unfoldingWord_en_tn/en_tn_39-MAL.tsv

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2MALfrontintroaxt40# Introduction to Malachi<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of Malachi<br><br>1. The word of Yahweh comes to Israel (1:1)<br>1. Yahweh loves Israel and rejects Esau (Edom) (1:25)<br>1. A message against the priests (1:62:9)<br>1. A message against Judah: they have broken faith by divorcing and intermarrying (2:1016)<br>1. A message about the day of refining (2:173:6)<br>1. A message about tithing (3:712)<br>1. A message about those who others treated shamefully, but who were faithful to Yahweh (3:1318)<br>1. Yahweh will punish the wicked and send Elijah before the “great and terrible day of Yahweh” (4:56)<br><br>### What is the Book of Malachi about?<br><br>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.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Malachi?<br><br>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.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What was meant by the day of Yahweh?<br><br>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: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
3MAL1introb7vm0# Malachi 1 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Yahweh of hosts<br>This is an important title used in this chapter. It reminds the reader of the great power Yahweh has to punish the nations. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/yahwehofhosts]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br>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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
4MAL11qm8z0The declaration of the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of MalachiThis can be expressed as a statement. “This is the declaration of the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of Malachi”
5MAL11x4vm0YahwehThis 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.
6MAL11lx85figs-idiom0by the hand of MalachiThe 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
7MAL12vb2mfigs-rquestion0How have you loved us?This question indicates that the people doubt the truth of what God says. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have not shown that you love us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
8MAL12cy61figs-rquestion0Was not Esau Jacobs brother?This question, a reply of Yahweh reminding the people of their nations history, may also be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that Esau was Jacobs brother.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
9MAL12l68t0declares YahwehAlternate translation: “Yahweh has solemnly said this”
10MAL12ef9gfigs-explicit0I have loved JacobHere “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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
11MAL12j176figs-synecdoche0I have loved JacobThis name “Jacob” refers here not only to Jacob, but also to all his descendants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
12MAL13xf470Esau I have hatedHere “hated” implies that there was no covenant between Yahweh and Esau. However, it does not imply that Yahweh was emotionally against Esau.
13MAL13e38qfigs-synecdoche0Esau I have hatedThis name “Esau” refers here not only to Esau, but also to all his descendants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
14MAL13t9bu0his mountainsThis refers to the hill country of Edom.
15MAL13q6yq0I have made his inheritance a place for the jackals of the wildernessIn 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.
16MAL13rff9figs-metaphor0his inheritanceHere “inheritance” stands for the region that Esaus descendants, the nation of Edom, occupied. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
17MAL14z8qdfigs-metonymy0If Edom saysHere “Edom” stands for the people of Edom. Alternate translation: “If the people of Edom say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
18MAL14x6krfigs-metonymy0I will throw downHere “throw down” stands for “destroy.” Alternate translation: “I will destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
19MAL14zv9vfigs-abstractnouns0country of wickednessHere “wickedness” stands either for wicked people or for wicked actions. Alternate translation: “country of wicked people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
20MAL15bq14figs-synecdoche0Your own eyes will see thisHere “your own eyes” stands for the people themselves. Alternate translation: “You yourselves will see this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
21MAL16zu710General 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.
22MAL16u3vjfigs-metonymy0despise my nameHere “my name” stands for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “treat me as though you hate me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
23MAL16awt1figs-rquestion0How have we despised your name?Here the priests are asking a question in order to state that they have not really despised Yahweh. This can be expressed 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
24MAL17dyc6figs-metaphor0polluted breadHere “polluted” describes anything that is not suitable to sacrifice to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
25MAL17v4atfigs-rquestion0How have we polluted you?Here the priests are asking a question in order to state that they have not really polluted Yahweh. This can be expressed 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
26MAL17h6dvfigs-metaphor0polluted youThis expression refers to insulting God by giving him unsuitable sacrifices. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
27MAL17efa30tableThis refers to an altar.
