Remembering what Amalek did was a command for Israel to keep in mind the treachery and cruelty shown by the Amalekites, who attacked them from behind during their journey out of Egypt. This command emphasized God’s justice and Israel’s responsibility to deal with persistent evil.
“Remember what Amalek did to you on the way as you were coming out of Egypt, how he met you on the way and attacked your rear ranks, all the stragglers at your rear, when you were tired and weary; and he did not fear God.” (Deuteronomy 25:17–18)
The Amalekites targeted the weak and defenseless. Their actions were cowardly and godless. Because of this, God declared judgment:
“Therefore it shall be, when the Lord your God has given you rest from your enemies all around… that you will blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven. You shall not forget.” (Deuteronomy 25:19)
This was not about personal revenge but about fulfilling divine justice. Israel was not to act rashly but to wait until God gave them rest, then act in obedience. This long memory served to instill a holy hatred of evil and the necessity of obedience in executing judgment.
The command to remember also warns against forgetting spiritual dangers. Amalek symbolized enmity against God and His people. Just as Israel was to remember their deliverance, they were also to remember their enemies… not for bitterness, but for obedience and vigilance.
