Exodus 17:14
Exodus 17:14 in Multiple Translations
Then the LORD said to Moses, “Write this on a scroll as a reminder and recite it to Joshua, because I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.”
And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.
and Jehovah said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: that I will utterly blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.
And the Lord said to Moses, Make a record of this in a book, so that it may be kept in memory, and say it again in the ears of Joshua: that all memory of Amalek is to be completely uprooted from the earth.
The Lord told Moses, “Write all this down on a scroll as a reminder and read it out loud to Joshua, because I'm going to completely wipe out the Amalekites so nobody on earth will remember them.”
And the Lord sayde to Moses, Write this for a remembrance in the booke, and rehearse it to Ioshua: for I will vtterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from vnder heauen.
And Jehovah saith unto Moses, 'Write this, a memorial in a Book, and set [it] in the ears of Joshua, that I do utterly wipe away the remembrance of Amalek from under the heavens;'
The LORD said to Moses, “Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: that I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under the sky.”
And the LORD said to Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.
And the Lord said to Moses: Write this for a memorial in a book, and deliver it to the ears of Josue: for I will destroy the memory of Amalec from under heaven.
Then Yahweh said to Moses/me, “Write an account of this battle, and then read it to Joshua. Also write that some day I will completely get rid of the Amalek people-group.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Exodus 17:14
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Exodus 17:14 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
יְהוָ֜ה
אֶל
מֹשֶׁ֗ה
כְּתֹ֨ב
זֹ֤את
זִכָּרוֹן֙
בַּ/סֵּ֔פֶר
וְ/שִׂ֖ים
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
יְהוֹשֻׁ֑עַ
כִּֽי
מָחֹ֤ה
אֶמְחֶה֙
אֶת
זֵ֣כֶר
עֲמָלֵ֔ק
מִ/תַּ֖חַת
הַ/שָּׁמָֽיִם
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יְהוָ֜ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
מֹשֶׁ֗ה
Môsheh
H4872
Moses
N-proper
כְּתֹ֨ב
kâthab
H3789
to write
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
זֹ֤את
zôʼth
H2063
this
Pron
זִכָּרוֹן֙
zikrôwn
H2146
memorial
N-ms
בַּ/סֵּ֔פֶר
çêpher
H5612
scroll
Prep | N-ms
וְ/שִׂ֖ים
sûwm
H7760
to set
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
ʼôzen
H241
ear
Prep | N-fd
יְהוֹשֻׁ֑עַ
Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ
H3091
Joshua
N-proper
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
מָחֹ֤ה
mâchâh
H4229
to wipe
V-Qal-Ptc
אֶמְחֶה֙
mâchâh
H4229
to wipe
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
זֵ֣כֶר
zêker
H2143
memorial
N-ms
עֲמָלֵ֔ק
ʻĂmâlêq
H6002
Amalek
N-proper
מִ/תַּ֖חַת
tachath
H8478
underneath
Prep | Prep
הַ/שָּׁמָֽיִם
shâmayim
H8064
heaven
Art | N-mp
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Exodus 17:14
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
יְהוָ֜ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
מֹשֶׁ֗ה
Môsheh
H4872
"Moses"
N-proper
Moses, the Israelite leader, was born to Amram and Jochebed and led the Exodus from Egypt. He received the law from God and is considered a key figure in the Bible. Moses means 'drawn' in Hebrew.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.2.10; son of: Amram (H6019) and Jochebed (H3115); brother of: Aaron (H0175) and Miriam (H4813); married to Zipporah (H6855); father of: Gershom (H1647) and Eliezer (H0461H); also called Manasseh at Jdg.18.30(?) § Moses = "drawn" the prophet and lawgiver, leader of the exodus
Usage: Occurs in 704 OT verses. KJV: Moses. See also: Exodus 2:10; Exodus 13:1; Exodus 32:21.
כְּתֹ֨ב
kâthab
H3789
"to write"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
To write or record something, including inscribing or engraving. It is used in various contexts, such as writing down a decree or subscribing to an agreement. This word is about putting thoughts or ideas into written form.