28MAL17xu5yfigs-ellipsis0By saying that Yahwehs table is contemptible.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, Yahwehs table is contemptible.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
29MAL17agd80contemptibleregarded as worthless
30MAL18zw52figs-rquestion0When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not evil?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
31MAL18i5xbfigs-rquestion0When you offer the lame and sick, is that not evil?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
32MAL18f8k3figs-imperative0Present that to your governor! Will he accept you or will he lift up your face?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
33MAL18kw16figs-rquestion0Will he accept you or will he lift up your face?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
34MAL18ch8qfigs-idiom0will he lift up your faceLifting up someones face refers to accepting him with favor. Alternate translation: “will he accept you with favor” or “will he agree to help you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
35MAL18j8zc0Presentgive as a gift to show respect
36MAL19d7q30Now you keep asking the face of God, that he may be gracious to usMalachi 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.
37MAL19kht7figs-synecdoche0keep asking the face of GodHere “face” stands for God and also for his presence. Alternate translation: “keep asking God in his presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
38MAL19r5f4figs-rquestion0with such an offering in your hand, would he lift up any of your faces?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
39MAL19wg220with such an offering in your handThis difficult phrase in Hebrew is interpreted in many different ways by modern versions.
40MAL19kmg8figs-synecdoche0in your handHere “hand” stands for the people bringing the offering. Alternate translation: “brought by you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
41MAL19m84qfigs-idiom0would he lift up any of your facesLifting up someones 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
42MAL110w5uc0Oh, if onlyThis expresses great desire.
43MAL110pv8hfigs-metonymy0so that you might not light fires on my altar in vainHere “light fires on my altar” stands for offering sacrifices on Yahwehs altar. Alternate translation: “so that you might not make fires to burn offerings that I will not accept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
44MAL110ju31figs-synecdoche0from your handHere “your hand” stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
45MAL111v4x9figs-merism0from the rising of the sun to its settingThis double expression means “everywhere.” It is parallel to “among the nations” and “in every place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
46MAL111ls76figs-metonymy0my name will be great among the nationsHere “my name” stands for Yahwehs reputation and honor. Alternate translation: “I will be honored in other nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
47MAL111rx5cfigs-activepassive0in every place incense and pure offerings will be offered in my nameThis 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
48MAL111m2j4figs-metonymy0in my nameHere “name” stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
49MAL112n6gq0its fruit, its foodThis 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.”
50MAL113la3nfigs-idiom0snort at itshow great disrespect by making noises through the nose (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
51MAL113kz7pfigs-rquestion0Should I accept this from your hand?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
52MAL113nx88figs-synecdoche0from your handHere “your hand” stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
53MAL114v5fdfigs-activepassive0my name will be honored among the nationsThis may be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “people in the other nations honor my name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
54MAL114z5rafigs-metonymy0my name will be honoredHere “my name” stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I will be honored” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
55MAL2introjc2b0# Malachi 2 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Levites<br>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: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>### Marital unfaithfulness<br>Because the Jews lived under a covenantal arrangement with Yahweh, their relationship is described using the imagery of a marriage. Marital unfaithfulness indicates a persons unfaithfulness to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
56MAL22y1ilfigs-idiom0lay it on your heartThis refers to considering something to be very important. Alternate translation: “consider it to be very important” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
57MAL22w6csfigs-abstractnouns0give honor to my nameThe abstract noun “honor” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “honor my name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
58MAL22e4vhfigs-metonymy0my nameHere this expression refers to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
59MAL22k5mdfigs-abstractnouns0I will send a curse on youThe abstract noun “curse” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “I will curse you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
60MAL22b7vlfigs-idiom0you are not laying my command on your heartThis refers to considering Gods command to be very important. Alternate translation: “you are not considering my command to be very important” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
61MAL23vsb2figs-metaphor0I will spread dung on your facesHere “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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
62MAL23skc9figs-metonymy0the dung from your festivalsHere “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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
63MAL23m2bsfigs-activepassive0he will take you away with itThis 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
