Malachi

Malachi front

Introduction to Malachi

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Malachi

1:1 Title 1:2–5 Yahweh will punish the wicked: Edom 1:6–14 Judeans not bringing acceptable sacrifices 2:1–9 Priests must teach and apply the law faithfully 2:10–16 Yahweh is concerned for justice: no divorce 2:17–3:5 Yahweh is concerned for justice and will punish evildoers 3:6–12 Judeans not bringing proper tithes 3:13–15 Yahweh will punish the wicked, despite what Judeans are saying 3:16–4:6 Yahweh will bless and protect those who fear him

The overall structure of the book follows a pattern called “chiasm,” which Hebrew writers considered to be particularly elegant in poetry and literature. There are six main parts to this structure. The chiasm pattern is ABCCBA. In terms of theme, the first and sixth parts are found in (1:2–5 and 3:13–15), the second and fifth parts match (1:6–14 and 3:6–12), and the third and fourth parts match (2:10–16 and 2:17–3:5). There is also an excursus, a special message to the priests (2:1–9), and an epilogue telling how the people responded to the message of the book and what Yahweh promised them (3:16–4:6).

What is the book of Malachi about?

The book of Malachi contains prophecies that address the Jews who had returned to Judah from exile in Babylon. At that time, the Jews were discouraged even though they had finished building a new temple. The wonderful things that previous prophets had promised for Judah had not yet happened. The Persian Empire still ruled over them. As a result, they no longer were concerned about the law or worshiping Yahweh. These prophecies rebuke the Judeans for not living as the law taught and for not bringing proper tithes and sacrifices. But the prophecies also assure the Judeans that Yahweh will ultimately do everything that he promised to do.

Who wrote the book of Malachi?

The description in the book title (1:1) could either be translated “the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of Malachi” or “the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of my messenger.” The last expression in that sentence also occurs in 3:1, where the context indicates that it should be translated as “my messenger.” However, the expression could well be the name of the man in the book title. That man would be the prophet who delivered these messages on behalf of Yahweh. However, we do not know anything else about this man—where he lived, what family he came from, etc. Translating the expression as a name is the most common interpretation, and that is the interpretation that the ULT and these notes follow. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to follow the interpretation that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to follow the same interpretation as the ULT.

How should the title of this book be translated?

This book traditionally has been titled “Malachi” or “The Book of Malachi.” Translators may decide to call it something like “The Sayings of Malachi” or “The Messages that Malachi Brought.”

Part 2: Religious and Cultural Concepts

The “day of Yahweh”

The book of Malachi speaks about the “day of Yahweh” in 3:2–5 and 3:17–4:6. It also calls it “the day that is coming” and “the day of his coming,” and Yahweh calls it “the day that I am preparing.” All of these are references to the time when Yahweh will come and judge people. He would remove those who have wickedly sinned and bless those who have trusted in him. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh)

Part 3: Translation Issues

“But you say”

In each of the six thematic sections of the book, the prophet makes a statement that challenges the people and gets their attention. Its meaning is not immediately clear. The prophet then anticipates how the people will respond. He introduces their likely response with the phrase “But you say” (1:2, 1:6, 1:7, 1:13, 2:14, 2:17, 3:7, 3:8, 3:13). After saying how he expects they would respond, he then explains what his provocative statement meant. This was a common practice of Jewish public speakers in this time period (and also in New Testament times). The phrase “But you say” occurs throughout the book as Malachi anticipates and answers objections. It would be helpful to translate the phrase consistently so that your readers can appreciate the method he is using to challenge the Judeans.

Yahweh of Armies

This is an important title of God that is used more than 20 times throughout the book of Malachi. It reminds the listeners of the great power that Yahweh has to judge and punish all nations. Be sure to translate it consistently throughout the book so that your readers can appreciate the emphasis that Malachi places on it. (See: Yahweh of hosts, God of hosts, host of heaven, host of the heavens, Lord of hosts)

Malachi 1

Malachi 1 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1:1 Title

1:2–5 Yahweh will punish the wicked: Edom

1:6–14 Judeans not bringing acceptable sacrifices

Malachi 1:1

The burden of the word of Yahweh

Quote: מַשָּׂ֥א דְבַר־יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The editor of the book is speaking as if the word of Yahweh were a burden that Malachi was carrying. This is likely a reference to the serious nature of what Yahweh told Malachi to say. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [The serious word from Yahweh]

the word of Yahweh

Quote: דְבַר־יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The editor is using the word word by association to mean what Yahweh said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what Yahweh said]

to Israel

Quote: אֶל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Malachi is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of Israel. Alternate translation: [to the Israelites]

by the hand of

Quote: בְּ⁠יַ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Malachi, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of bringing Yahweh’s message to the Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: [through]

Malachi

Quote: מַלְאָכִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

These notes follow the interpretation that the word Malachi is the name of a man. See the further discussion in the General Introduction to Malachi.

Malachi 1:2

I have loved you,” says Yahweh

Quote: אָהַ֤בְתִּי אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

In your translation, use a natural way of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh says, ‘I have loved you’]

you

Quote: אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The word you is plural here because Yahweh is addressing the Israelites as a group, so use the plural form in your translation if your language marks that distinction. The words “you,” “your,” and “yourselves” are usually plural in this book when they refer to the Israelites. These notes will indicate any exceptions. The word “you” is always singular when it refers to Yahweh.

But you say

Quote: וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Malachi is probably not quoting an actual response from the Judeans. Rather, he is anticipating an objection, stating it, and then answering it. See the further discussion in the General Introduction to Malachi. Alternate translation: [Now you may object]

Was} not Esau a brother to Jacob?” the declaration of Yahweh. “Yet I loved Jacob

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־אָ֨ח עֵשָׂ֤ו לְ⁠יַֽעֲקֹב֙ נְאֻם־יְהוָ֔ה וָ⁠אֹהַ֖ב אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases so that the speaker, Yahweh, is identified before we read the words which he speaks. Alternate translation: [Yahweh declares, “Was not Esau a brother to Jacob? Yet I loved Jacob”]

Was} not Esau a brother to Jacob

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־אָ֨ח עֵשָׂ֤ו לְ⁠יַֽעֲקֹב֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Now Esau was Jacob’s brother]

Was} not Esau a brother to Jacob

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־אָ֨ח עֵשָׂ֤ו לְ⁠יַֽעֲקֹב֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the names Esau and Jacob by association to mean their descendants. Alternate translation: [Are the Edomites not a related people group to you Israelites?] or [Now the Edomites are a related people group to you Israelites]

the declaration of Yahweh

Quote: נְאֻם־יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that this is a direct quotation from Yahweh. In your translation, use a natural way of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh declares]

Yet I loved Jacob

Quote: וָ⁠אֹהַ֖ב אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Yahweh is referring to the Israelites as a group by using the name of their ancestor, Jacob. Alternate translation: [Yet I loved you Israelites]

Malachi 1:2-3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: וָ⁠אֹהַ֖ב אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹֽב׃ וְ⁠אֶת־עֵשָׂ֖ו שָׂנֵ֑אתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

Here the author uses a poetic device called a chiasm, which Hebrew writers often used in poetry and literature. The outer phrases I loved and I hated parallel each other and the inner words, Jacob and Esau parallel each other. So the pattern is ABBA. If it is possible in your language you should try to retain this order.

Malachi 1:3

but Esau I hated

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־עֵשָׂ֖ו שָׂנֵ֑אתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated as hated does not always indicate a strong antipathy or loathing. In a comparison such as this one, it can mean “loved less” or “favored less.” If it would help your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [but I have not favored Esau or his descendants, the Edomites]

a desolation

Quote: שְׁמָמָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of desolation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [a desolate place]

for the jackals of

Quote: לְ⁠תַנּ֥וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A jackal is a wild dog that lives in the desert. If your readers would not be familiar with what a jackal is, in your translation you could use the name of a similar animal that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [desert scavengers]

Malachi 1:4

Though Edom says

Quote: כִּֽי־תֹאמַ֨ר אֱד֜וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word Edom is another name for “Esau.” Yahweh uses the word Edom by association to mean Esau’s descendants. If it would be helpful to your readers you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: [Though the Edomites say]

We are beaten down

Quote: רֻשַּׁ֗שְׁנוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Our enemies have beaten us down]

And they will call them ‘the territory of wickedness’ and ‘the people whom Yahweh abhors forever

Quote: וְ⁠קָרְא֤וּ לָ⁠הֶם֙ גְּב֣וּל רִשְׁעָ֔ה וְ⁠הָ⁠עָ֛ם אֲשֶׁר־זָעַ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה עַד־עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there are not quotations within a quotation. Alternate translation: [And people will say that they are a territory where wicked people live and that they are a people whom Yahweh abhors forever]

And they will call them

Quote: וְ⁠קָרְא֤וּ לָ⁠הֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they is an indefinite pronoun that does not have a specific referent in the immediate context. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with a different expression that does not use an indefinite pronoun, as modeled by the UST.

