Malachi
Malachi front
Introduction to Malachi
Part 1: General Introduction
Outline of Malachi
- The word of Yahweh comes to Israel (1:1)
- Yahweh loves Israel and rejects Esau (Edom) (1:2–5)
- A message against the priests (1:6–2:9)
- A message against Judah: they have broken faith by divorcing and intermarrying (2:10–16)
- A message about the day of refining (2:17–3:6)
- A message about tithing (3:7–12)
- A message about those who others treated shamefully, but who were faithful to Yahweh (3:13–18)
- Yahweh will punish the wicked and send Elijah before the “great and terrible day of Yahweh” (4:5–6)
What is the Book of Malachi about?
The Book of Malachi is about the prophecies that Malachi spoke to the Jews who had returned from Babylon to Judah. 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. And the Persian Empire still ruled over them. As a result, they no longer were concerned about the law or worshiping Yahweh. Malachi rebuked them for not trusting in Yahweh. But he also promised them that Yahweh would do everything that he promised to do.
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 “The Book about Malachi” or “The Sayings of Malachi.” (See: How to Translate Names)
Who wrote the Book of Malachi?
The prophet Malachi wrote these messages from Yahweh to the Jews. However, since “Malachi” means “my messenger,” it is possible that this was a title for this prophet. If so, we do not know his real name.
Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
What was meant by the day of Yahweh?
Malachi spoke about “the day” several times. This is the same as “the day of Yahweh.” In the Book of Malachi, this is the time when Yahweh would judge his people. He would remove those who wickedly sin and bless those who trust in him. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)
Malachi 1
Malachi 1 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Yahweh of hosts
This is an important title used in this chapter. It reminds the reader of the great power Yahweh has to punish the nations. (See: Yahweh of hosts, God of hosts, host of heaven, host of the heavens, Lord of hosts)
Important figures of speech in this chapter
Rhetorical questions
There are many rhetorical questions in this chapter. They all have a rather dramatic effect. They increase the emotional connotations of what is being said. (See: Rhetorical Question)
Malachi 1:1
The oracle of the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of Malachi
Quote: מַשָּׂ֥א דְבַר־יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל בְּיַ֖ד מַלְאָכִֽי (1)If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. “This is the declaration of the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of Malachi”
Yahweh
Quote: יְהוָ֖ה (1)Yahewh is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.
by the hand of Malachi
Quote: בְּיַ֖ד מַלְאָכִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase by the hand of is an idiom that means that Yahweh used Malachi to deliver his message. Alternate translation: “through Malachi” or “spoken to them by Malachi”
Malachi 1:2
How have you loved us
Quote: בַּמָּ֣ה אֲהַבְתָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This question indicates that the people doubt the truth of what God says. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have not shown that you love us.”
Was not Esau the brother of Jacob
Quote: הֲלוֹא־אָ֨ח עֵשָׂ֤ו לְיַֽעֲקֹב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This question, a reply of Yahweh reminding the people of their nation’s history, may also be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that Esau was Jacob’s brother.”
declares Yahweh
Quote: נְאֻם־יְהוָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: “Yahweh has solemnly said this”
Yet I have loved Jacob
Quote: וָאֹהַ֖ב אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here loved implies a relationship of loyalty between Yahweh and Jacob, in which a covenant existed between them. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “as you know, I obligated myself with a covenant to love Jacob”
Jacob
Quote: יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This name Jacob refers here not only to Jacob, but also to all his descendants.
Malachi 1:3
Esau I have hated
Quote: עֵשָׂ֖ו שָׂנֵ֑אתִי (1)Here hated implies that there was no covenant between Yahweh and Esau. However, it does not imply that Yahweh was emotionally against Esau.
Esau
Quote: עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This name Esau refers here not only to Esau, but also to all his descendants.
his mountains
Quote: אֶת־הָרָיו֙ (1)This refers to the hill country of Edom.
and I left his inheritance for the jackals of the wilderness
Quote: וְאֶת־נַחֲלָת֖וֹ לְתַנּ֥וֹת מִדְבָּֽר (1)In the Old Testament, the presence of wild animals such as jackals was a frequent description of land deserted by the people who once lived there.
his inheritance
Quote: נַחֲלָת֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here inheritance stands for the region that Esau’s descendants, the nation of Edom, occupied.
Malachi 1:4
If Edom says
Quote: כִּֽי־תֹאמַ֨ר אֱד֜וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Edom stands for the people of Edom. Alternate translation: “If the people of Edom say”
but I will tear down
Quote: וַאֲנִ֣י אֶהֱר֑וֹס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here tear down stands for “destroy.” Alternate translation: “but I will destroy”
The country of wickedness
Quote: גְּב֣וּל רִשְׁעָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here wickedness stands either for wicked people or for wicked actions. Alternate translation: “country of wicked people”
Malachi 1:5
Your own eyes will see this
Quote: וְעֵינֵיכֶ֖ם תִּרְאֶ֑ינָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here your own eyes stands for the people themselves. Alternate translation: “You yourselves will see this”
Malachi 1:6
General Information:
Yahweh rebukes the priests using an imaginary conversation in which the priests protest that they are doing right and Yahweh tells them what they are doing wrong.
who despise my name
Quote: בּוֹזֵ֣י שְׁמִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here my name stands for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “who treat me as though you hate me”
How have we despised your name
Quote: בַּמֶּ֥ה בָזִ֖ינוּ אֶת־שְׁמֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here the priests are asking a question in order to state that they have not really despised Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have not really despised your name.” or “Tell us how we have despised your name, because we do not think that we have done so.”