Definition: 1) to write, record, enrol 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to write, inscribe, engrave, write in, write on 1a2) to write down, describe in writing 1a3) to register, enrol, record 1a4) to decree 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be written 1b2) to be written down, be recorded, be enrolled 1c) (Piel) to continue writing Aramaic equivalent: ke.tav (כְּתַב "to write" H3790)
Usage: Occurs in 212 OT verses. KJV: describe, record, prescribe, subscribe, write(-ing, -ten). See also: Exodus 17:14; 1 Chronicles 9:1; Psalms 40:8.
זֹ֤את
zôʼth
H2063
"this"
Pron
This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how
Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.
זִכָּרוֹן֙
zikrôwn
H2146
"memorial"
N-ms
A memorial or reminder, this word refers to something that helps people remember important events or people. It can be a written record or a special day. The word is used in the Bible to describe memorials to God.
Definition: memorial, reminder, remembrance
Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: memorial, record. See also: Exodus 12:14; Numbers 17:5; Isaiah 57:8.
בַּ/סֵּ֔פֶר
çêpher
H5612
"scroll"
Prep | N-ms
This word means a written document, like a scroll or book, used to record important events or messages. It appears in books like Isaiah and Matthew, referring to written records.
Definition: : document 1) missive, document, writing, book 1a) missive 1a1) letter (of instruction), written order, commission, request, written decree 1b) legal document, certificate of divorce, deed of purchase, indictment, sign 1c) book, scroll 1c1) book of prophecies 1c2) genealogical register 1c3) law-book 1c4) book (of poems) 1c5) book (of kings) 1c6) books of the canon, scripture 1c7) record book (of God) 1d) book-learning, writing 1d1) be able to read (after verb 'to know')
Usage: Occurs in 174 OT verses. KJV: bill, book, evidence, [idiom] learn(-ed) (-ing), letter, register, scroll. See also: Genesis 5:1; 2 Chronicles 17:9; Psalms 40:8.
וְ/שִׂ֖ים
sûwm
H7760
"to set"
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
This Hebrew word means to put or place something, and is used in many different ways in the Bible, such as to appoint or determine something. It is first used in Genesis to describe God's creation. In the KJV, it is translated as 'appoint' or 'set' in various contexts.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, place, set, appoint, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, set, lay, put or lay upon, lay (violent) hands on 1a2) to set, direct, direct toward 1a2a) to extend (compassion) (fig) 1a3) to set, ordain, establish, found, appoint, constitute, make, determine, fix 1a4) to set, station, put, set in place, plant, fix 1a5) to make, make for, transform into, constitute, fashion, work, bring to pass, appoint, give 1b) (Hiphil) to set or make for a sign 1c) (Hophal) to be set
Usage: Occurs in 550 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring, call (a name), care, cast in, change, charge, commit, consider, convey, determine, [phrase] disguise, dispose, do, get, give, heap up, hold, impute, lay (down, up), leave, look, make (out), mark, [phrase] name, [idiom] on, ordain, order, [phrase] paint, place, preserve, purpose, put (on), [phrase] regard, rehearse, reward, (cause to) set (on, up), shew, [phrase] stedfastly, take, [idiom] tell, [phrase] tread down, (over-)turn, [idiom] wholly, work. See also: Genesis 2:8; Leviticus 20:5; 1 Samuel 21:13.
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
ʼôzen
H241
"ear"
Prep | N-fd
The Hebrew word for ear, referring to the body part or the ability to hear, is used in various contexts, including listening to God's voice in Psalm 40:6. It can also mean to uncover or reveal something, as in 1 Samuel 20:2.
Definition: : ear 1) ear, as part of the body 2) ear, as organ of hearing 3) (subjective) to uncover the ear to reveal; the receiver of divine revelation
Usage: Occurs in 179 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, audience, [phrase] displease, ear, hearing, [phrase] show. See also: Genesis 20:8; Psalms 40:7; Psalms 10:17.