the territory of wickedness

Quote: גְּב֣וּל רִשְׁעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of wickedness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the wicked territory] or [the territory where wicked people live]

Malachi 1:5

And your eyes will see, and you yourselves will say, ‘Great is Yahweh beyond the border of Israel

Quote: וְ⁠עֵינֵי⁠כֶ֖ם תִּרְאֶ֑ינָה וְ⁠אַתֶּ֤ם תֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ יִגְדַּ֣ל יְהוָ֔ה מֵ⁠עַ֖ל לִ⁠גְב֥וּל יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

The words in this verse could: (1) be a continuation of Yahweh’s words that began in the previous verse. If you treat this as a quotation from Yahweh, it may be more natural in your language not to have a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [And your eyes will see, and you yourselves will say that Yahweh is great beyond the border of Israel] (2) the words of Malachi. If you choose this option, you will need to add closing quotes at the end of the previous verse or whatever means your language uses to end a quotation, and use whatever punctuation your language requires to indicate that Malachi is speaking. Alternate translation: [And your eyes will see, and you yourselves will say, “Great is Yahweh beyond the border of Israel”]

And your eyes will see

Quote: וְ⁠עֵינֵי⁠כֶ֖ם תִּרְאֶ֑ינָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of the Judeans, their eyes, to represent all of them in the act of seeing. The emphasis is on their eyewitness experience. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you will see for yourselves]

And your eyes will see, and you yourselves will say, ‘Great is Yahweh beyond the border of Israel

Quote: וְ⁠עֵינֵי⁠כֶ֖ם תִּרְאֶ֑ינָה וְ⁠אַתֶּ֤ם תֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ יִגְדַּ֣ל יְהוָ֔ה מֵ⁠עַ֖ל לִ⁠גְב֥וּל יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

It may be more natural in your language to have Yahweh speak of himself in the first person rather than in the third person. Alternate translation: [And your eyes will see, and you yourselves will say that I am great beyond the border of Israel!]

Malachi 1:6

So if I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־אָ֣ב אָ֣נִי אַיֵּ֣ה כְבוֹדִ֡⁠י וְ⁠אִם־אֲדוֹנִ֣ים אָנִי֩ אַיֵּ֨ה מוֹרָאִ֜⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Since I am a father, you should honor me. And since I am a master, you should fear me]

my name. … your name

Quote: שְׁמִ֔⁠י & אֶת־שְׁמֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word name by association to mean his reputation and authority. Alternate translation: [my reputation … your reputation] or [my authority … your authority]

Malachi 1:7

defiled food

Quote: לֶ֣חֶם מְגֹאָ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [food that people have made unfit for sacrifice]

But you say, ‘In what have we defiled you?’ In your saying, ‘The table of Yahweh, it is despised

Quote: וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם בַּ⁠מֶּ֣ה גֵֽאַלְנ֑וּ⁠ךָ בֶּ⁠אֱמָרְ⁠כֶ֕ם שֻׁלְחַ֥ן יְהוָ֖ה נִבְזֶ֥ה הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there are not quotations within a quotation. Alternate translation: [But you ask how you have defiled me. You defile me by saying that you can despise the table of Yahweh]

The table of Yahweh, it is despised

Quote: שֻׁלְחַ֥ן יְהוָ֖ה נִבְזֶ֥ה הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [One may despise the table of Yahweh]

The table of Yahweh

Quote: שֻׁלְחַ֥ן יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if the altar on which the priests offered sacrifices to him were a table at which he ate food. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [The altar of Yahweh]

Malachi 1:8

And when you present the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you present the lame and the sick, is it not evil

Quote: וְ⁠כִֽי־תַגִּשׁ֨וּ⁠ן עִוֵּ֤ר לִ⁠זְבֹּ֨חַ֙ אֵ֣ין רָ֔ע וְ⁠כִ֥י תַגִּ֛ישׁוּ פִּסֵּ֥חַ וְ⁠חֹלֶ֖ה אֵ֣ין רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [When you present blind animals for sacrifice, that is evil! And when you present lame and sick animals, that is also evil!]

the blind … the lame and the sick

Quote: עִוֵּ֤ר & פִּסֵּ֥חַ וְ⁠חֹלֶ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Yahweh is not referring to specific blind, lame, or sick animals. He means animals with these conditions in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [blind animals … lame and sick animals]

Present it

Quote: הַקְרִיבֵ֨⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun it refers to the blind, lame, and sick animals. It may be more natural in your language to use a plural expression. Alternate translation: [Present these animals]

to your governor. Will he accept you … your face

Quote: לְ⁠פֶחָתֶ֗⁠ךָ הֲ⁠יִּרְצְ⁠ךָ֙ & פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The words you and your are singular here because Yahweh is addressing the priests as a collective group. This suits the context, since that is how they were ruled by their governor. It may be natural for you to use the singular form in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

Will he accept you or lift up your face

Quote: הֲ⁠יִּרְצְ⁠ךָ֙ א֚וֹ הֲ⁠יִשָּׂ֣א פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [He certainly will not accept you or lift up your face!]

Will he accept you or lift up your face

Quote: הֲ⁠יִּרְצְ⁠ךָ֙ א֚וֹ הֲ⁠יִשָּׂ֣א פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms accept you and lift up your face mean similar things. Yahweh is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [He certainly will not show you any favor at all!]

or lift up your face

Quote: א֚וֹ הֲ⁠יִשָּׂ֣א פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean “show favor.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [or show you favor]

Malachi 1:9

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word the ULT translated as And now is an expression that was used in messages of this time to introduce important points. If your language has a comparable expression that it uses for this same purpose, you can use it in your translation.

the face of God, that he may be gracious to us

Quote: פְנֵי־אֵ֖ל וִֽ⁠יחָנֵ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Malachi attributes this quotation to Yahweh, but it is something that Yahweh told him to say to the priests. So you could translate it with Malachi as the speaker. However, if you translate it with Yahweh as the speaker, he would be speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be more natural in your language, you could translate it in the first person. Alternate translation: [my face, that I may be gracious to you]

the face of God

Quote: פְנֵי־אֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of himself, his face, to mean all of him in the act of looking with favor on someone who was praying to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [God]

the face of God

Quote: פְנֵי־אֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Malachi is probably using the term God here to contrast with the mention of “the governor” in the previous verse. The implication is that if people would not offer inferior gifts to a human being, they should certainly not offer them to God. So here it would be appropriate to use your language’s term for the true God who created the world rather than using the name Yahweh.

that he may be gracious to us

Quote: וִֽ⁠יחָנֵ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Malachi is using the pronoun us to refer to himself and his listeners, so use the inclusive form of that word if your language marks that distinction. (If you are treating this as a direct quotation from Yahweh, you may use the plural form of “you.”)

This has been from your hand

Quote: מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶם֙ הָ֣יְתָה זֹּ֔את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun This refers to the unacceptable sacrifices. It may be helpful to clarify the referent for your readers. Alternate translation: [These unacceptable sacrifices have been from your hand]

from your hand

Quote: מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Malachi is using one part of the priests‘ bodies, the hand, to mean all of themselves in the act of offering sacrifices. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from you]

from your hand

Quote: מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Malachi is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of hand. Alternate translation: [from your hands]

Will he lift up your faces

Quote: הֲ⁠יִשָּׂ֤א מִ⁠כֶּם֙ פָּנִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:8.

Will he lift up your faces

Quote: הֲ⁠יִשָּׂ֤א מִ⁠כֶּם֙ פָּנִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [He certainly will not lift your faces!] or [He will certainly not show you favor!]

