MAL front intro axt4 0 # 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) (1:2–5)<br>1. A message against the priests (1:6–2:9)<br>1. A message against Judah: they have broken faith by divorcing and intermarrying (2:10–16)<br>1. A message about the day of refining (2:17–3:6)<br>1. A message about tithing (3:7–12)<br>1. A message about those who others treated shamefully, but who were faithful to Yahweh (3:13–18)<br>1. Yahweh will punish the wicked and send Elijah before the “great and terrible day of Yahweh” (4:5–6)<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]])
MAL 1 intro b7vm 0 # 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]])
MAL 1 1 qm8z 0 The declaration of the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of Malachi If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. “This is the declaration of the word of Yahweh to Israel by the hand of Malachi”
MAL 1 1 x4vm 0 Yahweh 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.
MAL 1 1 lx85 figs-idiom 0 by the hand of Malachi 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MAL 1 2 vb2m figs-rquestion 0 How have you loved us? This question indicates that the people doubt the truth of what God says. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have not shown that you love us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MAL 1 2 cy61 figs-rquestion 0 Was not Esau Jacob’s brother? 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MAL 1 2 ef9g figs-explicit 0 I have loved Jacob 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MAL 1 2 j176 figs-synecdoche 0 I have loved Jacob This name “Jacob” refers here not only to Jacob, but also to all his descendants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MAL 1 3 xf47 0 Esau I have hated Here “hated” implies that there was no covenant between Yahweh and Esau. However, it does not imply that Yahweh was emotionally against Esau.
MAL 1 3 e38q figs-synecdoche 0 Esau I have hated This name “Esau” refers here not only to Esau, but also to all his descendants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MAL 1 3 t9bu 0 his mountains This refers to the hill country of Edom.
MAL 1 3 q6yq 0 I have made his inheritance a place for the jackals of the wilderness 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.
MAL 1 3 rff9 figs-metaphor 0 his inheritance Here “inheritance” stands for the region that Esau’s descendants, the nation of Edom, occupied. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 1 4 z8qd figs-metonymy 0 If Edom says Here “Edom” stands for the people of Edom. Alternate translation: “If the people of Edom say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 1 4 x6kr figs-metonymy 0 I will throw down Here “throw down” stands for “destroy.” Alternate translation: “I will destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 1 4 zv9v figs-abstractnouns 0 country of wickedness Here “wickedness” stands either for wicked people or for wicked actions. Alternate translation: “country of wicked people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 1 5 bq14 figs-synecdoche 0 Your own eyes will see this Here “your own eyes” stands for the people themselves. Alternate translation: “You yourselves will see this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MAL 1 6 zu71 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.
MAL 1 6 u3vj figs-metonymy 0 despise my name Here “my name” stands for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “treat me as though you hate me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 1 6 awt1 figs-rquestion 0 How have we despised your name? Here the priests are asking a question in order to state that they have not really despised Yahweh. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it 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]])
MAL 1 7 dyc6 figs-metaphor 0 polluted bread Here “polluted” describes anything that is not suitable to sacrifice to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 1 7 v4at figs-rquestion 0 How have we polluted you? Here the priests are asking a question in order to state that they have not really polluted Yahweh. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it 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]])
MAL 1 7 h6dv figs-metaphor 0 polluted you This expression refers to insulting God by giving him unsuitable sacrifices. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 1 7 xu5y figs-ellipsis 0 By saying that Yahweh’s 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, ‘Yahweh’s table is contemptible.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
MAL 1 8 zw52 figs-rquestion 0 When 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]])
MAL 1 8 i5xb figs-rquestion 0 When 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]])
MAL 1 8 f8k3 figs-imperative 0 Present 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]])
MAL 1 8 kw16 figs-rquestion 0 Will 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]])
MAL 1 8 ch8q figs-idiom 0 will he lift up your face 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MAL 1 8 j8zc 0 Present give as a gift to show respect
MAL 1 9 d7q3 0 Now you keep asking the face of God, that he may be gracious to us 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.
MAL 1 9 kht7 figs-synecdoche 0 keep asking the face of God Here “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]])
MAL 1 9 r5f4 figs-rquestion 0 with 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]])
MAL 1 9 kmg8 figs-synecdoche 0 in your hand Here “hand” stands for the people bringing the offering. Alternate translation: “brought by you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MAL 1 9 m84q figs-idiom 0 would he lift up any of your faces 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MAL 1 10 pv8h figs-metonymy 0 so that you might not light fires on my altar in vain 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 1 10 ju31 figs-synecdoche 0 from your hand Here “your hand” stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MAL 1 11 v4x9 figs-merism 0 from the rising of the sun to its setting This 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]])
MAL 1 11 ls76 figs-metonymy 0 my name will be great among the nations Here “my name” stands for Yahweh’s reputation and honor. Alternate translation: “I will be honored in other nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 1 11 rx5c figs-activepassive 0 in every place incense and pure offerings will be offered in my name 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MAL 1 11 m2j4 figs-metonymy 0 in my name Here “name” stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 1 12 n6gq 0 its fruit, its food 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.”
