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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The declaration of the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of Malachi (0)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”
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Quote: Yahweh (0)This 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.
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Quote: by the hand of Malachi (0)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” (See: Idiom)
Malachi 1:2
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Quote: How have you loved us? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
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Quote: Was not Esau Jacob’s brother? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
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Quote: declares Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh has solemnly said this”
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Quote: I have loved Jacob (0)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” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
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Quote: I have loved Jacob (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This name “Jacob” refers here not only to Jacob, but also to all his descendants. (See: Synecdoche)
Malachi 1:3
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Quote: Esau I have hated (0)Here “hated” implies that there was no covenant between Yahweh and Esau. However, it does not imply that Yahweh was emotionally against Esau.
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Quote: Esau I have hated (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This name “Esau” refers here not only to Esau, but also to all his descendants. (See: Synecdoche)
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Quote: his mountains (0)This refers to the hill country of Edom.
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Quote: I have made his inheritance a place for the jackals of the wilderness (0)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.
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Quote: his inheritance (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “inheritance” stands for the region that Esau’s descendants, the nation of Edom, occupied. (See: Metaphor)
Malachi 1:4
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Quote: If Edom says (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Edom” stands for the people of Edom. Alternate translation: “If the people of Edom say” (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: I will throw down (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “throw down” stands for “destroy.” Alternate translation: “I will destroy” (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: country of wickedness (0)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” (See: Abstract Nouns)
Malachi 1:5
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Quote: Your own eyes will see this (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “your own eyes” stands for the people themselves. Alternate translation: “You yourselves will see this” (See: Synecdoche)
Malachi 1:6
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Quote: General Information: (0)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.
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Quote: despise my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “my name” stands for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “treat me as though you hate me” (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How have we despised your name? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
Malachi 1:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: polluted bread (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “polluted” describes anything that is not suitable to sacrifice to God. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How have we polluted you? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
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Quote: polluted you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This expression refers to insulting God by giving him unsuitable sacrifices. (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: table (0)This refers to an altar.
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Quote: By saying that Yahweh’s table is contemptible. (0)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.’” (See: Ellipsis)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: contemptible (0)regarded as worthless
Malachi 1:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not evil? (0)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!” (See: Rhetorical Question)
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Quote: When you offer the lame and sick, is that not evil? (0)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!” (See: Rhetorical Question)
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Quote: Present that to your governor! Will he accept you or will he lift up your face? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
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?” (See: Imperatives — Other Uses and Hypothetical Situations)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Will he accept you or will he lift up your face? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will he lift up your face (0)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” (See: Idiom)
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Quote: Present (0)give as a gift to show respect
Malachi 1:9
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Quote: Now you keep asking the face of God, that he may be gracious to us (0)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.
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Quote: keep asking the face of God (0)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” (See: Synecdoche)
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Quote: with such an offering in your hand, would he lift up any of your faces? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question and Idiom)
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Quote: with such an offering in your hand (0)This difficult phrase in Hebrew is interpreted in many different ways by modern versions.
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Quote: in your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “hand” stands for the people bringing the offering. Alternate translation: “brought by you” (See: Synecdoche)
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Quote: would he lift up any of your faces (0)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” (See: Idiom)
Malachi 1:10
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Quote: Oh, if only (0)This expresses great desire.