Malachi 1:10

Who even among you will shut the doors, that you might not kindle {fire} on my altar in vain

Quote: מִ֤י גַם־בָּ⁠כֶם֙ וְ⁠יִסְגֹּ֣ר דְּלָתַ֔יִם וְ⁠לֹֽא־תָאִ֥ירוּ מִזְבְּחִ֖⁠י חִנָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [I wish one of you would shut the temple doors, so that you would not kindle useless fires on my altar!]

the doors

Quote: דְּלָתַ֔יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that his listeners will know that by the doors he means the doors of the temple. You could say that explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the doors of the temple]

an offering from your hand

Quote: אֶרְצֶ֥ה מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Yahweh is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of hand. Alternate translation: [offerings from your hands]

from your hand

Quote: מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of the priests‘ bodies, the hand, to mean all of themselves in the act of offering sacrifices. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that you give]

Malachi 1:11

from the rising of the sun and unto its setting

Quote: מִ⁠מִּזְרַח־שֶׁ֜מֶשׁ וְ⁠עַד־מְבוֹא֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the rising and setting of the sun by association to mean the east and the west. Alternate translation: [from the east to the west]

from the rising of the sun and unto its setting

Quote: מִ⁠מִּזְרַח־שֶׁ֜מֶשׁ וְ⁠עַד־מְבוֹא֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Yahweh is speaking of two extremes in order to include them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [everywhere in the world]

my name {will be} great … my name {will be} great

Quote: גָּד֤וֹל שְׁמִ⁠י֙ & גָד֤וֹל שְׁמִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word name by association to mean his reputation. See how you translated the same expression in 1:6. Alternate translation: [my reputation will be great … my reputation will be great]

my name {will be} great

Quote: גָּד֤וֹל שְׁמִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The Hebrew text leaves out a verb in this phrase. Many languages require a verb to make this phrase complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the verb from the context. The verb that needs to be supplied could be: (1) future tense, “will be.” (2) present tense, “is.” Alternate translation: [my name is great]

to my name

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁמִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of himself, his name, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to me]

Malachi 1:12

But you are profaning it

Quote: וְ⁠אַתֶּ֖ם מְחַלְּלִ֣ים אוֹת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronoun it refers to Yahweh’s name or reputation. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [But you are profaning my name] or [But you are making my reputation no more than ordinary]

But you are profaning it in your saying, ‘The table of the Lord, it {is} defiled, and its fruit, its food, is despised

Quote: וְ⁠אַתֶּ֖ם מְחַלְּלִ֣ים אוֹת֑⁠וֹ בֶּ⁠אֱמָרְ⁠כֶ֗ם שֻׁלְחַ֤ן אֲדֹנָ⁠י֙ מְגֹאָ֣ל ה֔וּא וְ⁠נִיב֖⁠וֹ נִבְזֶ֥ה אָכְלֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If your language would not use a direct quotation inside of a direct quotation, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [But you are profaning it when you say that my table is defiled, and its fruit, its food, is despised]

The table of the Lord

Quote: שֻׁלְחַ֤ן אֲדֹנָ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same expression in 1:7. Alternate translation: [The altar of the Lord]

the Lord

Quote: אֲדֹנָ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

In the same phrase in 1:7, the name “Yahweh” is used. Here a title, the Lord, is used instead. It may be that in the earlier instance Yahweh is speaking of himself in the third person, while in this instance Yahweh is quoting what the priests would say. (In order not to misuse his name, Jews would use this title instead.) Some versions of the Bible use their representation of the divine name here, since that is what the priests meant. Other versions use the title Lord to reflect this Jewish practice and the original text of the book. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

it {is} defiled

Quote: מְגֹאָ֣ל ה֔וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [it is not holy] or [it is nothing special]

and its fruit

Quote: וְ⁠נִיב֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if the altar were a tree that produced fruit. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [what we get from it]

its food

Quote: אָכְלֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that his listeners will know that by its food he means the food allowance the priests receive from the altar. You could say that explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [our food allowance]

is despised

Quote: נִבְזֶ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [is contemptible]

Malachi 1:13

But you say, ‘Behold, what a weariness

Quote: וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּם֩ הִנֵּ֨ה מַ⁠תְּלָאָ֜ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If your language would not use a direct quotation inside of a direct quotation, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [But you say that it is a weariness]

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֨ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The priests are speaking as if they wanted their listeners to Behold or look at something. They are using this term to focus their listeners’ attention on what they are about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation.

what a weariness

Quote: מַ⁠תְּלָאָ֜ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

The priests are using a phrase that expresses a strong feeling of tiredness or boredom. There may be an equivalent word or phrase in your language that you can use in your translation to convey this same feeling. You could also state what the priests were feeling. Alternate translation: [what drudgery] or [we are tired of doing this]

And you puff at it

Quote: וְ⁠הִפַּחְתֶּ֣ם אוֹת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

In this culture, to puff at something, blowing a small breath at it, was a symbolic action that showed contempt. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of an action that has the same significance in your culture. You could also state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you sniff at it] or [And you show contempt for it]

the stolen and the lame and the sick

Quote: גָּז֗וּל וְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠פִּסֵּ֨חַ֙ וְ⁠אֶת־הַ֣⁠חוֹלֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Yahweh is not referring to specific stolen, lame, or sick animals. He means animals that have been stolen or are lame or sick in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [stolen animals, lame animals, and sick animals]

the stolen

Quote: גָּז֗וּל (1)

The word the ULT translates as the stolen could refer to: (1) animals that have been stolen. Alternate translation: [animals that are stolen] (2) animals that have been attacked and as a result are mutilated or torn. Alternate translation: [the torn] or [the injured]

the stolen

Quote: גָּז֗וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [animals that you have obtained by theft]

Should I accept this from your hand

Quote: הַ⁠אֶרְצֶ֥ה אוֹתָ֛⁠הּ מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [I will certainly not accept this from you!]

Malachi 1:14

But cursed {be} the deceiver if a male is in his flock and he vows {it}, but he sacrifices the blemished to the Lord

Quote: וְ⁠אָר֣וּר נוֹכֵ֗ל וְ⁠יֵ֤שׁ בְּ⁠עֶדְר⁠וֹ֙ זָכָ֔ר וְ⁠נֹדֵ֛ר וְ⁠זֹבֵ֥חַ מָשְׁחָ֖ת לַֽ⁠אדֹנָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Yahweh is describing one event before describing another event that would precede it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [But if someone has a male in his flock and he vows it, but he sacrifices the blemished to the Lord, then that deceiver will be cursed]

But cursed {be

Quote: וְ⁠אָר֣וּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [But I will curse]

if a male is in his flock

Quote: וְ⁠יֵ֤שׁ בְּ⁠עֶדְר⁠וֹ֙ זָכָ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that his listeners will know that by a male, he means a healthy, unblemished male animal. You could say that explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [if a healthy, unblemished male is in his flock]

the blemished

Quote: מָשְׁחָ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Yahweh is not referring to a specific blemished animal. He means blemished animals in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [blemished animals]

to the Lord. … says Yahweh of Armies

Quote: לַֽ⁠אדֹנָ֑⁠י & אָמַר֙ יְהוָ֣ה צְבָא֔וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these in the first person. Alternate translation: [to me … says, I, Yahweh of Armies]

and my name is feared among the nations

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמִ֖⁠י נוֹרָ֥א בַ⁠גּוֹיִֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of himself, his name, to mean all of him in the act of being feared. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and I am feared among the nations because of my reputation]

Malachi 2

Malachi 2 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

2:1–9 Priests must teach and apply the law faithfully

2:10–16 Yahweh is concerned for justice: no divorce

2:17–3:5 Yahweh is concerned for justice and will punish evildoers

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

“My covenant was with him, life and peace, and I gave them to him {for} fear” (2:5)

Here Yahweh seems to be alluding implicitly to what he said in Numbers 25:12–13, that he was making a covenant of peace establishing Phineas (the son of the first high priest, Aaron) and his descendants in the priesthood permanently. Yahweh did this because Phineas zealously opposed the worship of foreign gods. That is what Yahweh means here by “I gave them to him for fear.” He is saying, in other words, “because he worshiped me exclusively and devotedly.” Yahweh was punishing the Israelites for this idol-worship with a plague that was killing many of them, but he ended the plague because of what Phineas did. So this was a covenant of peace (Yahweh was no longer hostile to the Israelites). It was also a covenant of life (Yahweh was no longer punishing the Israelites with death). The word life may also reflect that this was a permanent covenant that would not end. The notes to 2:5 suggest ways to translate these statements.

Translation Issues

And did he not make one (2:15a)

Here are two views Bible scholars have regarding the correct interpretation of these words. (1) The word one refers to the close connection a husband and wife have. Alternate translation: [And did not God make you one with your wife?] (2) The word one refers to God. Alternate translation: [And did not the one God make you]

and a remnant of spirit {was} to him? (2:15b)

Here are two views, among many, that Bible scholars have regarding the correct interpretation of these words. (1) These words mean that a husband and wife are united in body and spirit. Alternate translation: [God made you to become united with your wife in body and spirit] (2) These words mean that the bodies and spirits of a husband and wife belong to God. Alternate translation: [and you and your wife belong to God]

“and one {who} covers over his garment with violence” (2:16)

Here are three views Bible scholars have regarding the correct interpretation of these words. (1) it means that husband and wife Malachi is speaking as if violence were a substance with which a person could cover a garment. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. The idea of complete covering conveys emphasis. Alternate translation: [and one who acts very violently] (2) The word violence refers to harsh actions that could include actions other than divorce. Alternate translation: [and one who acts violently] (3) The word violence refers to violent or cruel actions which a person conceals. Alternate translation: [and one who conceals their violence]

Malachi 2:1

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

See how you translated the same expression in 1:9.