64MAL23zti7figs-metaphor0he will take you away with itThis 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
65MAL24cr4jfigs-metonymy0LeviHere Levi represents his descendants, the tribe of Levi. Alternate translation: “so that my covenant may be with you, the descendants of Levi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
66MAL25x7pvfigs-metonymy0General Information:Yahweh speaks of the tribe of Levi as though they are Levi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
67MAL25t8fsfigs-metaphor0My covenant with him was life and peaceHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
68MAL25f2iffigs-ellipsis0fear, and he feared meThis 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
69MAL25td35figs-metonymy0in awe of my nameHere “my name” stands for God himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
70MAL26e73zfigs-metonymy0nothing false was foundHere finding something stands for that thing existing. Alternate translation: “there was no falsehood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
71MAL26pjq6figs-metonymy0on his lipsHere “lips” stands for a persons ability to speak. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
72MAL26u9rhfigs-metaphor0He walked with meHere walking stands for living, conducting ones life in a certain way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
73MAL26ws89figs-metaphor0in peace and uprightnessHere the idea of location stands for the manner in which Levi lived. Alternate translation: “peacefully and uprightly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
74MAL26p1lhfigs-metaphor0he turned many away from sinHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
75MAL26fxl1figs-metaphor0lipsHere “lips” stands for a persons ability to speak. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
76MAL27kp5vfigs-metaphor0For a priests lips should keep knowledgeHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
77MAL27d2lafigs-abstractnouns0seek instructionHere instruction is spoken of as if it were an object that people could look for. This can be restated to remove the abstract noun “instruction.” Alternate translation: “want to be instructed” or “want a priest to teach them truly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
78MAL27sp8ufigs-metonymy0from his mouthHere “mouth” stands for what a person says. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
79MAL28si1sfigs-metaphor0you have turned away from the true pathThe 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
80MAL28um6vfigs-metaphor0You have caused many to stumbleDisobeying God is spoken of as if it were stumbling. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
81MAL28j9xs0You have caused many to stumble with respect to the lawThe expression “with respect to the law” gives the context for the “stumbling.” Alternate translation: “You have caused many to disobey the law”
82MAL29gx4afigs-metaphor0before all the peopleThis spatial idea stands for the peoples awareness of the priests evil behavior. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
83MAL29wq7pfigs-metaphor0kept my waysHere “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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
84MAL29z4gm0shown partiality with regard to the instructionAlternate translation: “set easy standards of behavior for people you like and difficult standards of behavior for people you do not like”
85MAL29z9ytfigs-metaphor0shown partialityHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
86MAL210h2mp0General Information:Here the prophet Malachi begins to speak to his fellow Israelites.
87MAL210e1l1writing-background0Is there not one father for us all? Has not one God created us?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
88MAL210q37tfigs-rquestion0Has not one God created us?This question is meant to express a statement. Alternate translation: “Certainly it is the same God who has created us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
89MAL210t4al0created usThis probably refers to God forming the Hebrews into a nation.
90MAL210rm21figs-rquestion0Why are we faithless each man against his brother, profaning the covenant of our fathers?Malachi asks this question in order to rebuke his fellow Israelites. This question may be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “We should certainly not mistreat our brothers and disrespect Gods covenant by disobeying his commands, as you have been doing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
91MAL211h25ufigs-metonymy0Judah has been faithlessHere “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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
92MAL211ef4lfigs-activepassive0A disgusting thing has been committed in Israel and in JerusalemThis can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “People have done disgusting things in Israel and in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
93MAL211zbw5figs-metonymy0For Judah has profaned the holy place of YahwehHere “Judah” refers again to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “For the people of Judah have profaned the holy place of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
94MAL211h7i9figs-metonymy0has married the daughter of a foreign godThe 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
95MAL212bxx3figs-metaphor0May Yahweh cut off from the tents of Jacob the man whoDestroying 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
96MAL212tkp6figs-metaphor0the tents of JacobHere “tents of Jacob” stands for the community of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
97MAL212f33mfigs-metonymy0JacobHere “Jacob” stands for all the Israelites, because Jacob was one of the patriarchs from whom the Israelites were descended. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
98MAL212vdy5figs-idiom0the one who is awake and the one who answersThis expression seems to mean “absolutely everyone.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
99MAL213dt290General Information:Malachi continues to speak to his fellow Israelites.
