The Mixed Multitude - Amalekites

Gaon of Vilna

Baal Shem Tov

In the book Even Shlomo (Chapter 11) from the Gaon of Vilna, as a comment to statements in the Zohar regarding the Mixed Multitude, the Gaon says the following:

"The final cleansing will take place at the separating out of the Mixed Multitude, who are like the chaff that is attached to the wheat. They are very attached to the Jewish People, and Jews learn from their deeds. It is impossible to separate from them other than through the difficulties of the Exile.

They are called NEGA RAH - bad affliction. NEFILIM, GIBORIM, AMALEKIM, REFAIM. Nefilim ( the name of the giants in Genesis) pursue lust. Giborim (great heroes) are famous people who build synagogues  and contribute adornments to the Sefer Torahs to become famous. Amalekim are the heads of Israel, weaponry, and steal from the poor of Israel. Refaim are those who refuse to do charity with those who learn Torah. The Anakim insult the Sages.

ALL THE BRAZEN ONES AND EVIL DOERS IN THE GENERATION ARE REINCARNATIONS OF THE MIXED MULTITUDE AND THE SONS OF CAIN. THEY ARE CALLED EREV RAV BECAUSE THE ARE THE HEADS OF THE PEOPLE IN EXILE...."

"It is brought down from the Baal Shem Tov and his disciples that before the coming of Mashiach most of the leaders and the heads of the Community are from the Mixed Multitude.  As is brought in the Zohar in the portion of Bereshis (p. 113). And most of the leaders of the generation are the Mixed Multitude. Thus, every Jew should fear for himself so that he doesn't become part of them"