Malachi 2:2

you will not listen

Quote: לֹ֣א תִשְׁמְע֡וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In contexts such as this, the word translated as listen has the specific sense of complying with what someone has said. Alternate translation: [you will not obey]

you will not set {it} upon the heart … you are not setting {this} upon the heart

Quote: לֹא֩ תָשִׂ֨ימוּ עַל־לֵ֜ב & אֵינְ⁠כֶ֖ם שָׂמִ֥ים עַל־לֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean to take something seriously or to pay attention to it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you will not take it seriously … you are not taking this seriously] or [you will not pay attention to it … you are not paying attention to this]

to give glory to my name

Quote: לָ⁠תֵ֧ת כָּב֣וֹד לִ⁠שְׁמִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea with a or in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [to glorify my name]

to my name

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁמִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of himself, his name, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to me]

then I will send a curse upon you

Quote: וְ⁠שִׁלַּחְתִּ֤י בָ⁠כֶם֙ אֶת־הַ⁠מְּאֵרָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if a curse were an object that he could send. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [then I will curse you]

and I will curse your blessings

Quote: וְ⁠אָרוֹתִ֖י אֶת־בִּרְכֽוֹתֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of blessings, you could express the same idea in another way. This term could: (1) refer to the blessings that the priests spoke to the Israelites. Alternate translation: [and I will make ineffective what you say to bless the Israelites] (2) have the sense of “gift,” the portion of the people’s tithes, atonement money, and sacrifices that the priests received. Alternate translation: [and I will reduce what the people bring, so that you will receive very few gifts]

I have cursed it

Quote: אָרוֹתִ֔י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Since the pronoun it refers back to blessings, it may be more natural in your language to use a plural form. Alternate translation: [I have cursed them]

Malachi 2:3

Behold me, rebuking

Quote: הִנְ⁠נִ֨י גֹעֵ֤ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Behold me is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean that they were about to do something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Now I am about to rebuke]

rebuking the seed {that is} to you

Quote: גֹעֵ֤ר לָ⁠כֶם֙ אֶת־הַ⁠זֶּ֔רַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of seed as if it were a living thing that he could rebuke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [making your crops fail]

and I will spread dung on your faces

Quote: וְ⁠זֵרִ֤יתִי פֶ֨רֶשׁ֙ עַל־פְּנֵי⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if he would spread dung on the priests’ faces. This is a vivid way of saying that he will humiliate them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I will humiliate you terribly]

the dung of your festivals

Quote: פֶּ֖רֶשׁ חַגֵּי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word dung by association to mean the entrails of the animals that were sacrificed during festivals. Alternate translation: [the entrails of the animals you sacrifice during festivals]

and one will take you away with it

Quote: וְ⁠נָשָׂ֥א אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם אֵלָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, one is an indefinite pronoun that does not have a specific referent in the immediate context. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with a different expression that does not use an indefinite pronoun. Alternate translation: [and you will be taken away with it]

Malachi 2:4

I have sent this commandment to you

Quote: שִׁלַּ֣חְתִּי אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֔ם אֵ֖ת הַ⁠מִּצְוָ֣ה הַ⁠זֹּ֑את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if his commandment were an object that he could have sent. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I have given you this commandment]

for my covenant to be with Levi

Quote: לִֽ⁠הְי֤וֹת בְּרִיתִ⁠י֙ אֶת־לֵוִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh means implicitly that he has given this commandment so that his covenant with Levi will continue. He says in 3:3 that he will “purify the sons of Levi” so that they will once again perform their duties “in righteousness.” You could indicate the meaning here explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [so that my covenant with Levi will continue]

Levi

Quote: לֵוִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the name Levi by association to mean the priests who descended from that man and who served in the tabernacle and temple in subsequent generations. Alternate translation: [the descendants of Levi who became priests]

Malachi 2:5

My covenant was with him, life and peace

Quote: בְּרִיתִ֣⁠י ׀ הָיְתָ֣ה אִתּ֗⁠וֹ הַֽ⁠חַיִּים֙ וְ⁠הַ֨⁠שָּׁל֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of life and peace, you could express the same idea in another way. See the further discussion in the General Notes to this chapter. Alternate translation: [I made a covenant with him that made conditions peaceful and allowed people to live]

was with him, … to him {… and he feared me, … he was dismayed

Quote: הָיְתָ֣ה אִתּ֗⁠וֹ & ל֥⁠וֹ & וַ⁠יִּֽירָאֵ֑⁠נִי & נִחַ֥ת הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Yahweh is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [was with them … to them … and they feared me … they were dismayed]

and he feared me, and before my name he was dismayed

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽירָאֵ֑⁠נִי וּ⁠מִ⁠פְּנֵ֥י שְׁמִ֖⁠י נִחַ֥ת הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [and he had great reverence for me and my reputation]

my name

Quote: שְׁמִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of himself, his name, to mean all of himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [me]

Malachi 2:6

in his mouth, … on his lips. … he walked … he turned

Quote: בְּ⁠פִ֔י⁠הוּ & בִ⁠שְׂפָתָ֑י⁠ו & הָלַ֣ךְ & הֵשִׁ֥יב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Yahweh is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [in the mouths of the earlier priests … on their lips … they walked … they turned]

The instruction of truth was in his mouth

Quote: תּוֹרַ֤ת אֱמֶת֙ הָיְתָ֣ה בְּ⁠פִ֔י⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word mouth by association to mean what the priests said. Alternate translation: [He spoke the instruction of truth]

The instruction of truth was in his mouth

Quote: תּוֹרַ֤ת אֱמֶת֙ הָיְתָ֣ה בְּ⁠פִ֔י⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [He taught the people true things]

and iniquity was not found on his lips

Quote: וְ⁠עַוְלָ֖ה לֹא־נִמְצָ֣א בִ⁠שְׂפָתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The people of this culture commonly said that something was … found to mean that it existed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and there was no iniquity on his lips]

and iniquity was not found on his lips

Quote: וְ⁠עַוְלָ֖ה לֹא־נִמְצָ֣א בִ⁠שְׂפָתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word lips by association to mean what the priests said. Alternate translation: [and there was no iniquity in what he said] or [and there was no iniquity found in what he said]

and iniquity was not found on his lips

Quote: וְ⁠עַוְלָ֖ה לֹא־נִמְצָ֣א בִ⁠שְׂפָתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of iniquity, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [and he did not say things that led people to do what was wrong]

In peace and in uprightness

Quote: בְּ⁠שָׁל֤וֹם וּ⁠בְ⁠מִישׁוֹר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of peace and uprightness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Peacefully and righteously]

he walked with me

Quote: הָלַ֣ךְ אִתִּ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of how a person lives as if that were a path that he would walk along. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [he lived as I want people to live] or [he lived in fellowship with me]

and he turned many from iniquity

Quote: וְ⁠רַבִּ֖ים הֵשִׁ֥יב מֵ⁠עָוֺֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if iniquity were a place from which people could be turned away. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he influenced many to stop committing iniquity]

from iniquity

Quote: מֵ⁠עָוֺֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of iniquity, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [from doing what is wrong]

Malachi 2:7

the lips of a priest should guard knowledge

Quote: שִׂפְתֵ֤י כֹהֵן֙ יִשְׁמְרוּ־דַ֔עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of a priest, his lips, to mean all of him in the act of speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a priest, through what he says, should give people better knowledge of how to obey Yahweh]

should guard knowledge

Quote: יִשְׁמְרוּ־דַ֔עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if knowledge were something that one could guard or protect. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [should preserve and promote knowledge]

should guard knowledge

Quote: יִשְׁמְרוּ־דַ֔עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of knowledge, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [should help people to know how to obey Yahweh]

they should seek

Quote: יְבַקְשׁ֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to people in general. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [people should seek]

and they should seek instruction

Quote: וְ⁠תוֹרָ֖ה יְבַקְשׁ֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of instruction, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [and they should seek to be instructed]

from his mouth

Quote: מִ⁠פִּ֑י⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word mouth by association to mean what the priest says. Alternate translation: [by what he says]

is} the messenger of Yahweh of Armies

Quote: מַלְאַ֥ךְ יְהוָֽה־צְבָא֖וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [is the messenger of me, Yahweh of Armies]

Malachi 2:8

But you yourselves have turned from the way

Quote: וְ⁠אַתֶּם֙ סַרְתֶּ֣ם מִן־הַ⁠דֶּ֔רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar image in 2:6. Alternate translation: [But you yourselves have stopped living as I want people to live]

You have caused many to stumble

Quote: הִכְשַׁלְתֶּ֥ם רַבִּ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if the priests had caused people to stumble or trip and fall. This image represents leading people to sin. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [You have led many people to sin]

by {your} instruction

Quote: בַּ⁠תּוֹרָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of instruction, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [by what you have taught them]

You have corrupted

Quote: שִֽׁחַתֶּם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if his covenant with the priests descended from Levi were something that they had corrupted, that is, physically spoiled and made useless, like the crops eaten by pests described with the same term in 3:11. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [You have failed to fulfill the purpose of]

Levi

Quote: הַ⁠לֵּוִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same expression in 2:4. Alternate translation: [the descendants of Levi who became priests]

Malachi 2:9

and {are} lifting faces

Quote: וְ⁠נֹשְׂאִ֥ים פָּנִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:8. Alternate translation: [and you are showing favoritism]

regarding the instruction

Quote: בַּ⁠תּוֹרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that the priests will know that in this instance, the expression the instruction implicitly means the law of Moses and how the priests have been applying it in individual cases. (Elsewhere in the chapter, the term has a more general meaning.) You could say that explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [regarding how you apply the law of Moses]

Malachi 2:10

Is} not one father to all of us? Did not one God create us

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֨וֹא אָ֤ב אֶחָד֙ לְ⁠כֻלָּ֔⁠נוּ הֲ⁠ל֛וֹא אֵ֥ל אֶֽחָ֖ד בְּרָאָ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Malachi is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate these questions as statements or as exclamations. Alternate translation: [We all have one father; one God created us!]