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Quote: so that you might not light fires on my altar in vain (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: from your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “your hand” stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you” (See: Synecdoche)
Malachi 1:11
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Quote: from the rising of the sun to its setting (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This double expression means “everywhere.” It is parallel to “among the nations” and “in every place” (See: Merism and Parallelism)
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Quote: my name will be great among the nations (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: in every place incense and pure offerings will be offered in my name (0)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” (See: Active or Passive)
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Quote: in my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “name” stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: Metonymy)
Malachi 1:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: its fruit, its food (0)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
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Quote: snort at it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
show great disrespect by making noises through the nose (See: Idiom)
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Quote: Should I accept this from your hand? (0)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!” (See: Rhetorical Question)
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Quote: from your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “your hand” stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you” (See: Synecdoche)
Malachi 1:14
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Quote: my name will be honored among the nations (0)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” (See: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my name will be honored (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “my name” stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I will be honored” (See: Metonymy)
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
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Quote: lay it on your heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This refers to considering something to be very important. Alternate translation: “consider it to be very important” (See: Idiom)
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Quote: give honor to my name (0)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” (See: Abstract Nouns)
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Quote: my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here this expression refers to God. (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: I will send a curse on you (0)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” (See: Abstract Nouns)
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Quote: you are not laying my command on your heart (0)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” (See: Idiom)
Malachi 2:3
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Quote: I will spread dung on your faces (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: the dung from your festivals (0)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. (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will take you away with it (0)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” (See: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will take you away with it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This could mean: (1) God will punish the unfaithful priests by killing them and causing their bodies to be carried away on the piles of animal dung, or (2) God will punish the unfaithful priests in such a horrible way that it will be as if their bodies had been carried away with the animal dung. (See: Metaphor)
Malachi 2:4
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Quote: Levi (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
Malachi 2:5
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Quote: General Information: (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
General Information:
Yahweh speaks of the tribe of Levi as though they are Levi. (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: My covenant with him was life and peace (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: fear, and he feared me (0)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” (See: Ellipsis)
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Quote: in awe of my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “my name” stands for God himself. (See: Metonymy)
Malachi 2:6
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Quote: nothing false was found (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here finding something stands for that thing existing. Alternate translation: “there was no falsehood” (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: on his lips (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “lips” stands for a person’s ability to speak. (See: Metonymy)
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Quote: He walked with me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here walking stands for living, conducting one’s life in a certain way. (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: in peace and uprightness (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: he turned many away from sin (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: lips (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “lips” stands for a person’s ability to speak. (See: Metaphor)
Malachi 2:7
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Quote: For a priest’s lips should keep knowledge (0)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. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seek instruction (0)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: “want to be instructed” or “want a priest to teach them truly” (See: Abstract Nouns)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from his mouth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “mouth” stands for what a person says. (See: Metonymy)
Malachi 2:8
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Quote: you have turned away from the true path (0)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. (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: You have caused many to stumble (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Disobeying God is spoken of as if it were stumbling. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You have caused many to stumble with respect to the law (0)The expression “with respect to the law” gives the context for the “stumbling.” Alternate translation: “You have caused many to disobey the law”
Malachi 2:9
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Quote: before all the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This spatial idea stands for the people’s awareness of the priests’ evil behavior. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: kept my ways (0)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: “followed my desires in how you should live” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: shown partiality with regard to the instruction (0)Alternate translation: “set easy standards of behavior for people you like and difficult standards of behavior for people you do not like”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: shown partiality (0)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: “made people aware that you favor some people more than others (See: Metaphor)
Malachi 2:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: General Information: (0)General Information:
Here the prophet Malachi begins to speak to his fellow Israelites.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is there not one father for us all? Has not one God created us? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
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.” (See: Background Information and Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Has not one God created us? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: created us (0)This probably refers to God forming the Hebrews into a nation.