Malachi 1:7
polluted food
Quote: לֶ֣חֶם מְגֹאָ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here polluted describes anything that is not suitable to sacrifice to God.
How have we polluted you
Quote: בַּמֶּ֣ה גֵֽאַלְנ֑וּךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here the priests are asking a question in order to state that they have not really polluted Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have not polluted you.” or “Tell us how we have polluted you, because we do not think that we have done so.”
have we polluted you
Quote: גֵֽאַלְנ֑וּךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This expression refers to insulting God by giving him unsuitable sacrifices.
the table of
Quote: שֻׁלְחַ֥ן (1)This refers to an altar.
By saying that the table of Yahweh may be despised
Quote: בֶּאֱמָרְכֶ֕ם שֻׁלְחַ֥ן יְהוָ֖ה נִבְזֶ֥ה הֽוּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
This is the answer that Yahweh gives to the priests, but the full answer is only implied. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “You have polluted me by saying, ‘Yahweh’s table is contemptible.’”
may be despised
Quote: נִבְזֶ֥ה (1)regarded as worthless
Malachi 1:8
When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not evil
Quote: וְכִֽי־תַגִּשׁ֨וּן עִוֵּ֤ר לִזְבֹּ֨חַ֙ אֵ֣ין רָ֔ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here Yahweh uses a question to rebuke the people. Alternate translation: “You know very well that it is evil for you to offer blind animals for sacrifice!”
When you offer the lame and sick, is that not evil
Quote: וְכִ֥י תַגִּ֛ישׁוּ פִּסֵּ֥חַ וְחֹלֶ֖ה אֵ֣ין רָ֑ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here Yahweh uses a question to rebuke the people. Alternate translation: “And you know very well that it is evil for you to offer lame and sick animals!”
Present that to your governor! Will he accept you or will he lift up your face
Quote: הַקְרִיבֵ֨הוּ נָ֜א לְפֶחָתֶ֗ךָ הֲיִּרְצְךָ֙ א֚וֹ הֲיִשָּׂ֣א פָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
The command in the first sentence functions as a hypothetical condition. Alternate translation: “If you present that to your governor, will he accept you or will he lift up your face?”
Will he accept you or will he lift up your face
Quote: הֲיִּרְצְךָ֙ א֚וֹ הֲיִשָּׂ֣א פָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here Yahweh asks this question in order to remind the people that their governor would never accept defective animals from them. Alternate translation: “If you do those things, you know that the governor will not accept you. He will not lift up your face.”
will he lift up your face
Quote: הֲיִשָּׂ֣א פָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Lifting up someone’s face refers to accepting him with favor. Alternate translation: “will he accept you with favor” or “will he agree to help you”
Present that
Quote: הַקְרִיבֵ֨הוּ נָ֜א (1)give as a gift to show respect
Malachi 1:9
Now entreat the face of God, that he may be gracious to us
Quote: וְעַתָּ֛ה חַלּוּ־נָ֥א פְנֵי־אֵ֖ל וִֽיחָנֵ֑נוּ (1)Malachi is no longer speaking for God. He is talking directly to the Israelites; he is criticizing them for daring to think that God will have mercy on them.
entreat the face of God
Quote: חַלּוּ־נָ֥א פְנֵי־אֵ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “face” stands for God and also for his presence. Alternate translation: “keep asking God in his presence”
But … that with such an offering in your hand
Quote: מִיֶּדְכֶם֙ הָ֣יְתָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here in your hand is an idiom that means "with you." Alternate translation: “when you bring such an offering”
But … that with such an offering in your hand, would he lift up any of your faces
Quote: מִיֶּדְכֶם֙ הָ֣יְתָה זֹּ֔את הֲיִשָּׂ֤א מִכֶּם֙ פָּנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here Yahweh is asking a question in order to make a statement of rebuke. Alternate translation: “if you offer unacceptable offerings, he will certainly not lift up your faces.”
But … that with such an offering in your hand
Quote: מִיֶּדְכֶם֙ הָ֣יְתָה זֹּ֔את (1)This difficult phrase in Hebrew is interpreted in many different ways by modern versions.
in your hand
Quote: מִיֶּדְכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here hand stands for the people bringing the offering. Alternate translation: “brought by you”
would he lift up any of your faces
Quote: הֲיִשָּׂ֤א מִכֶּם֙ פָּנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Lifting up someone’s face refers to accepting him with favor. Alternate translation: “would he accept any of you with favor” or “would he agree to help any of you”
Malachi 1:10
Oh, if only there were one
Quote: מִ֤י גַם (1)This expresses great desire.
so that you might not light fires on my altar in vain
Quote: וְלֹֽא־תָאִ֥ירוּ מִזְבְּחִ֖י חִנָּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here light fires on my altar stands for offering sacrifices on Yahweh’s altar. Alternate translation: “so that you might not make fires to burn offerings that I will not accept”
from your hand
Quote: מִיֶּדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here your hand stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you”
Malachi 1:11
from the rising of the sun to its setting
Quote: מִמִּזְרַח־שֶׁ֜מֶשׁ וְעַד־מְבוֹא֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This double expression means “everywhere.”
from the rising of the sun to its setting
Quote: מִמִּזְרַח־שֶׁ֜מֶשׁ וְעַד־מְבוֹא֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This expression is parallel to “among the nations” and “in every place” later in this verse.
my name will be great among the nations
Quote: גָּד֤וֹל שְׁמִי֙ בַּגּוֹיִ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here my name stands for Yahweh’s reputation and honor. Alternate translation: “I will be honored in other nations”
and in every place incense and pure offerings will be offered to my name
Quote: וּבְכָל־מָק֗וֹם מֻקְטָ֥ר מֻגָּ֛שׁ לִשְׁמִ֖י וּמִנְחָ֣ה טְהוֹרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This may be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “in these nations people will offer incense and pure offerings to me in order to worship me”
to my name
Quote: לִשְׁמִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here name stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to me”
Malachi 1:12
and that its fruit, its food
Quote: וְנִיב֖וֹ & אָכְלֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This could mean: (1) “the meat sacrificed on the altar from animals whose other parts the priests should eat” or (2) “the meat sacrificed on the altar.”