Is} not one father to all of us? Did not one God create us

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֨וֹא אָ֤ב אֶחָד֙ לְ⁠כֻלָּ֔⁠נוּ הֲ⁠ל֛וֹא אֵ֥ל אֶֽחָ֖ד בְּרָאָ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. However, since the first uses an image and the second explains the image, you might keep both phrases in your translation and show how the second explains the first. Alternate translation: [The same God created all of us. And so it is as if we all had the same father]

Why do we deal treacherously, a man against his brother, to profane the covenant of our fathers

Quote: מַדּ֗וּעַ נִבְגַּד֙ אִ֣ישׁ בְּ⁠אָחִ֔י⁠ו לְ⁠חַלֵּ֖ל בְּרִ֥ית אֲבֹתֵֽי⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Malachi is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [We should not deal treacherously, a man against his brother, profaning the covenant of our fathers!]

a man against his brother

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ בְּ⁠אָחִ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean that people were acting against others of their own community. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [people against others of their own community]

our fathers

Quote: אֲבֹתֵֽי⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Malachi is speaking of the ancestors of the Israelites as if they were the fathers of the current generation. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [our forefathers]

Malachi 2:11

Judah has dealt treacherously, and an abomination has been done in Israel and in Jerusalem

Quote: בָּגְדָ֣ה יְהוּדָ֔ה וְ⁠תוֹעֵבָ֛ה נֶעֶשְׂתָ֥ה בְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל וּ⁠בִ⁠ירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [The people of Judah are doing treacherous things in Israel and in Jerusalem]

Judah has dealt treacherously, … Judah has profaned

Quote: בָּגְדָ֣ה יְהוּדָ֔ה & חִלֵּ֣ל יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Malachi is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [The people of Judah have dealt treacherously … The people of Judah have profaned]

and an abomination has been done in Israel and in Jerusalem

Quote: וְ⁠תוֹעֵבָ֛ה נֶעֶשְׂתָ֥ה בְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל וּ⁠בִ⁠ירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and the people have done an abomination in Israel and in Jerusalem] or [and the people have committed an abomination in Israel and in Jerusalem]

and has married the daughter of a foreign god

Quote: וּ⁠בָעַ֖ל בַּת־אֵ֥ל נֵכָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Malachi is speaking as if foreign gods had daughters that the people of Judah could marry. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. This could mean: (1) that the Judeans have allied themselves closely with foreign gods as their worshipers, as if they had made a marriage alliance the way kingdoms did. Alternate translation: [and has worshiped foreign gods] (2) that Judean men have married foreign women, and this has led them to worship foreign gods. Alternate translation: [and Judean men have married foreign women and begun to worship their gods]

Malachi 2:12

May Yahweh cut off from the tents of Jacob

Quote: יַכְרֵ֨ת יְהוָ֜ה & מֵ⁠אָהֳלֵ֖י יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Malachi is describing the people of Israel by association with their ancestor Jacob, who was also known as Israel. Alternate translation: [May Yahweh cut off from the tents of the people of Israel]

May Yahweh cut off

Quote: יַכְרֵ֨ת יְהוָ֜ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The expression cut off is one that people of this culture would commonly use to mean to “remove.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [May Yahweh remove]

from the tents of Jacob

Quote: מֵ⁠אָהֳלֵ֖י יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Malachi is using the word tents by association to mean the community of Israel. Alternate translation: [from the community of Israel]

the man

Quote: לָ⁠אִ֨ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here the masculine term man has a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [anyone]

the one being awake and the one answering

Quote: עֵ֣ר וְ⁠עֹנֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Malachi is speaking of two extremes in order to include them and everything in between. He is alluding to a watchman guarding a city at night (the one being awake) and someone approaching the city who is responding to the challenge, “Who is there?” (the one answering). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [no matter who he is]

Malachi 2:13

covering the altar of Yahweh {with} tears

Quote: כַּסּ֤וֹת דִּמְעָה֙ אֶת־מִזְבַּ֣ח יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Malachi is making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [weeping profusely at the altar of Yahweh]

turning to the offering or taking {it} with favor {from} your hand

Quote: פְּנוֹת֙ אֶל־הַ⁠מִּנְחָ֔ה וְ⁠לָ⁠קַ֥חַת רָצ֖וֹן מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Malachi uses them together to emphasize how Yahweh is rejecting the offerings. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: [accepting your offerings favorably]

turning to the offering

Quote: פְּנוֹת֙ אֶל־הַ⁠מִּנְחָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase turning to is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean “to pay attention to” or “to accept something.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [accepting the offering]

from} your hand

Quote: מִ⁠יֶּדְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Malachi is using one part of the people, their hand, to mean all of them in the act of offering sacrifices. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from you] or [that you give]

Malachi 2:14

Yahweh is a witness between you and between the wife of your youth

Quote: יְהוָה֩ הֵעִ֨יד בֵּינְ⁠ךָ֜ וּ⁠בֵ֣ין ׀ אֵ֣שֶׁת נְעוּרֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this culture, when people made promises to one another, they often did this with witnesses watching. The role of those witnesses included holding the people to their promises. The Judean men had made covenant promises to their wives when they married them. Malachi assumes that those men will know that when he refers to Yahweh as a witness, he means that Yahweh is holding them to those promises. Yahweh is doing that by showing his disfavor through not accepting their offerings. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Because Yahweh is enforcing the covenant promises you made to the wife of your youth]

between you … your youth, {… you yourself have dealt treacherously, … was} your companion … your covenant

Quote: בֵּינְ⁠ךָ֜ & נְעוּרֶ֗י⁠ךָ & אַתָּה֙ בָּגַ֣דְתָּה & חֲבֶרְתְּ⁠ךָ֖ & בְּרִיתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Except for the first occurrence of the the word you, the words you, your, and yourself are singular in this verse because, even though Malachi is speaking to the Judeans as a group, he is addressing an individual situation. So use singular forms in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

the wife of your youth

Quote: אֵ֣שֶׁת נְעוּרֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of youth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the wife you married when you were young]

Malachi 2:15

And did he not make one, and a remnant of spirit {was} to him

Quote: וְ⁠לֹא־אֶחָ֣ד עָשָׂ֗ה וּ⁠שְׁאָ֥ר ר֨וּחַ֙ ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Malachi is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. See the General Notes to this chapter for a discussion of this sentence. Alternate translation: [After all, he made one, and a remnant of spirit was to him!]

and a remnant of spirit {was} to him

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁאָ֥ר ר֨וּחַ֙ ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun him refers back to the pronoun one, meaning the husband and the wife. It may be more natural in your language to use a plural pronoun. See the General Notes to this chapter for a discussion of this clause. Alternate translation: [and a remnant of spirit was to them]

And why one? {He was} seeking seed of God

Quote: וּ⁠מָה֙ הָֽ⁠אֶחָ֔ד מְבַקֵּ֖שׁ זֶ֣רַע אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Malachi is not asking the question And why one? to get information. Rather, he is asking and then answering his own question. This was a common practice of Jewish public speakers in this time period (and also in New Testament times). Alternate translation: [And I will tell you why he made one: he was seeking seed of God]

seed of God

Quote: זֶ֣רַע אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Malachi is using this possessive form to mean offspring that would be faithful to God. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [offspring that would be faithful to God]

So guard yourselves in your spirit

Quote: וְ⁠נִשְׁמַרְתֶּם֙ בְּ⁠ר֣וּחֲ⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Malachi is speaking as if a person’s spirit were a physical place where they could be guarded. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [So be careful about your attitudes]

Malachi 2:16

and one {who} covers over his garment with violence

Quote: וְ⁠כִסָּ֤ה חָמָס֙ עַל־לְבוּשׁ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

For a discussion of the phrase covers his garment with violence and suggestions for how to translate it, see the General Notes to this chapter.

So guard yourselves in your spirit

Quote: וְ⁠נִשְׁמַרְתֶּ֥ם בְּ⁠רוּחֲ⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this in the previous verse.

