Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
AM'ALEKITES. 1 Sam 15:6. A powerful people of uncertain origin, first mentioned in connection with the invasion of Chedorlaomer. Gen 14:7. They are called, Num 24:20, the first of all the nations. They were signally defeated in a contest with the children of Israel at Rephidim, and for opposing the progress of Israel they became objects of God's judgments. They were afterward defeated and repulsed by Gideon, Jud 7:22, and by Saul, 1 Sam 15, and
by David, 1 Sam 30, till at last the word of the Lord was fulfilled to the very letter, and their name was blotted from the earth. 1 Sam 30:17 and 1 Chr 4:43.