Then Amalek came and fought with Israel — The Amalekites were the posterity of Esau, who hated Jacob because of the birth — right and blessing. They did not boldly front them as a generous enemy, but without any provocation given, basely fell upon their rear, and smote them that were faint and feeble.
Related Commentaries of Exodus 17:8
Exodus 17:8
8 Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.