Malachi 2:17

with your words

Quote: בְּ⁠דִבְרֵי⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term words by association to mean what the people are saying. Alternate translation: [by what you are saying]

the doers of evil

Quote: עֹ֨שֵׂה רָ֜ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of evil, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the people who do evil things]

in the eyes of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י יְהוָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Malachi is using the word eyes by association to mean sight. Sight, by association, represents judgment and perspective. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in Yahweh’s perspective]

Where {is} the God of justice

Quote: אַיֵּ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י הַ⁠מִּשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of justice, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Where is the God who judges fairly?]

Where {is} the God of justice

Quote: אַיֵּ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י הַ⁠מִּשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [God is not punishing people who do not act justly]

Malachi 3

Malachi 3 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

2:17–3:5 Yahweh is concerned for justice and will punish evildoers

3:6–12 Judeans are not bringing proper tithes

3:13–15 Yahweh will punish the wicked, despite what Judeans are saying

3:16–4:6 Yahweh will bless and protect those who fear him

Malachi 3:1

Behold me, sending

Quote: הִנְ⁠נִ֤י שֹׁלֵחַ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Behold me is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean that they were about to do something. See how you translated the similar expression in 2:3. Alternate translation: [Now I am about to send]

and he will prepare the way to my face

Quote: וּ⁠פִנָּה־דֶ֖רֶךְ לְ⁠פָנָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word face to mean his presence by association with the way people can see the face of someone who is present. Alternate translation: [and he will prepare the way for me to be present among you]

and he will prepare the way to my face

Quote: וּ⁠פִנָּה־דֶ֖רֶךְ לְ⁠פָנָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of his coming as if it were a journey for which a way needed to be prepared. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he will get things ready for my coming]

behold

Quote: הִנֵּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh uses this word to get the people’s attention. See how you translated a similar use of this word in 1:13. Alternate translation: [pay attention]

Malachi 3:2

But who {will be} enduring the day of his coming? And who {will be} the one standing in his appearing? For he {will be} like the fire of a refiner and like the soap of launderers

Quote: וּ⁠מִ֤י מְכַלְכֵּל֙ אֶת־י֣וֹם בּוֹא֔⁠וֹ וּ⁠מִ֥י הָ⁠עֹמֵ֖ד בְּ⁠הֵרָֽאוֹת֑⁠וֹ כִּֽי־הוּא֙ כְּ⁠אֵ֣שׁ מְצָרֵ֔ף וּ⁠כְ⁠בֹרִ֖ית מְכַבְּסִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [He will be like the fire of a refiner and like the soap of launderers. So who will be able to endure the day of his coming? And who will be able to stand when he appears?]

But who {will be} enduring the day of his coming? And who {will be} the one standing in his appearing

Quote: וּ⁠מִ֤י מְכַלְכֵּל֙ אֶת־י֣וֹם בּוֹא֔⁠וֹ וּ⁠מִ֥י הָ⁠עֹמֵ֖ד בְּ⁠הֵרָֽאוֹת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [No one will be able to endure the day of his coming! No one will be able to stand when he appears!]

But who {will be} enduring the day of his coming? And who {will be} the one standing in his appearing

Quote: וּ⁠מִ֤י מְכַלְכֵּל֙ אֶת־י֣וֹם בּוֹא֔⁠וֹ וּ⁠מִ֥י הָ⁠עֹמֵ֖ד בְּ⁠הֵרָֽאוֹת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. Hebrew poetry was based on this kind of repetition, and it would be good to show this to your readers by including both phrases in your translation rather than combining them. It may be clearer in your language to connect the phrases with a word other than “and” in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: [No one will be able to endure the day of his coming! Indeed, no one will be able to stand when he appears!]

will be} the one standing

Quote: הָ⁠עֹמֵ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is using the image of standing to speak of a person being declared innocent. The idea is that if he were declared guilty, that would be like a weight too heavy for the person to carry, and the person would sink down under it. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [will be declared innocent]

he {will be} like the fire of a refiner and like the soap of launderers

Quote: הוּא֙ כְּ⁠אֵ֣שׁ מְצָרֵ֔ף וּ⁠כְ⁠בֹרִ֖ית מְכַבְּסִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as fire refines metal and soap cleans clothes, so the messenger will purify the people, that is, he will help them forsake the sins they have been committing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [just as fire refines metal and soap cleans clothes, he will purify people by helping them stop sinning]

Malachi 3:3

And he will sit refining and purifying silver

Quote: וְ⁠יָשַׁ֨ב מְצָרֵ֤ף וּ⁠מְטַהֵר֙ כֶּ֔סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if the messenger were going to be a metalworker who was refining and purifying precious metals. Since he expresses this same image as a comparison in the next clause, you may wish to present it as a comparison here as well. Alternate translation: [Yes, in that way he will be like someone who sits refining and purifying silver]

the sons of Levi

Quote: אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־לֵוִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if these priests were the sons of their ancestor Levi. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the descendants of Levi who are priests]

and refine them like gold and like silver

Quote: וְ⁠זִקַּ֣ק אֹתָ֔⁠ם כַּ⁠זָּהָ֖ב וְ⁠כַ⁠כָּ֑סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as gold and silver are refined to remove impurities, so the messenger will purify the people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [and he will purify the people from sin just as gold and silver are refined to remove impurities from them]

Malachi 3:4

the offering of Judah and Jerusalem

Quote: מִנְחַ֥ת יְהוּדָ֖ה וִ⁠ירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Yahweh is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [the offerings of the people of Judah and Jerusalem]

as {in} the days of old and as {in} former years

Quote: כִּ⁠ימֵ֣י עוֹלָ֔ם וּ⁠כְ⁠שָׁנִ֖ים קַדְמֹנִיּֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: [as in the past]

Malachi 3:5

against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against the ones swearing to a lie, and against the ones oppressing the wage of the hired worker, the widow, and the orphan, and the ones turning aside the foreigner, and they do not fear me

Quote: בַּֽ⁠מְכַשְּׁפִים֙ וּ⁠בַ⁠מְנָ֣אֲפִ֔ים וּ⁠בַ⁠נִּשְׁבָּעִ֖ים לַ⁠שָּׁ֑קֶר וּ⁠בְ⁠עֹשְׁקֵ֣י שְׂכַר־שָׂ֠כִיר אַלְמָנָ֨ה וְ⁠יָת֤וֹם וּ⁠מַטֵּי־גֵר֙ וְ⁠לֹ֣א יְרֵא֔וּ⁠נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [against those who, because they do not fear me, are sorcerers or adulterers or swear to a lie or oppress the wage of the hired worker, the widow, and the orphan or turn aside the foreigner]

for judgment

Quote: לַ⁠מִּשְׁפָּט֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [as a judge]

And I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against the ones swearing to a lie, and against the ones oppressing the wage of the hired worker, the widow, and the orphan, and the ones turning aside the foreigner

Quote: וְ⁠הָיִ֣יתִי ׀ עֵ֣ד מְמַהֵ֗ר בַּֽ⁠מְכַשְּׁפִים֙ וּ⁠בַ⁠מְנָ֣אֲפִ֔ים וּ⁠בַ⁠נִּשְׁבָּעִ֖ים לַ⁠שָּׁ֑קֶר וּ⁠בְ⁠עֹשְׁקֵ֣י שְׂכַר־שָׂ֠כִיר אַלְמָנָ֨ה וְ⁠יָת֤וֹם וּ⁠מַטֵּי־גֵר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using the idea of being a witness to represent the entire process of judging and punishing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And I will declare people guilty and punish them for what they have done wrong, including sorcerers, adulterers, those who swear to a lie, those who oppress the wage of the hired worker, the widow, and the orphan, and those who turn aside the foreigner]

and against the ones oppressing the wage of

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠עֹשְׁקֵ֣י שְׂכַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Yahweh is speaking of wage as if it were a person who could be oppressed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and against those who do not pay fair wages to]

the hired worker, the widow, and the orphan, … the foreigner

Quote: שָׂ֠כִיר אַלְמָנָ֨ה וְ⁠יָת֤וֹם & גֵר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the hired worker and the widow and the orphan and the foreigner represent hired workers, widows, orphans, and foreigners in general, not a specific hired worker or widow or orphan or foreigner. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use more natural expressions. Alternate translation: [hired workers, widows, orphans … foreigners]

and the ones turning aside the foreigner

Quote: וּ⁠מַטֵּי־גֵר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of denying justice to foreigners as if people who did that were turning them aside from a road they were walking on and needed to stay on. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and those who deny justice to foreigners]

Malachi 3:6

For I, Yahweh, do not change, so you, sons of Jacob, have not come to an end

Quote: כִּ֛י אֲנִ֥י יְהוָ֖ה לֹ֣א שָׁנִ֑יתִי וְ⁠אַתֶּ֥ם בְּנֵֽי־יַעֲקֹ֖ב לֹ֥א כְלִיתֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate the double negatives do not change and have not come to an end. Alternate translation: [It is only because I, Yahweh, have remained the same that you, sons of Jacob, are still a people group]

do not change

Quote: לֹ֣א שָׁנִ֑יתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that the Judeans will understand that when he says that he does not change, he means that he always keeps his promises. He promised Abraham that he would bless his descendants, and so he is still taking care of them, even though they have been disobedient. You could say that explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [always keep my promises] or [intend to keep my promise to Abraham to bless his descendants]

sons of Jacob

Quote: בְּנֵֽי־יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of the Israelites as if they were the sons of their ancestor Jacob. See how you translated the similar expression in 3:3. Alternate translation: [descendants of Jacob]