Malachi 1:13
and you snort at it
Quote: וְהִפַּחְתֶּ֣ם אוֹת֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This means to show great disrespect by making noises through the nose.
Should I accept this from your hand
Quote: הַאֶרְצֶ֥ה אוֹתָ֛הּ מִיֶּדְכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here Yahweh is asking a question in order to make a statement of rebuke. Alternate translation: “I should certainly not accept this from you!”
from your hand
Quote: מִיֶּדְכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here your hand stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you”
Malachi 1:14
and my name will be feared among the nations
Quote: וּשְׁמִ֖י נוֹרָ֥א בַגּוֹיִֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This may be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “people in the other nations honor my name”
and my name will be feared among the nations
Quote: וּשְׁמִ֖י נוֹרָ֥א בַגּוֹיִֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here my name stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I will be honored”
Malachi 2
Malachi 2 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Levites
The priests are given a strong warning in this chapter. They have not followed the law of Moses and have led the people in the wrong direction. Yahweh has not accepted their sacrifices. (See: priest, priesthood and law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)
Marital unfaithfulness
Because the Jews lived under a covenantal arrangement with Yahweh, their relationship is described using the imagery of a marriage. Marital unfaithfulness indicates a person’s unfaithfulness to Yahweh. (See: covenant and faithful, faithfulness, trustworthy and Metaphor)
Malachi 2:2
you will not lay it on your heart
Quote: לֹא֩ תָשִׂ֨ימוּ עַל־לֵ֜ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
To lay it on your heart refers to considering something to be very important. Alternate translation: “consider it to be very important”
to give honor 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 behind the word honor, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “honor my name”
to my name
Quote: לִשְׁמִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here my name refers to God.
then I will send a curse on you
Quote: וְשִׁלַּחְתִּ֤י בָכֶם֙ אֶת־הַמְּאֵרָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word curse, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “I will curse you”
you are not laying my command on your heart
Quote: אֵינְכֶ֖ם שָׂמִ֥ים עַל־לֵֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This refers to considering God’s command to be very important. Alternate translation: “you are not considering my command to be very important”
Malachi 2:3
and I will spread dung on your faces
Quote: וְזֵרִ֤יתִי פֶ֨רֶשׁ֙ עַל־פְּנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here dung on your faces stands for disgrace. Alternate translation: “I will most certainly put you in deep disgrace; it will be as bad as if I had spread dung on your faces”
the dung from your festivals
Quote: פֶּ֖רֶשׁ חַגֵּיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here festivals stands for the animals that the priests offered in sacrifice at the Israelite festivals. “The dung” probably refers both to the dung that was produced by the animals just before they were slaughtered for sacrifice, and to the dung that was found inside the animals when their bodies were cut apart before being sacrificed. Temple workers had to transport this dung to a place outside of the temple, and probably outside of Jerusalem.
and he will take you away with it
Quote: וְנָשָׂ֥א אֶתְכֶ֖ם אֵלָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This difficult expression can be translated as “God will take you away with it,” that is, with the dung. This expression continues the same metaphor of slaughtering animals for sacrifice, and it can be put in active form. Alternate translation: “they will throw you on the dung pile; God will make sure that they take you away when they remove all the dung”
Malachi 2:4
Levi
Quote: לֵוִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Levi represents his descendants, the tribe of Levi. Alternate translation: “so that my covenant may be with you, the descendants of Levi”
Malachi 2:5
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYahweh speaks of the tribe of Levi as though they are Levi.
My covenant with him was life and peace
Quote: בְּרִיתִ֣י ׀ הָיְתָ֣ה אִתּ֗וֹ הַֽחַיִּים֙ וְהַ֨שָּׁל֔וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the intended results of the covenant are spoken of as if they were the covenant itself. Alternate translation: “The purpose of my covenant with Levi was for the priests to live in prosperity and peace”
it was a covenant of fear, and he feared me
Quote: מוֹרָ֖א וַיִּֽירָאֵ֑נִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
This expression continues the same metaphor, but leaves out an idea that is implied in the text. This can begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “My covenant with him was also fear, and he feared me” or “In my covenant with him, I required him to fear me, and he did fear me”
my name
Quote: שְׁמִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here my name stands for God himself.
Malachi 2:6
and no wrong was found
Quote: וְעַוְלָ֖ה לֹא־נִמְצָ֣א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here finding something stands for that thing existing. Alternate translation: “there was no falsehood”
on his lips
Quote: בִשְׂפָתָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here lips stands for a person’s ability to speak.
