The Evil Behavior of Amalek"

"It highlights the significance of justice and righteousness and emphasizes the evil of unprovoked aggression and violence."

The story of Amalek is a significant narrative in the Torah and Parashat Ki Tetzeh ends with a reference to Amalek. “Remember what Amalek did to you on your way out of Egypt. When they encountered you on the way, and you were tired and exhausted, they cut off those lagging to your rear, and they did not fear HaShem.” Devarim (Deuteronomy) 25:17-19. The Torah tells us that the Amalekites were a tribe descended from Esav, the twin brother of Yaakov and the grandson of Avraham. The Amalekites became known for their hostile and aggressive behavior towards the Israelites.

The first encounter between the Israelites and the Amalekites occurred shortly after the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt. As the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness toward the Promised Land, the Amalekites attacked them from behind, targeting the weak and weary who were lagging behind the main group. This unprovoked and vicious assault on a vulnerable population demonstrated the evil behavior of the Amalekites.

Moshe, the leader of the Israelites, instructed Yehoshua (Joshua) to select men to lead the Israelite army and engage the Amalekites in battle. As the battle ensued, Moshe stood on a hill overlooking the battlefield, holding up the staff of HaShem. Whenever Moshe raised his hands, the Israelites prevailed, but when his hands grew tired and fell, the Amalekites gained the upper hand. Eventually, with the help of Aaron and Hur supporting Moshe, the Israelites emerged victorious.

Following this victory, HaShem commanded Moshe to record the incident and proclaimed that He would have war with Amalek from generation to generation. This divine decree reflects the severity of Amalek’s wickedness and the enduring consequences they would face.

The story of Amalek serves as an important moral lesson in the Torah. It highlights the significance of justice and righteousness and emphasizes the evil nature of unprovoked aggression and violence. It also underscores the notion that HaShem is the G-d of justice who opposes the wicked and protects the weak and vulnerable. This narrative conveys moral lessons about the consequences of evil actions and the importance of living a righteous life.