יְהוֹשֻׁ֑עַ
Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ
H3091
"Joshua"
N-proper
Joshua was a leader in the Bible, first mentioned in Ezra 2:2, who helped the Israelites return from exile. His name means Jehovah is salvation, and he is also known as Jeshua in some parts of the Bible. He was a key figure in the conquest of Canaan.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Ezr.2.2; son of: Jehozadak (H3087); father of: Joiakim (H3113); also called Jeshua at Ezr.2.2; 3.2,8; 4.3; 5.2; 1x12.1,7,10,26; § Joshua or Jehoshua = "Jehovah is salvation" 1) son of Nun of the tribe of Ephraim and successor to Moses as the leader of the children of Israel; led the conquest of Canaan 2) a resident of Beth-shemesh on whose land the Ark of the Covenant came to a stop after the Philistines returned it 3) son of Jehozadak and high priest after the restoration 4) governor of Jerusalem under king Josiah who gave his name to a gate of the city of Jerusalem
Usage: Occurs in 199 OT verses. KJV: Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, Joshua. Compare H1954 (הוֹשֵׁעַ), H3442 (יֵשׁוּעַ). See also: Exodus 17:9; Joshua 9:15; Zechariah 6:11.
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
מָחֹ֤ה
mâchâh
H4229
"to wipe"
V-Qal-Ptc
This verb means to erase or wipe something away. In Psalm 51:1, David asks God to blot out his sins. It can also mean to reach out or touch something.
Definition: 1) to wipe, wipe out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to wipe 1a2) to blot out, obliterate 1a3) to blot out, exterminate 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be wiped out 1b2) to be blotted out 1b3) to be exterminated 1c) (Hiphil) to blot out (from memory)
Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: abolish, blot out, destroy, full of marrow, put out, reach unto, [idiom] utterly, wipe (away, out). See also: Genesis 6:7; Nehemiah 13:14; Psalms 9:6.
אֶמְחֶה֙
mâchâh
H4229
"to wipe"
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
This verb means to erase or wipe something away. In Psalm 51:1, David asks God to blot out his sins. It can also mean to reach out or touch something.
Definition: 1) to wipe, wipe out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to wipe 1a2) to blot out, obliterate 1a3) to blot out, exterminate 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be wiped out 1b2) to be blotted out 1b3) to be exterminated 1c) (Hiphil) to blot out (from memory)
Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: abolish, blot out, destroy, full of marrow, put out, reach unto, [idiom] utterly, wipe (away, out). See also: Genesis 6:7; Nehemiah 13:14; Psalms 9:6.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
זֵ֣כֶר
zêker
H2143
"memorial"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means a memorial or remembrance, often referring to a reminder of something important, like a scent or a memory. It appears in the Bible to describe memorials to God. The word is used to recall significant events or people.
Definition: 1) memorial, remembrance 1a) remembrance, memory 1b) memorial
Usage: Occurs in 23 OT verses. KJV: memorial, memory, remembrance, scent. See also: Exodus 3:15; Psalms 102:13; Psalms 6:6.
עֲמָלֵ֔ק
ʻĂmâlêq
H6002
"Amalek"
N-proper
Amalek was a descendant of Esau and the ancestor of a tribe in southern Canaan. The Amalekites were enemies of the Israelites, as seen in the story of Exodus and 1 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the Edomites living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.36.12; son of: Eliphaz (H0464) and Timna (H8555); brother of: Teman (H8487), Omar (H0201), Zepho (H6825), Gatam (H1609), Kenaz (H7073) and Korah (H7141H) § Amalek = "dweller in a valley" 1) son of Eliphaz by his concubine Timnah, grandson of Esau, and progenitor of a tribe of people in southern Canaan 2) descendants of Amalek
Usage: Occurs in 37 OT verses. KJV: Amalek. See also: Genesis 36:12; Judges 10:12; Psalms 83:8.
מִ/תַּ֖חַת
tachath
H8478
"underneath"
Prep | Prep
This Hebrew word means underneath or below, often used to describe physical locations or positions. It appears in various books, including Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to indicate something is under or beneath something else. The word has several related meanings.
Definition: : under/below 1) the under part, beneath, instead of, as, for, for the sake of, flat, unto, where, whereas n m 1a) the under part adv accus 1b) beneath prep 1c) under, beneath 1c1) at the foot of (idiom) 1c2) sweetness, subjection, woman, being burdened or oppressed (fig) 1c3) of subjection or conquest 1d) what is under one, the place in which one stands 1d1) in one's place, the place in which one stands (idiom with reflexive pronoun) 1d2) in place of, instead of (in transferred sense) 1d3) in place of, in exchange or return for (of things mutually interchanged) conj 1e) instead of, instead of that 1f) in return for that, because that in compounds 1g) in, under, into the place of (after verbs of motion) 1h) from under, from beneath, from under the hand of, from his place, under, beneath
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: as, beneath, [idiom] flat, in(-stead), (same) place (where...is), room, for...sake, stead of, under, [idiom] unto, [idiom] when...was mine, whereas, (where-) fore, with. See also: Genesis 1:7; Deuteronomy 7:24; 1 Kings 20:42.