He walked with me
Quote: הָלַ֣ךְ אִתִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here walking stands for living, conducting one’s life in a certain way.
in peace and uprightness
Quote: בְּשָׁל֤וֹם וּבְמִישׁוֹר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the idea of location stands for the manner in which Levi lived. Alternate translation: “peacefully and uprightly”
and he turned many away from iniquity
Quote: וְרַבִּ֖ים הֵשִׁ֥יב מֵעָוֺֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here persuading people to stop sinning is spoken of as if it were turning them away from sin. Alternate translation: “he persuaded many people to stop sinning”
Malachi 2:7
For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge
Quote: כִּֽי־שִׂפְתֵ֤י כֹהֵן֙ יִשְׁמְרוּ־דַ֔עַת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here knowledge is spoken of as if it were an object that a priest could keep. In this passage, the idea of “keep knowledge” implies communicating true knowledge about God.
and people should seek instruction
Quote: וְתוֹרָ֖ה יְבַקְשׁ֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here instruction is spoken of as if it were an object that people could look for. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word ****, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “and people should want to be instructed” or “and people should want a priest to teach them truly”
from his mouth
Quote: מִפִּ֑יהוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here mouth stands for what a person says.
Malachi 2:8
But you have turned aside from the way
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ סַרְתֶּ֣ם מִן־הַדֶּ֔רֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The right way to behave is spoken of as if it were the right path to follow, and abandoning right conduct is spoken of as if it were turning away from that path.
You have caused many to stumble
Quote: הִכְשַׁלְתֶּ֥ם רַבִּ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Disobeying God is spoken of as if it were stumbling.
Malachi 2:9
before all the people
Quote: לְכָל־הָעָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This spatial idea stands for the people’s awareness of the priests’ evil behavior.
you have not kept my ways
Quote: אֵֽינְכֶם֙ שֹׁמְרִ֣ים אֶת־דְּרָכַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here ways stands for “desires” and “behavior.” These ways are spoken of as if they were things that could be kept by people. Alternate translation: “you have not followed my desires in how you should live”
but have instead shown partiality in matters of the law
Quote: וְנֹשְׂאִ֥ים פָּנִ֖ים בַּתּוֹרָֽה (1)Alternate translation: “but have set easy standards of behavior for people you like and difficult standards of behavior for people you do not like”
but have instead shown partiality
Quote: וְנֹשְׂאִ֥ים פָּנִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the habit of favoring some people more than others is spoken of as if it were a thing that could be shown to others. Alternate translation: “but have made people aware that you favor some people more than others
Malachi 2:10
General Information:
Here the prophet Malachi begins to speak to his fellow Israelites.
Is there not one father for us all? Has not one God created us
Quote: הֲל֨וֹא אָ֤ב אֶחָד֙ לְכֻלָּ֔נוּ הֲל֛וֹא אֵ֥ל אֶֽחָ֖ד בְּרָאָ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Malachi asks these questions in order to remind his fellow Israelites about what they already know. Alternate translation: “You know that we all have one father, that our God has created a nation out of us.” or “You all know that God is the father of all us Israelites, because he is the one who made our nation.”
Has not one God created us
Quote: הֲל֛וֹא אֵ֥ל אֶֽחָ֖ד בְּרָאָ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This question is meant to express a statement. Alternate translation: “Certainly it is the same God who has created us.”
created us
Quote: בְּרָאָ֑נוּ (1)This probably refers to God forming the Hebrews into a nation.
Why are we faithless each man against his brother, profaning the covenant of our fathers
Quote: מַדּ֗וּעַ נִבְגַּד֙ אִ֣ישׁ בְּאָחִ֔יו לְחַלֵּ֖ל בְּרִ֥ית אֲבֹתֵֽינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Malachi asks this question in order to rebuke his fellow Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We should certainly not mistreat our brothers and disrespect God’s covenant by disobeying his commands, as you have been doing.”
Malachi 2:11
Judah has been faithless
Quote: בָּגְדָ֣ה יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Judah stands for the people in the region of Judah, and the fact that they have been faithless to Yahweh is spoken of as if they were one man named Judah. Alternate translation: “The people of Judah have been faithless”
An abomination has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem
Quote: וְתוֹעֵבָ֛ה נֶעֶשְׂתָ֥ה בְיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל וּבִירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “People have done disgusting things in Israel and in Jerusalem”
For Judah has profaned the sanctuary of Yahweh
Quote: כִּ֣י ׀ חִלֵּ֣ל יְהוּדָ֗ה קֹ֤דֶשׁ יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Judah refers again to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “For the people of Judah have profaned the holy place of Yahweh”
and has married the daughter of a foreign god
Quote: וּבָעַ֖ל בַּת־אֵ֥ל נֵכָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The people of Judah are again referred to as if they were one man named “Judah.” Alternate translation: “have married women from other nations, women who worship idols”
Malachi 2:12
May Yahweh cut off from the tents of Jacob the man who
Quote: יַכְרֵ֨ת יְהוָ֜ה לָאִ֨ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֤ר & מֵאָהֳלֵ֖י יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Destroying something is often spoken of as it were cutting it off from something else. Alternate translation: “May Yahweh destroy anyone in the tents of Jacob who” or “May Yahweh kill anyone in the community of Israel who”
from the tents of Jacob
Quote: מֵאָהֳלֵ֖י יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here tents of Jacob stands for the community of Israel.
Jacob
Quote: יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Jacob stands for all the Israelites, because Jacob was one of the patriarchs from whom the Israelites were descended.
the one who is awake and the one who answers
Quote: עֵ֣ר וְעֹנֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This expression seems to mean “absolutely everyone.”
