Deuteronomy 25:19
Therefore it shall be, when the LORD thy God hath given thee rest from all thine enemies round about, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance to possess it, that thou shalt blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven; thou shalt not forget it.
Deuteronomy 25:19 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Deuteronomy is a directive from God to the Israelites regarding their relationship with the Amalekites, a group of people who had been hostile to the Israelites in the past. The verse emphasizes the importance of remembering the actions of their enemies and taking action to ensure that their memory is erased. The command to "blot out the remembrance of Amalek" signifies the need to completely destroy any trace of their existence, both physically and in memory. This is a reminder to the Israelites that they should not allow their enemies to be a threat to them in the future. By obeying this command, the Israelites demonstrate their loyalty to God and their commitment to securing the land that has been promised to them. It serves as a warning against complacency and a call to vigilance in the face of opposition.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the command to blot out the remembrance of Amalek may seem harsh or even cruel at first glance. However, when we delve into the theological interpretation of this passage, we can see that there is a deeper significance to this directive. The Amalekites were known for their unprovoked attacks on the Israelites, showing hostility and disobedience towards God. Therefore, the eradication of their memory symbolizes the removal of evil and rebellion from the land that God has given to His people. It serves as a reminder that God's chosen people are called to uphold righteousness and purity, even in the face of fierce opposition. This act was not driven by revenge, but rather by the desire to establish a holy and sanctified inheritance for future generations to come. As believers, we are called to similarly rid ourselves of sin and wickedness, ensuring that our lives are dedicated to God and His purposes.
Deuteronomy 25:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
Therefore it shall be, when Jehovah thy God hath given thee rest from all thine enemies round about, in the land which Jehovah thy God giveth thee for an inheritance to possess it, that thou shalt blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven; thou shalt not forget.
World English Bible
Therefore it shall be, when Yahweh your God has given you rest from all your enemies all around, in the land which Yahweh your God gives you for an inheritance to possess it, that you shall blot out the memory of Amalek from under the sky. You shall not forget.
Douay-Rheims
Therefore when the Lord thy God shall give thee rest, and shall have subdued all the nations round about in the land which he hath promised thee: thou shalt blot out his name from under heaven. See thou forget it not.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore, when the Lord thy God hath giuen thee rest from all thine enemies round about in the land, which the Lord thy God giueth thee for an inheritance to possesse it, then thou shalt put out the remembrance of Amalek from vnder heauen: forget not.