparing King Agag and some of the plunder, led to his rejection as king by God. Later, David fought against the Amalekites and recovered stolen property and captives (1 Samuel 30).

Haman the Agagite

In the Book of Esther, Haman, identified as an Agagite, is considered by many scholars to be a descendant of the Amalekites. His plot to annihilate the Jews is seen as a continuation of the Amalekite hostility toward Israel and underscores the enduring enmity between the two peoples.

Amalek in Biblical History and Context

The Amalekites were a nomadic group inhabiting the region of the Negev and Sinai. Their attacks on vulnerable groups, such as Israel during the exodus, and their guerilla-style warfare characterized them as ruthless enemies. The repeated conflicts between Israel and Amalek reflect the broader themes of divine justice, covenant fidelity, and the struggle between God’s people and opposing forces.

Theological Significance of Amalek

Amalek and the Amalekites symbolize opposition to God’s purposes and the need for complete reliance on Him for victory. Their perpetual conflict with Israel serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the assurance of God’s ultimate triumph over evil.

Related Terms and Meanings

- Amalekites: The descendants of Amalek, known for their hostility toward Israel. - Agag: A king of the Amalekites spared by Saul, later killed by Samuel. - Exodus 17: The chapter recounting the first battle between Israel and the Amalekites.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Amalek

- The name “Amalek” is derived from a Semitic root meaning “people of the valley” or “dweller in the lowlands.” - The curse against Amalek in Exodus 17 is one of the strongest declarations of divine judgment in the Bible. - Jewish tradition reads the story of Amalek on the Sabbath before Purim to commemorate the defeat of Haman, considered an Amalekite descendant. - The Amalekites’ recurring role as adversaries highlights the theme of God’s justice against persistent opposition to His will.