Malachi 2:13
You cover the altar of Yahweh with tears, with weeping and groaning, because he still does not turn toward the offering or accept it with favor from your hand
Quote: כַּסּ֤וֹת דִּמְעָה֙ אֶת־מִזְבַּ֣ח יְהוָ֔ה בְּכִ֖י וַֽאֲנָקָ֑ה מֵאֵ֣ין ע֗וֹד פְּנוֹת֙ אֶל־הַמִּנְחָ֔ה וְלָקַ֥חַת רָצ֖וֹן מִיֶּדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Malachi sarcastically exaggerates the amount of tears the people cry to show that Yahweh knows that the people do not really feel sad.
with weeping and groaning
Quote: בְּכִ֖י וַֽאֲנָקָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words weeping and groaning share similar meanings and intensify the idea of weeping. Alternate translation: “with great weeping”
because he still does not turn toward the offering
Quote: מֵאֵ֣ין ע֗וֹד פְּנוֹת֙ אֶל־הַמִּנְחָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here turning toward a gift stands for receiving it and showing favor to the giver.
because he still does not turn toward the offering
Quote: מֵאֵ֣ין ע֗וֹד פְּנוֹת֙ אֶל־הַמִּנְחָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This implies that those who are weeping at Yahweh’s altar have offered sacrifices to him.
from your hand
Quote: מִיֶּדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here hand stands for the person giving the offering. Alternate translation: “from you”
Malachi 2:14
Why does he not
Quote: עַל־מָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The full thought, as in Malachi 2:13, is “Why does he not turn toward the offering or accept it with favor from our hand?” Some translators may decide to provide this entire thought in their versions.
the wife of your youth
Quote: אֵ֣שֶׁת נְעוּרֶ֗יךָ (1)Alternate translation: “the woman you married when you were young”
Yahweh was a witness between you and the wife of your youth
Quote: יְהוָה֩ הֵעִ֨יד בֵּינְךָ֜ וּבֵ֣ין ׀ אֵ֣שֶׁת נְעוּרֶ֗יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This statement assumes that this woman is still living.
was a witness between you and the wife of your youth
Quote: הֵעִ֨יד בֵּינְךָ֜ וּבֵ֣ין ׀ אֵ֣שֶׁת נְעוּרֶ֗יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here Yahweh is spoken of as if he was a witness to an agreement between two people, standing between them in order to testify about what they agreed to, in case a dispute arises between them. This sentence also was meant to remind the people that Yahweh would punish any Israelite who broke the covenant of marriage.
even though she was your companion and your wife by covenant
Quote: וְהִ֥יא חֲבֶרְתְּךָ֖ וְאֵ֥שֶׁת בְּרִיתֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This statement implies that many of the Israelites had divorced their wives.
and your wife by covenant
Quote: וְאֵ֥שֶׁת בְּרִיתֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: “and your wife by the covenant of marriage that you agreed to”
Malachi 2:15
Did he not make them one, with a portion of his spirit
Quote: וְלֹא־אֶחָ֣ד עָשָׂ֗ה וּשְׁאָ֥ר ר֨וּחַ֙ ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “He certainly made husband and wife one, with a portion of his spirit.”
godly offspring
Quote: זֶ֣רַע אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)Children who would honor and obey God.
Malachi 2:16
I hate divorce
Quote: שָׂנֵ֣א שַׁלַּ֗ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here divorce stands for the act of divorce, when a man sends away his wife, so as to end his marriage to her. Alternate translation: “I hate it when a man divorces his wife”
and the one who covers his garment with violence
Quote: וְכִסָּ֤ה חָמָס֙ עַל־לְבוּשׁ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This phrase probably means any man who is violent toward his wife.
So guard yourselves in your spirit and do not be faithless
Quote: וְנִשְׁמַרְתֶּ֥ם בְּרוּחֲכֶ֖ם וְלֹ֥א תִבְגֹּֽדוּ (1)Alternate translation: “So be careful to be loyal to your wife”
Malachi 2:17
You have wearied Yahweh
Quote: הוֹגַעְתֶּ֤ם יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh is spoken of as if human behavior could make him tired, but God cannot grow weary in a physical or emotional sense. This statement probably means that Yahweh has become offended or exasperated. Alternate translation: “You have offended Yahweh”
How have we wearied him
Quote: בַּמָּ֣ה הוֹגָ֑עְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This question is meant to deny that the people have done any wrong. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have certainly not wearied him.”
By saying
Quote: בֶּאֱמָרְכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The complete idea here is, “You have wearied him by saying.” This is the prophet’s answer to the rhetorical question.
in the eyes of
Quote: בְּעֵינֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “in the opinion” or “in the judgment”
Where is the God of justice
Quote: אַיֵּ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י הַמִּשְׁפָּֽט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The priests ask this question in order to claim either that Yahweh does not care whether people do evil or not, or that he never punishes evildoers. Alternate translation: “God certainly does not punish evil people!”
is the God of justice
Quote: אֱלֹהֵ֥י הַמִּשְׁפָּֽט (1)the God who punishes evildoers justly
Malachi 3
Malachi 3 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Messiah
There are several prophecies in this chapter concerning the Messiah and the one who comes before the Messiah. At times, this chapter switches between prophesying about the first coming of the Messiah and the second coming of the Messiah without formal divisions between them. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and Christ, Messiah)
Important figures of speech in this chapter
Rhetorical questions
Several rhetorical questions are used in this chapter to convince the reader of the truth of what he is saying and of their sin. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)
Malachi 3:1
General Information:
Yahweh begins speaking again to the people of Israel in verse 1, but the prophet Malachi begins speaking in verse 2.