100MAL213sw3ffigs-hyperbole0You cover the altar of Yahweh with tearsThis sarcastically exaggerates the amount of tears the people cry to show that Yahweh knows that the people do not really feel sad. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
101MAL213rx8efigs-doublet0with weeping and sighingThe words “weeping” and “sighing” share similar meanings and intensify the idea of weeping. Alternate translation: “with great weeping” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
102MAL213gt5ufigs-metonymy0does not turn toward the offeringHere turning toward a gift stands for receiving it and showing favor to the giver. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
103MAL213lbk9figs-explicit0does not turn toward the offeringThis implies that those who are weeping at Yahwehs altar have offered sacrifices to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
104MAL213y3lrfigs-synecdoche0from your handHere “hand” stands for the person giving the offering. Alternate translation: “from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
105MAL214n6ulfigs-ellipsis0Why does he not?The full thought, as in [Malachi 2:13](../02/13.md), 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
106MAL214u2qp0the wife of your youthAlternate translation: “the woman you married when you were young”
107MAL214xn6fwriting-background0Yahweh was a witness between you and the wife of your youthThis statement assumes that this woman is still living. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
108MAL214s3k3figs-metaphor0a witness between you and the wife of your youthHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
109MAL214mz1qwriting-background0she was your companion and your wife by covenantThis statement implies that many of the Israelites had divorced their wives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
110MAL214txe10by covenantAlternate translation: “by the covenant of marriage that you agreed to”
111MAL215x1gifigs-rquestion0Did he not make them one, with a portion of his spirit?This question may be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “He certainly made husband and wife one, with a portion of his spirit.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
112MAL215qfl1writing-background0make them oneThis expression implies making husband and wife one flesh. Alternate translation: “make husband and wife one flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
113MAL215i3ny0an offspring from GodChildren who would honor and obey God.
114MAL216hp7zfigs-abstractnouns0I hate divorceHere “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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
115MAL216ly2gfigs-idiom0the one who covers his garment with violenceThis phrase probably means any man who is violent toward his wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
116MAL216iv8h0So guard yourselves in your spirit and do not be faithlessAlternate translation: “So be careful to be loyal to your wife”
117MAL217ug3afigs-metaphor0You have wearied YahwehYahweh 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
118MAL217d6k5figs-rquestion0How have we wearied him?This question is meant to deny that the people have done any wrong. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have certainly not wearied him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
119MAL217ba81figs-explicit0By sayingThe complete idea here is, “You have wearied him by saying.” This is the prophets answer to the rhetorical question. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
120MAL217wde5figs-metaphor0in the eyesThe eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “in the opinion” or “in the judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
121MAL217ze8sfigs-rquestion0Where is the God of justice?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
122MAL217kw1t0the God of justicethe God who punishes evildoers justly
123MAL3introwb480# Malachi 3 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Messiah<br>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: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br>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: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
124MAL31zeq20General Information:Yahweh begins speaking again to the people of Israel in verse 1, but the prophet Malachi begins speaking in verse 2.
125MAL31v6se0SeeAlternate translation: “Look” or “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
126MAL31j5pefigs-metaphor0he will prepare the way before meHere getting people ready to welcome Yahweh is spoken of as if a road were being cleared for Yahweh to travel on. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
127MAL31d1j70Then the Lord, whom you seek … The messenger of the covenant in whom you delightSome 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.
128MAL31w8yf0The messenger of the covenantAlmost 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.
