For many, the commandment to destroy the nation of Amalek presents a most difficult challenge. While it is recognized that, at times, we must respond to evil with force, the idea that there is an actual prima facie mitzvah of violence begs explanation. A popular retort is that Amalek is "inherently evil" and so a pre-emptive strike is justified and even necessary -- but this only draws further questions: What exactly is it to be inherently evil? Does it affect having free choice?