הַ/שָּׁמָֽיִם
shâmayim
H8064
"heaven"
Art | N-mp
The Hebrew word for heaven or sky, it refers to the visible universe and the abode of God. It is often used in the Bible to describe the dwelling place of celestial bodies.
Definition: 1) heaven, heavens, sky 1a) visible heavens, sky 1a1) as abode of the stars 1a2) as the visible universe, the sky, atmosphere, etc 1b) Heaven (as the abode of God) Aramaic equivalent: sha.ma.yin (שָׁמַ֫יִן "heaven" H8065)
Usage: Occurs in 395 OT verses. KJV: air, [idiom] astrologer, heaven(-s). See also: Genesis 1:1; 1 Samuel 2:10; Job 28:21.
Study Notes — Exodus 17:14
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Exodus 17:14 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Exodus 17:14
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Exodus 17:14
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
- Trapp's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
- Ellicott's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
- Cambridge Bible on Exodus 17:14
- Barnes' Notes on Exodus 17:14
- Whedon's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
- Sermons on Exodus 17:14
Context — The Defeat of the Amalekites
12When Moses’ hands grew heavy, they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. Then Aaron and Hur held his hands up, one on each side, so that his hands remained steady until the sun went down.
13So Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his army with the sword.
14Then the LORD said to Moses, “Write this on a scroll as a reminder and recite it to Joshua, because I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.”
15And Moses built an altar and named it The LORD Is My Banner. 16“Indeed,” he said, “a hand was lifted up toward the throne of the LORD. The LORD will war against Amalek from generation to generation.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exodus 34:27 | The LORD also said to Moses, “Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.” |
| 2 | Numbers 24:20 | Then Balaam saw Amalek and lifted up an oracle, saying: “Amalek was first among the nations, but his end is destruction.” |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 30:1 | On the third day David and his men arrived in Ziklag, and the Amalekites had raided the Negev, attacked Ziklag, and burned it down. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 30:17 | And David struck them down from twilight until the evening of the next day. Not a man escaped, except four hundred young men who fled, riding off on camels. |
| 5 | Numbers 33:2 | At the LORD’s command, Moses recorded the stages of their journey. These are the stages listed by their starting points: |
| 6 | 2 Samuel 8:12 | from Edom and Moab, from the Ammonites and Philistines and Amalekites, and from the spoil of Hadadezer son of Rehob, king of Zobah. |
| 7 | Deuteronomy 25:17–19 | Remember what the Amalekites did to you along your way from Egypt, how they met you on your journey when you were tired and weary, and they attacked all your stragglers; they had no fear of God. When the LORD your God gives you rest from the enemies around you in the land that He is giving you to possess as an inheritance, you are to blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven. Do not forget! |
| 8 | Exodus 13:9 | It shall be a sign for you on your hand and a reminder on your forehead that the Law of the LORD is to be on your lips. For with a mighty hand the LORD brought you out of Egypt. |
| 9 | Exodus 24:4 | And Moses wrote down all the words of the LORD. Early the next morning he got up and built an altar at the base of the mountain, along with twelve pillars for the twelve tribes of Israel. |
| 10 | Exodus 12:14 | And this day will be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD, as a permanent statute for the generations to come. |
Exodus 17:14 Summary
In Exodus 17:14, God tells Moses to write down the story of how He helped the Israelites defeat the Amalekites, so that they would remember His power and faithfulness. God also promises to completely destroy the Amalekites, who were a wicked and aggressive people, as seen in Exodus 17:8-13. This verse reminds us that God is a powerful and just God, who fights for His people and protects them from harm, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:4. It also encourages us to trust in God's power and faithfulness, and to remember and celebrate His victories in our lives, as instructed in Psalm 9:1.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for God to 'blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven' in Exodus 17:14?
This phrase means that God will completely destroy and forget the Amalekites, removing their existence from the record of humanity, as seen in Deuteronomy 25:19, where God commands the Israelites to 'blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven'.
