Amalek
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Amalek in the Bible?
Amalek was the son of Eliphaz, the eldest son of Esau, and one of the chiefs of Edom. He is mentioned in Genesis 36:12 and 16.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Amalek clarifies the genealogical structure of the Edomite nation and establishes the ancestral lineage of the group that later became Israel's archetypal enemy in the wilderness narratives.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Amalek reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Amalek in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Amalek clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Genesis 36:12
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Amalek." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/amalek/