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Quote: Why are we faithless each man against his brother, profaning the covenant of our fathers? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
Malachi 2:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Judah has been faithless (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: A disgusting thing has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem (0)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” (See: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For Judah has profaned the holy place of Yahweh (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has married the daughter of a foreign god (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
Malachi 2:12
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Quote: May Yahweh cut off from the tents of Jacob the man who (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the tents of Jacob (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “tents of Jacob” stands for the community of Israel. (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: Jacob (0)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. (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the one who is awake and the one who answers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This expression seems to mean “absolutely everyone.” (See: Idiom)
Malachi 2:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You cover the altar of Yahweh with tears (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This sarcastically exaggerates the amount of tears the people cry to show that Yahweh knows that the people do not really feel sad. (See: Hyperbole and Irony)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with weeping and sighing (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “weeping” and “sighing” share similar meanings and intensify the idea of weeping. Alternate translation: “with great weeping” (See: Doublet)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: does not turn toward the offering (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here turning toward a gift stands for receiving it and showing favor to the giver. (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: does not turn toward the offering (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This implies that those who are weeping at Yahweh’s altar have offered sacrifices to him. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “hand” stands for the person giving the offering. Alternate translation: “from you” (See: Synecdoche)
Malachi 2:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why does he not? (0)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. (See: Ellipsis)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the wife of your youth (0)Alternate translation: “the woman you married when you were young”
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Quote: Yahweh was a witness between you and the wife of your youth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This statement assumes that this woman is still living. (See: Background Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a witness between you and the wife of your youth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here a witness to an agreement between two people is thought of as standing between them in order to testify about what they agreed to, in case a dispute arises between the two people. This sentence also was meant to remind the people that Yahweh would punish any Israelite who broke the covenant of marriage. (See: Metaphor and Background Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: she was your companion and your wife by covenant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This statement implies that many of the Israelites had divorced their wives. (See: Background Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by covenant (0)Alternate translation: “by the covenant of marriage that you agreed to”
Malachi 2:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Did he not make them one, with a portion of his spirit? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: make them one (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This expression implies making husband and wife one flesh. Alternate translation: “make husband and wife one flesh” (See: Background Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: an offspring from God (0)Children who would honor and obey God.
Malachi 2:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I hate divorce (0)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” (See: Abstract Nouns)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the one who covers his garment with violence (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This phrase probably means any man who is violent toward his wife. (See: Idiom)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So guard yourselves in your spirit and do not be faithless (0)Alternate translation: “So be careful to be loyal to your wife”
Malachi 2:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You have wearied Yahweh (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How have we wearied him? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: By saying (0)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. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the eyes (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Where is the God of justice? (0)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!” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the God of justice (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: General Information: (0)General Information:
Yahweh begins speaking again to the people of Israel in verse 1, but the prophet Malachi begins speaking in verse 2.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See (0)Alternate translation: “Look” or “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will prepare the way before me (0)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. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then the Lord, whom you seek & The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight (0)Some modern versions translate this in a way that implies that these two expressions refer to the same person. Other modern versions leave this matter ambiguous. We recommend that translations leave this matter ambiguous, as the ULT and UST do.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The messenger of the covenant (0)Almost all versions leave ambiguous the sense of this expression. But translators may need to make explicit the relationship between “messenger” and “the covenant.” The UST presents “the messenger” as one promised by the covenant that Yahweh had with Israel. Another choice is to present the messenger as a person who will either confirm that covenant or announce a new covenant.
Malachi 3:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But who will be able to endure the day of his coming? Who will be able to stand when he appears? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the day of his coming (0)Here “day” stands for “time.” Alternate translation: “the time when he comes”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: be able to stand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here standing represents resisting someone’s attack or accusations. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For he will be like a refiner’s fire and like laundry soap (0)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. (See: Simile)
Malachi 3:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will purify the sons of Levi (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
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Quote: the sons of Levi (0)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. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He will sit (0)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. It also implies the action of a king, who sits down to judge people and give decrees. (See: Simile and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He will refine them like gold and silver (0)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. (See: Simile)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they will bring offerings of righteousness to Yahweh (0)Here “of 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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the offering of Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” and “Jerusalem” stand for the people in those places. Alternate translation: “the offerings brought by the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as in the days of old, and as in ancient years (0)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” (See: Parallelism)
Malachi 3:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then I will approach you for judgment (0)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” (See: Abstract Nouns)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: oppress the hired worker in his wages (0)Alternate translation: “cause the hired worker to suffer by not paying him for his work”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turn away the foreigner (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