Why did God instruct Moses to write this event on a scroll and recite it to Joshua?
God wanted to ensure that the Israelites, and specifically Joshua, would remember this significant victory and the role God played in it, as a reminder of His power and faithfulness, similar to the instruction in Deuteronomy 6:20-25 to remember God's works and tell them to future generations.
Is the command to 'blot out the memory of Amalek' a call to violence or revenge?
No, this command is a declaration of God's judgment on the Amalekites for their wickedness and aggression towards the Israelites, as seen in Exodus 17:8-13, and is not a call for personal revenge, but rather a demonstration of God's justice and protection of His people, as seen in Romans 12:19.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of God's war against evil?
This verse is part of a larger narrative of God's conflict with evil forces, as seen in Ephesians 6:12, where we are told that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil, and God's ultimate victory over them, as promised in Revelation 20:10-15.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can, like Moses, remember and commemorate God's victories in my life, and share them with others?
- How can I, like Joshua, trust in God's power and faithfulness in the face of challenges and enemies, as seen in Joshua 1:9?
- What are some 'Amalekites' in my own life that God is calling me to trust Him to defeat, and how can I surrender them to Him, as seen in 1 Samuel 15:3?
- In what ways can I participate in God's war against evil, as seen in Exodus 17:14, and trust in His ultimate victory, as promised in Revelation 20:10-15?
- How can I, like the Israelites, remember God's works and tell them to future generations, as instructed in Psalm 78:4?
Gill's Exposition on Exodus 17:14
And the Lord said unto Moses,.... After the battle was over, and the Israelites had got the victory: write this for a memorial in a book: not in loose papers, but in a book, that it might continue;
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Exodus 17:14
And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
In a book; even in this book, which Moses was to write by God’ s inspiration and appointment. See ,22. In the ears of Joshua, thy successor, and the captain of my people, that he and all succeeding governors may watch all occasions to execute this command. I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek, i.e. I will utterly destroy them; for a person or people dead or destroyed are soon forgotten, , and the grave is called the land of forgetfulness, . Or thus, Though they are now a numerous and flourishing people, and in great repute, I will make them few and inglorious, for such are little minded or remembered; for this is not to be understood absolutely of a speedy and utter extinction of them, for he supposeth their being from generation to generation, , but comparatively. From under heaven; from the face of the whole earth.
Trapp's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
Exodus 17:14 And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this [for] a memorial in a book, and rehearse [it] in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.Ver. 14. In a book.] Or, In the book that thou art now in writing, viz., the Pentateuch, the most ancient book that is extant. I will utterly put out, &c,] The portion of wicked men is to be "forgotten in the city where they had so done." Their memory dies with them: or, if it be preserved, it stinks in keeping, and remains as a curse and perpetual disgrace.
Ellicott's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
(14) Write this for a memorial in a book.—Heb., in the book. That “book” existed long prior to Moses is implied in his quotation of them (Genesis 5:1; Numbers 21:14), and has of late years been abundantly proved by the discoveries made of Egyptian papyruses dating from a time long anterior to the Jewish lawgiver. The expression used in the present place, if it may be trusted,[59] “the book,” is remarkable, and seems to imply that a book already existed at the date of the engagement, in which God’s dealings with His people were entered from time to time. (See Introduction to Speaker’s Commentary, vol. i., p. 1.) This book was probably the germ of the existing Pentateuch, which was composed in many portions, and at intervals, as occasion arose. [59] Bĕ ?sêpher, “in a book,” and bassêpher. “in the book, differ only in the pointing, which, resting solely on tradition cannot be entirely depended on. The LXX. omit the article. I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek.—The extermination of Amalek, here prophesied, was afterwards laid as a positive command upon the Israelites (Deuteronomy 25:19), and was accomplished in part by Saul and David (1 Samuel 14:48; 1 Samuel 15:7; 1 Samuel 27:8; 1 Samuel 30:17; 2 Samuel 8:12), but finally and completely in the reign of Hezekiah (1 Chronicles 4:43). Amalek’s sin was, that after all the signs and wonders which had shown the Israelites to be God’s peculiar people, he braved God’s displeasure by attacking them (Deuteronomy 25:18). To this audacity and contempt of Jehovah’s power he added a cruel pitilessness, when he fell upon the rear of an almost unarmed host, at a time when they were “faint and weary.”
