This week’s Torah portion, Tetzave (Exodus 27:20 to 30:10), primarily focuses on the make-up of the Priestly Garments worn by the Kohanim, and some of the sacrificial services in the Tabernacle. In addition to this parasha, we read an additional portion called Parashat Zachor. This extra section recounts how the nation of Amalek attempted to destroy the Jewish people after their Exodus from Egypt:
“Remember what Amalek did to you, on the way as you came forth out of Egypt; how he met you on the way, and smote your hindmost, all that were enfeebled in your rear, while you were faint and weary, and he did not fear God… you shall blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven; you shall not forget.” (Deuteronomy 25:17-19)
The Torah commands us to never forget what Amalek did to us in the Wilderness all those many years ago. It commands us to ‘blot out’ Amalek’s existence. Who is Amalek? And why is the Torah so adamant about getting rid of them?
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Keywords: Amalek, Amalekites, Atheism
Bible reference(s): Exodus 17:8-10, Deuteronomy 25:17-19
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