That is, turning away 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: “deny foreigners living in Israel the rights that they should have” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Metaphor)
Malachi 3:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: have not come to an end (0)Alternate translation: “have not perished”
Malachi 3:7
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Quote: From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Return to me, and I will return to you (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How will we return? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
Malachi 3:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Would a person rob God? (0)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. God speaks of himself in the third person Alternate translation: “A man should certainly not rob God.” or “No one should ever rob me.” (See: Rhetorical Question and First, Second or Third Person)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How have we robbed you? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: In tithes and offerings (0)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” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
Malachi 3:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You are cursed with a curse (0)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” (See: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you are robbing me, the whole nation (0)Here “nation” stands for the people to whom Yahweh is speaking. Alternate translation: “all of you in the whole nation are robbing me”
Malachi 3:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the full tithe (0)Alternate translation: “all the tithes”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “house” stands for the temple. Alternate translation: “my temple” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: and test me now in this & if I do not open to you the windows of heaven (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
Malachi 3:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the nations will call you blessed (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the nations (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a land of delight (0)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. (See: Abstract Nouns)
Malachi 3:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: General Information: (0)General Information:
These verses begin a new section in the book. Here Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Your words against me have been strong (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “strong” stands for “harsh” or “terrible.” And “Your words” stands for “What you have said.” Alternate translation: “What you have said about me is terrible” (See: Metaphor and Abstract Nouns)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What have we said among ourselves against you? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
Malachi 3:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What profit is it that we have kept his requirements or walked mournfully before Yahweh of hosts? (0)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.” (See: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: walked mournfully before Yahweh of hosts (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “walk mournfully” stands for “behave in a sorrowful manner,” probably in order to indicate sorrow over their sins. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: before Yahweh of hosts (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here this expression refers to God being aware of what the people were doing. (See: Metaphor)
Malachi 3:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: we call the arrogant blessed (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: we call the arrogant blessed (0)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” (See: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: escape (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
That is, “they escape God’s punishment.” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
Malachi 3:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: General Information: (0)General Information:
The event described here may have taken place after the godly people in Israel repented of their sins.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a book of remembrance was written before him about those who feared Yahweh (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: book of remembrance (0)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. (See: Abstract Nouns)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: honored his name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “his name” stands for God himself. (See: Metonymy)
Malachi 3:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They will be mine (0)Alternate translation: “They will be my people”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my own treasured possession (0)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: “they will belong completely to me” (See: Abstract Nouns)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I act (0)the time when Yahweh will judge and punish the rebellious Israelites, giving victory to the faithful Israelites
Malachi 3:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: distinguish between (0)Alternate translation: “see a difference between” or “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
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Quote: see (0)Alternate translation: “look” or “listen” or “pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the day is coming, burning like a furnace (0)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. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: arrogant & evildoers (0)See how you translated these wordsd in Malachi 3:15.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the arrogant and all the evildoers will become stubble (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The day that is coming will burn them up (0)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” (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: it will leave them neither root nor branch (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This expression continues to speak of people as if they were plants or trees. So being deprived of all roots and branches stands for being completely killed off. Alternate translation: “nothing will be left” (See: Merism and Metaphor)
Malachi 4:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you who fear my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “my name” stands for Yahweh himself. (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: healing in its wings (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
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. (See: Abstract Nouns and Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: wings (0)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. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You will go out, and you will leap like calves from the stall (0)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. (See: Simile)
Malachi 4:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will trample down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet (0)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. (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they will be ashes (0)The Israelites’ enemies are spoken of as having been burned to ashes (Malachi 4:1).
Malachi 4:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Remember the teaching of my servant Moses that I gave him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word teaching, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “taught.” Alternate translation: “Remember what I taught my servant Moses” (See: Abstract Nouns)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Remember (0)Here “Remember” stands for “Think about” and, at the same time, “Obey.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Horeb (0)This is another name for Sinai.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “all Israel” is a reference to all the people in the nation of Israel. (See: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the statutes (0)These are the laws that God gave Israel for all time.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the rulings (0)These are legal decisions meant to make clear how the general statutes apply to everyday life.
Malachi 4:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the coming of the great and fearful day of Yahweh (0)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” (See: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the great and fearful day of Yahweh (0)This expression refers to any time in which Yahweh acts decisively.
Malachi 4:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He will turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here changing how people think is spoken of as if it were turning their hearts. (See: Metaphor)