Behold, I
Quote: הִנְנִ֤י (1)Alternate translation: “Look” or “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
and he will prepare the way before me
Quote: וּפִנָּה־דֶ֖רֶךְ לְפָנָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here getting people ready to welcome Yahweh is spoken of as if a road were being cleared for Yahweh to travel on.
Malachi 3:2
But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears
Quote: וּמִ֤י מְכַלְכֵּל֙ אֶת־י֣וֹם בּוֹא֔וֹ וּמִ֥י הָעֹמֵ֖ד בְּהֵרָֽאוֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
These rhetorical questions imply that no one will be able to resist Yahweh when he comes. They can be combined into one statement. Alternate translation: “However, no one will be able to resist Yahweh when he comes to judge them.”
the day of his coming
Quote: אֶת־י֣וֹם בּוֹא֔וֹ (1)Here “day” stands for “time.” Alternate translation: “the time when he comes”
can stand
Quote: הָעֹמֵ֖ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here standing represents resisting someone’s attack or accusations.
For he will be like the fire of the refiner and like the soap of the fullers
Quote: כִּֽי־הוּא֙ כְּאֵ֣שׁ מְצָרֵ֔ף וּכְבֹרִ֖ית מְכַבְּסִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
This sentence gives the reason why no one will be able to resist God when he comes. God’s power to judge the people and to stop them from sinning is spoken of as if it were the power of strong soap to clean clothes, or the power of fire to melt an object. These are ways of saying that God’s power to do these things cannot be stopped.
Malachi 3:3
He will sit
Quote: וְיָשַׁ֨ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Here sitting implies the action of a metalworker, who sits down in order to purify small amounts of gold or silver.
and he will purify the sons of Levi
Quote: וְטִהַ֤ר אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־לֵוִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Forgiving the sons of Levi and persuading them not to sin any longer is spoken of as if it were purifying metal. Alternate translation: “he will correct the sons of Levi and forgive them for having sinned”
the sons of Levi
Quote: בְּנֵֽי־לֵוִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here sons refers to descendants. The male descendants of Levi were the priests and workers in the temple.
He will refine them like gold and silver
Quote: וְזִקַּ֣ק אֹתָ֔ם כַּזָּהָ֖ב וְכַכָּ֑סֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Here persuading people not to sin any longer is spoken of as if a metalworker were making gold and silver more pure.
and they will bring offerings in righteousness to Yahweh
Quote: וְהָיוּ֙ לַֽיהוָ֔ה מַגִּישֵׁ֥י מִנְחָ֖ה בִּצְדָקָֽה (1)Here in righteousness means “motivated by righteous desires to worship God.” Alternate translation: “they will bring acceptable offerings to Yahweh in order to worship Yahweh”
Malachi 3:4
the offering of Judah and Jerusalem
Quote: מִנְחַ֥ת יְהוּדָ֖ה וִירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Judah and Jerusalem stands for the people in those places. Alternate translation: “the offerings brought by 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-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the offering was once pleasing to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “as it was in the distant past”
Malachi 3:5
Then I will approach you for judgment
Quote: וְקָרַבְתִּ֣י אֲלֵיכֶם֮ לַמִּשְׁפָּט֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here judgment refers to the act of judging. Alternate translation: “Then I will approach you in order to judge you”
and against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages
Quote: וּבְעֹשְׁקֵ֣י שְׂכַר־שָׂ֠כִיר (1)Alternate translation: “and against those who cause the hired worker to suffer by not paying him for his work”
against those who turn aside the foreigner
Quote: וּמַטֵּי־גֵר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
That is, turn aside the foreigner from gaining his rights. Depriving people of their rights is spoken of as if it were physically turning them away from oneself. Perhaps the idea is turning away someone who comes for a wrong to be set right. Alternate translation: “against those who deny foreigners living in Israel the rights that they should have”
Malachi 3:6
have not come to an end
Quote: לֹ֥א כְלִיתֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: “have not perished”
Malachi 3:7
From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them
Quote: לְמִימֵ֨י אֲבֹתֵיכֶ֜ם סַרְתֶּ֤ם מֵֽחֻקַּי֙ וְלֹ֣א שְׁמַרְתֶּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Disobeying God’s statutes is spoken of as if it were turning away from them. Alternate translation: “You have disobeyed my statutes ever since the days of your ancestors”
Return to me, and I will return to you
Quote: שׁ֤וּבוּ אֵלַי֙ וְאָשׁ֣וּבָה אֲלֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here loving each other and being faithful to each other is spoken of as if it were returning to each other. Alternate translation: “Love me and honor me, and I will always help you”
How will we return
Quote: בַּמֶּ֥ה נָשֽׁוּב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The people ask this question in order to claim that they have never stopped obeying God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have never gone away from you, so we cannot return to you.” or “We have never gone away from you, so it makes no sense to speak of us as returning to you.”
Malachi 3:8
Will a man rob God
Quote: הֲיִקְבַּ֨ע אָדָ֜ם אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This question implies that the idea of robbing God is very wicked. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “A man should certainly not rob God.”
Will a man rob God
Quote: הֲיִקְבַּ֨ע אָדָ֜ם אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
God speaks of himself in the third person Alternate translation: “No one should ever rob me.”
How have we robbed you
Quote: בַּמֶּ֣ה קְבַעֲנ֑וּךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This question implies that the people do not think they have robbed God. Alternate translation: “We have certainly not robbed you.”