129MAL32f24jfigs-rquestion0But who will be able to endure the day of his coming? Who will be able to stand when he appears?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
130MAL32phd60the day of his comingHere “day” stands for “time.” Alternate translation: “the time when he comes”
131MAL32z2xefigs-metaphor0be able to standHere standing represents resisting someones attack or accusations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
132MAL32iqv7figs-simile0For he will be like a refiners fire and like laundry soapThis sentence gives the reason why no one will be able to resist God when he comes. Gods 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 Gods power to do these things cannot be stopped. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
133MAL33bxz3figs-metaphor0he will purify the sons of LeviForgiving 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
134MAL33tcd4figs-metaphor0the sons of LeviHere “sons” refers to descendants. The male descendants of Levi were the priests and workers in the temple. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
135MAL33pfr2figs-simile0He will sitHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
136MAL33q9lifigs-simile0He will refine them like gold and silverHere persuading people not to sin any longer is spoken of as if a metalworker were making gold and silver more pure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
137MAL33n3xs0they will bring offerings of righteousness to YahwehHere “of righteousness” means “motivated by righteous desires to worship God.” Alternate translation: “they will bring acceptable offerings to Yahweh in order to worship Yahweh”
138MAL34pj3s0General Information:Malachi continues speaking in verse 4, but Yahweh begins speaking again in verse 5.
139MAL34ws2lfigs-metonymy0the offering of Judah and JerusalemHere “Judah” and “Jerusalem” stand for the people in those places. Alternate translation: “the offerings brought by the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
140MAL34y8h1figs-parallelism0as in the days of old, and as in ancient yearsThese 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
141MAL35te3ufigs-abstractnouns0Then I will approach you for judgmentHere “judgment” refers to the act of judging. Alternate translation: “Then I will approach you in order to judge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
142MAL35dx2i0oppress the hired worker in his wagesAlternate translation: “cause the hired worker to suffer by not paying him for his work”
143MAL35k42efigs-explicit0turn away the foreignerThat 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
144MAL36tl2p0General Information:Yahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel.
145MAL36mep40have not come to an endAlternate translation: “have not perished”
146MAL37ji32figs-metaphor0From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept themDisobeying Gods 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
147MAL37deh7figs-metaphor0Return to me, and I will return to youHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
148MAL37l1irfigs-rquestion0How will we return?The people ask this question in order to claim that they have never stopped obeying God. This can be expressed 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
149MAL38w6x10General Information:Yahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel.
150MAL38dn4ifigs-rquestion0Would a person rob God?This question implies that the idea of robbing God is very wicked. This can be expressed 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
151MAL38ijc5figs-rquestion0How have we robbed you?This question implies that the people do not think they have robbed God. Alternate translation: “We have certainly not robbed you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
152MAL38cy6mfigs-explicit0In tithes and offeringsThis reply from Yahweh implies a fuller answer. Alternate translation: “You have robbed me by withholding from me your tithes and offerings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
153MAL39grs1figs-activepassive0You are cursed with a curseThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I have certainly cursed you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
154MAL39mr470you are robbing me, the whole nationHere “nation” stands for the people to whom Yahweh is speaking. Alternate translation: “all of you in the whole nation are robbing me”
155MAL310v6qw0General Information:Yahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel.
156MAL310n4ch0the full titheAlternate translation: “all the tithes”
157MAL310dmr8figs-metaphor0my houseHere “house” stands for the temple. Alternate translation: “my temple” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
158MAL310wcp4figs-metaphor0and test me now in this … if I do not open to you the windows of heavenHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
159MAL312mfq1figs-metaphor0All the nations will call you blessedHere to be called blessed stands for being blessed. Alternate translation: “All the nations will know that you have been blessed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
160MAL312bvs1figs-metonymy0All the nationsThis expression stands for the people in all the nations. Alternate translation: “The people in all the nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
161MAL312rm7vfigs-abstractnouns0a land of delightHere “delight” stands for the condition in which the inhabitants of a land take delight in their land. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
162MAL313l55w0General Information:These verses begin a new section in the book. Here Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.