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
Verse 14. Write this for a memorial in a book] This is the first mention of writing on record: what it signified, or how it was done, we cannot tell. But it is evident that either this passage is introduced here instead of De 25:17, by way of anticipation, or that by the words כתב שפר kethob and sepher was intended only a monumental declaration of the defeat of Amalek by Joshua, by some action or symbolical representation; for it is immediately subjoined, "And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi." See Dr. A. Bayley, and see the note on chap. xxx. It is very likely that the first regular alphabetical writing in the world was that written by the finger of God himself on the two tables of stone. What is said here was probably by way of anticipation, or means some other method of registering events than by alphabetical characters, if we allow that God gave the first specimen of regular writing on the tables of stone, which did not take place till some time after this. Rehearse it in the ears of Joshua] Thus showing that Joshua was to succeed Moses, and that this charge should be given to every succeeding governor. I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek] This threatening was accomplished by SAUL, 1 Samuel 15:3, c. four hundred and twelve years after. Judgment is God's strange work; but it must take place when the sins which incensed it are neither repented of nor forsaken.
This people, by their continued transgressions, proved themselves totally unworthy of a political existence; and therefore said God to Saul, Go, and utterly destroy the SINNERS the Amalekites; 1 Samuel 15:18. So their continuance in sin was the cause of their final destruction.
Cambridge Bible on Exodus 17:14
8–16. The victory over the Amalekites. The Amalekites were what we should call a nomad Bedawi tribe, who are spoken of as having their home in the desert S. of Palestine: in the ‘Negeb,’ or ‘South,’ of Judah, Numbers 13:29; Numbers 14:25; Numbers 14:43; Numbers 14:45, about Kadesh Genesis 14:7, and in the same neighbourhood in 1 Samuel 15:7; 1 Samuel 27:8; 1 Samuel 30:1 : they corresponded in fact very much to the Azâzimeh tribe, who now inhabit a large part of the elevated limestone plateau, called the Tih, between the mountains of the Sinaitic Peninsula and the Mediterranean Sea. Their appearance here in the Sinaitic Peninsula is not a substantial difficulty: as Di. remarks, ‘a branch of them may have been settled in or about the oasis in W. Feiran (Leps., Ebers); or they may in May or June have led their flocks up into the cooler and fresher pastures in the mountains (Kn. Ke.); or they may even have made a raid against Israel from their homes on the Tih (Bunsen)’: whichever supposition is the correct one, ‘it was natural enough that the nomads, who lived on the scanty products of this region, should do their utmost to expel the intruders. That the narrative, in spite of its legendary features, has a historical foundation, cannot be doubted’ (Nöldeke, EB. i. 128).
Barnes' Notes on Exodus 17:14
In a book - in the book, i. e. the book which contained the history of God’s dealings with His people.
Whedon's Commentary on Exodus 17:14
14. Write — This is the first time that this word occurs in the Bible.
Sermons on Exodus 17:14
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Are the Rabbis Right? by Michael L. Brown | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of God's decrees and how they can be overruled by the majority. He shares a story from the Talmud about a woman who mistakenly acc |
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The Bible: Inspired of God by Lewis Sperry Chafer | Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the divine nature of the Bible as God's message to humanity, highlighting the unique inspiration of the Scriptures where human authors were directed |
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Day 101, 2 Corinthians 3 by David Servant | David Servant preaches on Paul's defense against false teachers in Corinth, highlighting how Paul did not need self-commendation or letters of reference, as the transformed lives o |
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All Satan's Apples Have Worms by John R. Rice | John R. Rice preaches about the consequences of following Satan's deceitful promises, using the story of the prodigal son to illustrate how all of the Devil's apples have worms. He |
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Be Strong in the Lord by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher explains the concept of Jesus making a public spectacle of the devil. He compares it to how the Romans would publicly shame and display defeated rebels |
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God's People by Frank Knox | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of teaching the word of God to children. He encourages teachers to love, pray, and live with their students, guiding them towa |
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Kingdom in Crisis - Part 1 by Dean Taylor | In this teaching session, the speaker addresses the current political climate and the deep influence it has on society. He emphasizes the need for Christians to respond to this cri |