In tithes and offerings
Quote: הַֽמַּעֲשֵׂ֖ר וְהַתְּרוּמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This reply from Yahweh implies a fuller answer. Alternate translation: “You have robbed me by withholding from me your tithes and offerings”
Malachi 3:9
You are cursed with a curse
Quote: בַּמְּאֵרָה֙ אַתֶּ֣ם נֵֽאָרִ֔ים (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: “I have certainly cursed you”
for you are robbing me, the whole nation of you
Quote: וְאֹתִ֖י אַתֶּ֣ם קֹבְעִ֑ים הַגּ֖וֹי כֻּלּֽוֹ (1)Here nation stands for the people to whom Yahweh is speaking. Alternate translation: “for all of you in the whole nation are robbing me”
Malachi 3:10
the full tithe
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־הַֽמַּעֲשֵׂ֜ר (1)Alternate translation: “all the tithes”
in my house
Quote: בְּבֵיתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here house stands for the temple. Alternate translation: “in my temple”
and test me now in this,” … if I do not open for you the windows of heaven
Quote: וּבְחָנ֤וּנִי נָא֙ בָּזֹ֔את & אִם־לֹ֧א אֶפְתַּ֣ח לָכֶ֗ם אֵ֚ת אֲרֻבּ֣וֹת הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the command test me stands for something that the people can do and should do: “if you test me.” This can be divided into two sentences also. Alternate translation: “And if you test me … I will open up the windows of heaven” or “And you should test me … If you do, I will open up the windows of heaven”
Malachi 3:12
All the nations will call you blessed
Quote: וְאִשְּׁר֥וּ אֶתְכֶ֖ם כָּל־הַגּוֹיִ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here to be called blessed stands for being blessed. Alternate translation: “All the nations will know that you have been blessed”
All the nations
Quote: כָּל־הַגּוֹיִ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This expression stands for the people in all the nations. Alternate translation: “The people in all the nations”
a land of delight
Quote: אֶ֣רֶץ חֵ֔פֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here delight stands for the condition in which the inhabitants of a land take delight in their land.
Malachi 3:13
General Information:
These verses begin a new section in the book. Here Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.
Your words against me have been strong
Quote: חָזְק֥וּ עָלַ֛י דִּבְרֵיכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here strong stands for “harsh” or “terrible.”
Your words against me have been strong
Quote: חָזְק֥וּ עָלַ֛י דִּבְרֵיכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here Your words stands for “What you have said.” Alternate translation: “What you have said about me is terrible”
What have we said among ourselves against you
Quote: מַה־נִּדְבַּ֖רְנוּ עָלֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The people ask this question in order to claim that they have said nothing against God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have not said anything among ourselves against you.”
Malachi 3:14
What profit is it that we have kept his requirements or walked mournfully before Yahweh of hosts
Quote: וּמַה־בֶּ֗צַע כִּ֤י שָׁמַ֨רְנוּ֙ מִשְׁמַרְתּ֔וֹ וְכִ֤י הָלַ֨כְנוּ֙ קְדֹ֣רַנִּ֔ית מִפְּנֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה צְבָאֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The people ask this question among themselves in order to make a statement. Alternate translation: “It is useless that we have kept his requirements and walked mournfully before Yahweh of hosts.”
walked mournfully before Yahweh of hosts
Quote: הָלַ֨כְנוּ֙ קְדֹ֣רַנִּ֔ית מִפְּנֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה צְבָאֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here walked mournfully stands for “behaved in a sorrowful manner,” probably in order to indicate sorrow over their sins.
before Yahweh of hosts
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה צְבָאֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here this expression refers to God being aware of what the people were doing.
Malachi 3:15
we call the arrogant blessed
Quote: אֲנַ֖חְנוּ מְאַשְּׁרִ֣ים זֵדִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here to be called blessed stands for being blessed. Alternate translation: “we say that the arrogant are blessed”
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Quote: נַ֖חְנוּ מְאַשְּׁרִ֣ים זֵדִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we say that the arrogant are well off”
and escape
Quote: וַיִּמָּלֵֽטוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
That is, “and they escape God’s punishment.”
Malachi 3:16
General Information:
The event described here may have taken place after the godly people in Israel repented of their sins.
and a book of remembrance was written before him about those who feared Yahweh
Quote: וַ֠יִּכָּתֵב סֵ֣פֶר זִכָּר֤וֹן לְפָנָיו֙ לְיִרְאֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)This could mean: (1) the Israelites wrote a book so they would remember what they had promised and listed the names of people who feared Yahweh or (2) Yahweh caused someone in heaven to write a book with the names of people who feared him.
a book of remembrance
Quote: סֵ֣פֶר זִכָּר֤וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This expression refers to any book that helps people remember important things, such as events or people who lived in the past.
and honored his name
Quote: וּלְחֹשְׁבֵ֖י שְׁמֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here his name stands for God himself.