Malachi 3:7

your fathers

Quote: אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶ֜ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of the ancestors of the Israelites as if they were the literal fathers of the current generation. Alternate translation: [forefathers]

you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept {them

Quote: סַרְתֶּ֤ם מֵֽ⁠חֻקַּ⁠י֙ וְ⁠לֹ֣א שְׁמַרְתֶּ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Yahweh uses them together to emphasize how the people have disobeyed him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: [you have completely disobeyed my statutes]

you have turned aside from my statutes

Quote: סַרְתֶּ֤ם מֵֽ⁠חֻקַּ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of disobeying his statutes as if that were turning aside from a path on which one needed to walk. Alternate translation: [you have disobeyed my statutes]

But you say, ‘In what shall we return

Quote: וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם בַּ⁠מֶּ֥ה נָשֽׁוּב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [But you ask how you should return]

Malachi 3:8

Will a human rob God? Yet you {are} robbing me

Quote: הֲ⁠יִקְבַּ֨ע אָדָ֜ם אֱלֹהִ֗ים כִּ֤י אַתֶּם֙ קֹבְעִ֣ים אֹתִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is not asking the question Will a human rob God? to get information. Rather, he is asking and then answering his own question. See how you translated the similar instance in 2:15. Alternate translation: [It does not seem that a human would dare to rob God, yet you are robbing me]

But you say, ‘In what have we robbed you

Quote: וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם בַּ⁠מֶּ֣ה קְבַעֲנ֑וּ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [But you ask how you have robbed me]

In} the tithe and the contribution

Quote: הַֽ⁠מַּעֲשֵׂ֖ר וְ⁠הַ⁠תְּרוּמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [You have robbed me in the tithe and the contribution]

Malachi 3:9

With a curse you {are} cursed, for you {are} robbing me

Quote: בַּ⁠מְּאֵרָה֙ אַתֶּ֣ם נֵֽאָרִ֔ים וְ⁠אֹתִ֖⁠י אַתֶּ֣ם קֹבְעִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because you are robbing me, you are cursed with a curse]

With a curse you {are} cursed

Quote: בַּ⁠מְּאֵרָה֙ אַתֶּ֣ם נֵֽאָרִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I have cursed you with a curse]

With a curse you {are} cursed

Quote: בַּ⁠מְּאֵרָה֙ אַתֶּ֣ם נֵֽאָרִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, Yahweh is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [You are solemnly cursed] or [I have solemnly cursed you]

the nation, all of it

Quote: הַ⁠גּ֖וֹי כֻּלּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun it refers to the nation of Israel and specifically to the Judeans of that nationality whom Yahweh is addressing. Since Yahweh is addressing them directly, it may be more natural in your language to use the pronoun “you.” Alternate translation: [the nation, all of you] or [every one of you Israelites]

Malachi 3:10

the house of treasure

Quote: בֵּ֣ית הָ⁠אוֹצָ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of treasure, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the temple treasury]

food in my house

Quote: טֶ֨רֶף֙ בְּ⁠בֵיתִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of the temple as if it were his house. Alternate translation: [provision for the priests who serve in my temple]

if I will not open for you the windows of the heavens and pour out for you a blessing

Quote: אִם־לֹ֧א אֶפְתַּ֣ח לָ⁠כֶ֗ם אֵ֚ת אֲרֻבּ֣וֹת הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם וַ⁠הֲרִיקֹתִ֥י לָ⁠כֶ֛ם בְּרָכָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of giving blessings as if he were opening windows in the sky and pouring them out. Alternate translation: [if I will not give you abundant blessings]

a blessing

Quote: בְּרָכָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that the people will understand that by a blessing he means abundant crops. You could say that explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [abundant crops]

until there is no sufficiency

Quote: עַד־בְּלִי־דָֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sufficiency, you could express the same idea in another way. Yahweh is not saying that there will not be sufficient crops; he means that there will be so many crops that the storehouses of the Judeans will not be sufficient to contain them. Alternate translation: [until you no longer have sufficient room to contain it]

Malachi 3:11

And I will rebuke the devourer for you

Quote: וְ⁠גָעַרְתִּ֤י לָ⁠כֶם֙ בָּֽ⁠אֹכֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Yahweh is not speaking about a specific devourer, that is, not about a specific insect or animal that would eat the Judeans’ crops. He means such pests in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [And I will rebuke the devourers for you] or [And I will rebuke the pests that would eat your crops]

And I will rebuke the devourer for you

Quote: וְ⁠גָעַרְתִּ֤י לָ⁠כֶם֙ בָּֽ⁠אֹכֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Yahweh is speaking of pests as if they were a person he could rebuke. Alternate translation: [And I will keep pests from eating your crops]

the fruit of the ground

Quote: אֶת־פְּרִ֣י הָ⁠אֲדָמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of crops as if they were the fruit of the ground. Alternate translation: [the crops that grow from the ground]

And the vine in the field will not be barren for you

Quote: וְ⁠לֹא־תְשַׁכֵּ֨ל לָ⁠כֶ֤ם הַ⁠גֶּ֨פֶן֙ בַּ⁠שָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Yahweh is speaking of vines as if they were women who could be barren or unable to have children. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And your vines will steadily produce grapes]

Malachi 3:12

a land of delight

Quote: אֶ֣רֶץ חֵ֔פֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of delight, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [a land that delights people]

Malachi 3:13

Your words have been strong against me

Quote: חָזְק֥וּ עָלַ֛⁠י דִּבְרֵי⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term words by association to mean what the people have been saying. Alternate translation: [You have been speaking strongly against me]

But you say, ‘What have we spoken {among ourselves} against you

Quote: וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֕ם מַה־נִּדְבַּ֖רְנוּ עָלֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [But you ask what you have spoken among yourselves against me]

Malachi 3:14

You have said, ‘Serving God {is} worthless. And what profit, that we have kept his charge and that we have walked mournfully to the face of Yahweh of Armies

Quote: אֲמַרְתֶּ֕ם שָׁ֖וְא עֲבֹ֣ד אֱלֹהִ֑ים וּ⁠מַה־בֶּ֗צַע כִּ֤י שָׁמַ֨רְנוּ֙ מִשְׁמַרְתּ֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠כִ֤י הָלַ֨כְנוּ֙ קְדֹ֣רַנִּ֔ית מִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה צְבָאֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [You have said that it is worthless to serve God, and you have asked how it has profited you that you have kept his charge and that you have walked mournfully to the face of Yahweh of Armies]

we have walked

Quote: הָלַ֨כְנוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of how the people have lived as if they had walked on a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [we have lived]

to the face of Yahweh of Armies

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה צְבָאֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The people are using the word face to mean presence by association with the way people can see the face of someone who is present. Alternate translation: [in the presence of Yahweh of Armies]

Malachi 3:15

So now we ourselves {are} blessing the arrogant. Even doers of wickedness are built up; they even test God and escape

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֕ה אֲנַ֖חְנוּ מְאַשְּׁרִ֣ים זֵדִ֑ים גַּם־נִבְנוּ֙ עֹשֵׂ֣י רִשְׁעָ֔ה גַּ֧ם בָּחֲנ֛וּ אֱלֹהִ֖ים וַ⁠יִּמָּלֵֽטוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If you decided to translate the previous verse so that there would not be a quotation within a quotation, you can do the same thing here. Alternate translation: [You have said that you yourselves are blessing the arrogant. You say that even doers of wickedness are built up, they even test God and escape]

doers of wickedness are built up

Quote: נִבְנוּ֙ עֹשֵׂ֣י רִשְׁעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [doers of wickedness gain in stature]

doers of wickedness

Quote: עֹשֵׂ֣י רִשְׁעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of wickedness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [people who do wicked things]

Malachi 3:16

a man with his neighbor

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ אֶת־רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to describe people speaking with one another. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [discussing things with one another]

And Yahweh paid attention and heard

Quote: וַ⁠יַּקְשֵׁ֤ב יְהוָה֙ וַ⁠יִּשְׁמָ֔ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The author uses them together to emphasize how closely Yahweh listened. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: [And Yahweh paid close attention as they spoke]

