it is here where we meet the arch-enemy of the Israelites - Amalek. They are the cousins of the Israelites - grandchildren of our twin brother Esav. And they present Israel early on with a fundamental ideological issue. It is an issue that runs throughout Jewish history and is as pertinent today as it ever was. Indeed, it is an issue we must come to terms with as a people if we are ever to be at peace.