Malachi 3:17
They will be mine
Quote: וְהָ֣יוּ לִ֗י (1)Alternate translation: “They will be my people”
my treasured possession
Quote: סְגֻלָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here possession refers to one’s personal property. This idea can be expressed with a verb. Alternate translation: “those who will belong completely to me”
in the day
Quote: לַיּ֕וֹם (1)the time when Yahweh will judge and punish the rebellious Israelites, giving victory to the faithful Israelites
Malachi 3:18
you will distinguish between
Quote: וּרְאִיתֶ֔ם בֵּ֥ין (1)Alternate translation: “you will see a difference between” or “you will treat differently”
Malachi 4
Malachi 4 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Last days
Although the Jews may have hoped these prophecies referenced a time in the near future to them, the prophecies of this chapter exclusively relate to the last days. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and last day, last days, latter days)
Malachi 4:1
behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)Alternate translation: “look” or “listen” or “pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
the day is coming, burning like a furnace
Quote: הַיּוֹם֙ בָּ֔א בֹּעֵ֖ר כַּתַּנּ֑וּר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The disaster occurring at this time is spoken of as if the day itself were burning. God’s judgment is often spoken of as if it were a fire.
the arrogant … the evildoers
Quote: זֵדִ֜ים & עֹשֵׂ֤ה רִשְׁעָה֙ (1)See how you translated these words in Malachi 3:15.
when all the arrogant and all the evildoers will become stubble
Quote: וְהָי֨וּ כָל־זֵדִ֜ים וְכָל־עֹשֵׂ֤ה רִשְׁעָה֙ קַ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
These people are spoken of as if they will become dried-up plants fit only for being burned. It is common for the Bible to speak of people as if they were plants or trees. Alternate translation: “all the arrogant and all the evildoers will burn up like dry plants”
The day that is coming will burn them up
Quote: וְלִהַ֨ט אֹתָ֜ם הַיּ֣וֹם הַבָּ֗א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here The day stands for the events that will occur on that day. Alternate translation: “On that day I will burn them up”
it will leave them neither root nor branch
Quote: לֹא־יַעֲזֹ֥ב לָהֶ֖ם שֹׁ֥רֶשׁ וְעָנָֽף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This expression continues to speak of people as if they were plants or trees. Alternate translation: “nothing will be left”
it will leave them neither root nor branch
Quote: לֹא־יַעֲזֹ֥ב לָהֶ֖ם שֹׁ֥רֶשׁ וְעָנָֽף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Being deprived of all roots and branches stands for being completely killed off. Alternate translation: “nothing will be left”
Malachi 4:2
for you who fear my name
Quote: לָכֶ֜ם יִרְאֵ֤י שְׁמִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here my name stands for Yahweh himself.
But … the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings
Quote: וְזָרְחָ֨ה & שֶׁ֣מֶשׁ צְדָקָ֔ה וּמַרְפֵּ֖א בִּכְנָפֶ֑יהָ (1)This could mean: (1) Yahweh, who always acts righteously, will come and heal his people on that day or (2) on that day Yahweh will reveal the people’s righteousness and heal them.
with healing in its wings
Quote: וּמַרְפֵּ֖א בִּכְנָפֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of healing, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the ability to heal in its wings”
with healing in its wings
Quote: וּמַרְפֵּ֖א בִּכְנָפֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This could mean: (1) the act of healing someone is spoken of as if it were an object that the sun carried to people by means of its wings or (2) the healing takes place under the wings, that is, in the security God gives his people.
in its wings
Quote: בִּכְנָפֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
It was common in the Ancient Near East to speak of the sun as if it had wings, with which it moved across the sky. This could mean: (1) the sun’s life-giving rays of light are spoken of as if they were its wings or (2) the wings are said to cover God’s people so as to give them peace and safey.
You will go out, and you will leap like calves from the stall
Quote: וִֽיצָאתֶ֥ם וּפִשְׁתֶּ֖ם כְּעֶגְלֵ֥י מַרְבֵּֽק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Here the redeemed people of Yahweh are spoken of as if they were young bulls released from their stalls, allowed to go out into their pasture.
Malachi 4:3
And you will trample down 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/figs-metaphor
Here the victory of God’s people is spoken of as if they were walking over the burned bodies of their enemies.
they will be ashes
Quote: יִהְי֣וּ אֵ֔פֶר (1)The Israelites’ enemies are spoken of as having been burned to ashes (Malachi 4:1).
Malachi 4:4
Remember the law of my servant Moses that I commanded him
Quote: זִכְר֕וּ תּוֹרַ֖ת מֹשֶׁ֣ה עַבְדִּ֑י אֲשֶׁר֩ צִוִּ֨יתִי אוֹת֤וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word law, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “taught.” Alternate translation: “Remember what I taught my servant Moses”
Remember
Quote: זִכְר֕וּ (1)Here Remember stands for “Think about” and, at the same time, “Obey.”
at Horeb
Quote: בְחֹרֵב֙ (1)Horeb is another name for Sinai.
all Israel
Quote: כָּל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here all Israel is a reference to all the people in the nation of Israel.
the statutes
Quote: חֻקִּ֖ים (1)These are the laws that God gave Israel for all time.
and the rulings
Quote: וּמִשְׁפָּטִֽים (1)These are legal decisions meant to make clear how the general statutes apply to everyday life.
Malachi 4:5
the coming of the great and fearful day of Yahweh
Quote: בּ֚וֹא י֣וֹם יְהוָ֔ה הַגָּד֖וֹל וְהַנּוֹרָֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the occurrence of this day is spoken of as if it were coming. Alternate translation: “before the great and fearful day of Yahweh happens”
the great and fearful day of Yahweh
Quote: י֣וֹם יְהוָ֔ה הַגָּד֖וֹל וְהַנּוֹרָֽא (1)This expression refers to any time in which Yahweh acts decisively.
Malachi 4:6
He will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers
Quote: וְהֵשִׁ֤יב לֵב־אָבוֹת֙ עַל־בָּנִ֔ים וְלֵ֥ב בָּנִ֖ים עַל־אֲבוֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here changing how people think is spoken of as if it were turning their hearts.