163MAL313h229figs-metaphor0Your words against me have been strongHere “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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
164MAL313fv74figs-rquestion0What have we said among ourselves against you?The people ask this question in order to claim that they have said nothing against God. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have not said anything among ourselves against you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
165MAL314hnv8figs-rquestion0What profit is it that we have kept his requirements or walked mournfully before Yahweh of hosts?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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
166MAL314j6y1figs-metaphor0walked mournfully before Yahweh of hostsHere “walk mournfully” stands for “behave in a sorrowful manner,” probably in order to indicate sorrow over their sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
167MAL314n7bsfigs-metaphor0before Yahweh of hostsHere this expression refers to God being aware of what the people were doing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
168MAL315maa8figs-metaphor0we call the arrogant blessedHere to be called “blessed” stands for being blessed. Alternate translation: “we say that the arrogant are blessed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
169MAL315a55nfigs-activepassive0we call the arrogant blessedThis may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we say that the arrogant are well off” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
170MAL315e45rfigs-explicit0escapeThat is, “they escape Gods punishment.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
171MAL316e2b80General Information:The event described here may have taken place after the godly people in Israel repented of their sins.
172MAL316le6y0a book of remembrance was written before him about those who feared YahwehThis 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.
173MAL316tdq5figs-abstractnouns0book of remembranceThis expression refers to any book that helps people remember important things, such as events or people who lived in the past. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
174MAL316b8vcfigs-metonymy0honored his nameHere “his name” stands for God himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
175MAL317em210They will be mineAlternate translation: “They will be my people”
176MAL317j5apfigs-abstractnouns0my own treasured possessionHere “possession” refers to ones personal property. This idea can be expressed with a verb. Alternate translation: “they will belong completely to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
177MAL317pp170I actthe time when Yahweh will judge and punish the rebellious Israelites, giving victory to the faithful Israelites
178MAL318d9hz0distinguish betweenAlternate translation: “see a difference between” or “treat differently”
179MAL4introazp50# Malachi 4 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Last days<br>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: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])
180MAL41q73f0seeAlternate translation: “look” or “listen” or “pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
181MAL41y5w1figs-metaphor0the day is coming, burning like a furnaceThe disaster occurring at this time is spoken of as if the day itself were burning. Gods judgment is often spoken of as if it were a fire. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
182MAL41e9jy0arrogant … evildoersSee how you translated these wordsd in [Malachi 3:15](../03/15.md).
183MAL41i1qyfigs-metaphor0all the arrogant and all the evildoers will become stubbleThese 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
184MAL41f4xrfigs-metonymy0The day that is coming will burn them upHere “the day” stands for the events that will occur on that day. Alternate translation: “On that day I will burn them up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
185MAL41x4llfigs-merism0it will leave them neither root nor branchThis 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
186MAL42tqe5figs-metonymy0you who fear my nameHere “my name” stands for Yahweh himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
187MAL42jc140the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wingsThis 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 peoples righteousness and heal them.
188MAL42p4ncfigs-abstractnouns0healing in its wingsThis 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
189MAL42n991figs-metaphor0wingsIt 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 suns life-giving rays of light are spoken of as if they were its wings or (2) the wings are said to cover Gods people so as to give them peace and safey. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
190MAL42is44figs-simile0You will go out, and you will leap like calves from the stallHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
191MAL43cn2rfigs-metaphor0you will trample down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feetHere the victory of Gods people is spoken of as if they were walking over the burned bodies of their enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
192MAL43f8ct0they will be ashesThe Israelites enemies are spoken of as having been burned to ashes ([Malachi 4:1](../04/01.md)).
193MAL44if2vfigs-abstractnouns0Remember the teaching of my servant Moses that I gave himThe abstract noun “teaching” can be stated as “taught.” Alternate translation: “Remember what I taught my servant Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
194MAL44td5c0RememberHere “Remember” stands for “Think about” and, at the same time, “Obey.”
195MAL44n5dr0HorebThis is another name for Sinai.
196MAL44r85gfigs-metonymy0all IsraelHere “all Israel” is a reference to all the people in the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
197MAL44arq60the statutesThese are the laws that God gave Israel for all time.
198MAL44l5p20the rulingsThese are legal decisions meant to make clear how the general statutes apply to everyday life.
199MAL45cnc1figs-metaphor0the coming of the great and fearful day of YahwehHere 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
200MAL45s6ig0the great and fearful day of YahwehThis expression refers to any time in which Yahweh acts decisively.
201MAL46kql7figs-metaphor0He will turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathersHere changing how people think is spoken of as if it were turning their hearts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])