And a book of remembrance was written

Quote: וַ֠⁠יִּכָּתֵב סֵ֣פֶר זִכָּר֤וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And those people wrote a book of remembrance]

to his face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנָי⁠ו֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the word face to mean presence by association with the way people can see the face of someone who is present. Alternate translation: [in his presence]

for the ones fearing Yahweh and for the ones esteeming his name

Quote: לְ⁠יִרְאֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה וּ⁠לְ⁠חֹשְׁבֵ֖י שְׁמֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [for the ones who feared Yahweh and esteemed his name]

and for the ones esteeming his name

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠חֹשְׁבֵ֖י שְׁמֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the word name to represent Yahweh’s reputation. Alternate translation: [and for the ones who were concerned for the honor of his reputation]

Malachi 3:17

And they will be to me,” says Yahweh of Armies, “a special possession

Quote: וְ⁠הָ֣יוּ לִ֗⁠י אָמַר֙ יְהוָ֣ה צְבָא֔וֹת & סְגֻלָּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of possession, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [“And I will possess them” says Yahweh of Armies, “in a special way”]

on the day that I {am} preparing

Quote: לַ⁠יּ֕וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲנִ֖י עֹשֶׂ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh speaks as if he is preparing a day. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [at the time when I act, as I am now preparing to do]

just as

Quote: כַּֽ⁠אֲשֶׁר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as a father tenderly cares for his son who serves him, so Yahweh will tenderly care for those who serve him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [in the same way that]

Malachi 3:18

And you will return and see

Quote: וְ⁠שַׁבְתֶּם֙ וּ⁠רְאִיתֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean to seeing something again. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you will see once again]

And you will return and see

Quote: וְ⁠שַׁבְתֶּם֙ וּ⁠רְאִיתֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that the people will understand that by see, he means acknowledge. You could say that explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And once again you will acknowledge]

between the righteous and to the wicked

Quote: בֵּ֥ין צַדִּ֖יק לְ⁠רָשָׁ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [that there is a difference between the righteous and the wicked]

between the righteous and to the wicked, between the one serving God and to {one} who does not serve him

Quote: בֵּ֥ין צַדִּ֖יק לְ⁠רָשָׁ֑ע בֵּ֚ין עֹבֵ֣ד אֱלֹהִ֔ים לַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר לֹ֥א עֲבָדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [between the righteous, who serve God, and the wicked, who do not serve him]

the righteous and to the wicked

Quote: צַדִּ֖יק לְ⁠רָשָׁ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Yahweh is using the adjectives righteous and wicked as nouns to mean certain kinds of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate these adjectives with equivalent phrases. Alternate translation: [righteous people and wicked people]

Malachi 4

Malachi 4 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

3:16–4:6 Yahweh will bless and protect those who fear him

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

“I am sending to you Elijah the prophet” (4:5)

While Malachi’s listeners and later generations of Jews may have expected this prophecy to be fulfilled by the return of Elijah himself, Jesus explained that it was fulfilled through the life and witness of John the Baptist (Matthew 17:10–13).

Malachi 4:1

behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if he wanted his listeners to behold or look at something. He is using this term to focus his listeners’ attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation.

burning like an oven, when all of the arrogant and all of the doers of wickedness will be stubble

Quote: בֹּעֵ֖ר כַּ⁠תַּנּ֑וּר וְ⁠הָי֨וּ כָל־זֵדִ֜ים וְ⁠כָל־עֹשֵׂ֤ה רִשְׁעָה֙ קַ֔שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of the day of judgment as if it were an oven that would be burning people. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this image as a comparison. Alternate translation: [when I will destroy all of the arrogant people and all of the doers of wickedness as if they were stubble being burned in an oven]

all of the arrogant

Quote: כָל־זֵדִ֜ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Yahweh is using the adjective arrogant as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [all arrogant people]

and all of the doers of wickedness

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־עֹשֵׂ֤ה רִשְׁעָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of wickedness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [all of the people who do wicked things]

when all of the arrogant and all of the doers of wickedness will be stubble

Quote: וְ⁠הָי֨וּ כָל־זֵדִ֜ים וְ⁠כָל־עֹשֵׂ֤ה רִשְׁעָה֙ קַ֔שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of wicked people as if they were stubble that his judgment would kindle and burn up. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this image as a comparison. Alternate translation: [when all of the arrogant and all of the doers of wickedness will be completely destroyed, as if they were stubble that was burned up]

to them root or branch

Quote: לָ⁠הֶ֖ם שֹׁ֥רֶשׁ וְ⁠עָנָֽף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Yahweh is speaking of two extremes in order to include them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [any part of them remaining]

Malachi 4:2

But for you fearers of my name, the sun of righteousness will rise

Quote: וְ⁠זָרְחָ֨ה לָ⁠כֶ֜ם יִרְאֵ֤י שְׁמִ⁠י֙ שֶׁ֣מֶשׁ צְדָקָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if righteousness were the sun and that it would rise over the fearers of his name. He means that he will establish his righteous rule so that those who obey him are vindicated, honored, and blessed. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this image as a comparison. Alternate translation: [But when I establish my righteous rule, you who fear my name will be honored as if the sun were shining brightly on you]

fearers of my name

Quote: יִרְאֵ֤י שְׁמִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using his name to represent all of him. Alternate translation: [who fear me]

and healing {will be} upon its wings

Quote: וּ⁠מַרְפֵּ֖א בִּ⁠כְנָפֶ֑י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if the sun had wings. He is using the image to speak of the arrival of the sun, which represents the effects of his establishing his reign. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and it will bring healing to you]

And you will go out and skip

Quote: וִֽ⁠יצָאתֶ֥ם וּ⁠פִשְׁתֶּ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if the people would be so happy that they would go out and skip. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you will be very joyful]

like calves of the stall

Quote: כְּ⁠עֶגְלֵ֥י מַרְבֵּֽק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as calves that have been kept in a stall are very playful when they are let out, so the people will act very joyfully. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [and feel as playful as calves that have been let out of their stall]

Malachi 4:3

And you will trample the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet

Quote: וְ⁠עַסּוֹתֶ֣ם רְשָׁעִ֔ים כִּֽי־יִהְי֣וּ אֵ֔פֶר תַּ֖חַת כַּפּ֣וֹת רַגְלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [The wicked will be like ashes under the soles of your feet, so you will trample them]

And you will trample the wicked

Quote: וְ⁠עַסּוֹתֶ֣ם רְשָׁעִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of the people’s victory over the wicked as if they would trample them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you will be triumphant over the wicked]

the wicked

Quote: רְשָׁעִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Yahweh is using the adjective wicked as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [wicked people]

for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet

Quote: כִּֽי־יִהְי֣וּ אֵ֔פֶר תַּ֖חַת כַּפּ֣וֹת רַגְלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking of the complete defeat of the wicked as if they literally become ashes under the people’s feet. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [for you will defeat them completely]

on the day that I {am} preparing

Quote: בַּ⁠יּוֹם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֲנִ֣י עֹשֶׂ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 3:17. Alternate translation: [at the time when I act, as I am now preparing to do]

Malachi 4:4

Remember

Quote: זִכְר֕וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the word Remember to mean obey by association with the way people need to remember something in order to obey it. Alternate translation: [Obey]

the statutes and the judgments

Quote: חֻקִּ֖ים וּ⁠מִשְׁפָּטִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Yahweh is speaking of two types of laws in order to include them and all other types of laws. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [including all of its laws]

Malachi 4:5

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 4:1. Alternate translation (ending with a period): [Pay attention to what I am about to say]

to the face of the coming of

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֗י בּ֚וֹא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Malachi is using the phrase to the face to represent what is in front of someone or something. Here, the thing is a day that is described as though it were a person who is coming, so what is in front of the day is there before the day arrives. Therefore, to the face of the coming of means “before the coming of” the day. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [before the coming of]

the great and fearsome day of Yahweh

Quote: י֣וֹם יְהוָ֔ה הַ⁠גָּד֖וֹל וְ⁠הַ⁠נּוֹרָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [my great and fearsome day]

Malachi 4:6

And he will turn the heart of the fathers to the sons, and the heart of the sons to their fathers

Quote: וְ⁠הֵשִׁ֤יב לֵב־אָבוֹת֙ עַל־בָּנִ֔ים וְ⁠לֵ֥ב בָּנִ֖ים עַל־אֲבוֹתָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here the masculine terms fathers and sons have a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [And he will turn the heart of parents to their children and the heart of children to their parents]

And he will turn the heart of the fathers to the sons, and the heart of the sons to their fathers

Quote: וְ⁠הֵשִׁ֤יב לֵב־אָבוֹת֙ עַל־בָּנִ֔ים וְ⁠לֵ֥ב בָּנִ֖ים עַל־אֲבוֹתָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an expression that people of this culture would commonly use to mean “to reconcile people to one another.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And he will reconcile fathers to their sons]

and the heart of the sons to their fathers

Quote: וְ⁠לֵ֥ב בָּנִ֖ים עַל־אֲבוֹתָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and he will turn the heart of the sons to their fathers]

the heart of … and the heart of

Quote: לֵב & וְ⁠לֵ֥ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Yahweh is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of heart. Alternate translation: [the hearts of … and the hearts of]