MAL 1 13 kz7p figs-rquestion 0 Should 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]])
MAL 1 13 nx88 figs-synecdoche 0 from your hand Here “your hand” stands for “you.” Alternate translation: “from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MAL 1 14 v5fd figs-activepassive 0 my name will be honored among the nations This may be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “people in the other nations honor my name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MAL 1 14 z5ra figs-metonymy 0 my name will be honored Here “my name” stands for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I will be honored” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 intro jc2b 0 # 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 person’s 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]])
MAL 2 2 y1il figs-idiom 0 lay it on your heart This refers to considering something to be very important. Alternate translation: “consider it to be very important” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MAL 2 2 w6cs figs-abstractnouns 0 give honor to my name If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **honor**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “honor my name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 2 2 k5md figs-abstractnouns 0 I will send a curse on you If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **curse**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “I will curse you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 2 2 b7vl figs-idiom 0 you are not laying my command on your heart This refers to considering God’s 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]])
MAL 2 3 vsb2 figs-metaphor 0 I will spread dung on your faces 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 3 skc9 figs-metonymy 0 the dung from your festivals 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 3 m2bs figs-activepassive 0 he will take you away with it 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MAL 2 3 zti7 figs-metaphor 0 he will take you away with it 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 4 cr4j figs-metonymy 0 Levi Here 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]])
MAL 2 5 x7pv figs-metonymy 0 General Information: Yahweh speaks of the tribe of Levi as though they are Levi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 5 t8fs figs-metaphor 0 My covenant with him was life and peace 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 5 f2if figs-ellipsis 0 fear, and he feared me 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
MAL 2 5 td35 figs-metonymy 0 in awe of my name Here “my name” stands for God himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 6 e73z figs-metonymy 0 nothing false was found Here finding something stands for that thing existing. Alternate translation: “there was no falsehood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 6 pjq6 figs-metonymy 0 on his lips Here “lips” stands for a person’s ability to speak. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 6 u9rh figs-metaphor 0 He walked with me Here walking stands for living, conducting one’s life in a certain way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 6 ws89 figs-metaphor 0 in peace and uprightness Here 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]])
MAL 2 6 p1lh figs-metaphor 0 he turned many away from sin 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 6 fxl1 figs-metaphor 0 lips Here “lips” stands for a person’s ability to speak. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 7 kp5v figs-metaphor 0 For a priest’s lips should keep knowledge 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 7 d2la figs-abstractnouns 0 seek instruction 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 could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “want to be instructed” or “want a priest to teach them truly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 2 8 si1s figs-metaphor 0 you have turned away from the true path 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 8 um6v figs-metaphor 0 You have caused many to stumble Disobeying God is spoken of as if it were stumbling. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 8 j9xs 0 You have caused many to stumble with respect to the law The expression “with respect to the law” gives the context for the “stumbling.” Alternate translation: “You have caused many to disobey the law”
MAL 2 9 gx4a figs-metaphor 0 before all the people This spatial idea stands for the people’s awareness of the priests’ evil behavior. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 9 wq7p figs-metaphor 0 kept my ways 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 9 z4gm 0 shown partiality with regard to the instruction Alternate translation: “set easy standards of behavior for people you like and difficult standards of behavior for people you do not like”
MAL 2 9 z9yt figs-metaphor 0 shown partiality 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 10 e1l1 writing-background 0 Is 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]])
MAL 2 10 q37t figs-rquestion 0 Has 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]])
MAL 2 10 rm21 figs-rquestion 0 Why 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. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MAL 2 11 h25u figs-metonymy 0 Judah has been faithless 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 11 ef4l figs-activepassive 0 A disgusting thing has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem This 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]])
MAL 2 11 zbw5 figs-metonymy 0 For Judah has profaned the holy place of Yahweh Here “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]])
MAL 2 11 h7i9 figs-metonymy 0 has married the daughter of a foreign god 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 12 bxx3 figs-metaphor 0 May Yahweh cut off from the tents of Jacob the man who 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 12 tkp6 figs-metaphor 0 the tents of Jacob Here “tents of Jacob” stands for the community of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 12 f33m figs-metonymy 0 Jacob Here “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]])
MAL 2 12 vdy5 figs-idiom 0 the one who is awake and the one who answers This expression seems to mean “absolutely everyone.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MAL 2 13 sw3f figs-hyperbole 0 You cover the altar of Yahweh with tears This 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]])
MAL 2 13 rx8e figs-doublet 0 with weeping and sighing The 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]])
MAL 2 13 gt5u figs-metonymy 0 does not turn toward the offering Here turning toward a gift stands for receiving it and showing favor to the giver. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 2 13 lbk9 figs-explicit 0 does not turn toward the offering This implies that those who are weeping at Yahweh’s altar have offered sacrifices to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MAL 2 13 y3lr figs-synecdoche 0 from your hand Here “hand” stands for the person giving the offering. Alternate translation: “from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MAL 2 14 n6ul figs-ellipsis 0 Why 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]])
MAL 2 14 xn6f writing-background 0 Yahweh was a witness between you and the wife of your youth This statement assumes that this woman is still living. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
MAL 2 14 s3k3 figs-metaphor 0 a witness between you and the wife of your youth 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
MAL 2 14 mz1q writing-background 0 she was your companion and your wife by covenant This statement implies that many of the Israelites had divorced their wives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
MAL 2 15 x1gi figs-rquestion 0 Did he not make them one, with a portion of his spirit? If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it 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]])
MAL 2 15 qfl1 writing-background 0 make them one This expression implies making husband and wife one flesh. Alternate translation: “make husband and wife one flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
MAL 2 16 hp7z figs-abstractnouns 0 I hate divorce 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 2 16 ly2g figs-idiom 0 the one who covers his garment with violence This phrase probably means any man who is violent toward his wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MAL 2 17 ug3a figs-metaphor 0 You have wearied Yahweh 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 2 17 d6k5 figs-rquestion 0 How have we wearied him? This question is meant to deny that the people have done any wrong. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have certainly not wearied him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MAL 2 17 ba81 figs-explicit 0 By saying The complete idea here is, “You have wearied him by saying.” This is the prophet’s answer to the rhetorical question. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MAL 2 17 wde5 figs-metaphor 0 in the eyes The 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]])
MAL 2 17 ze8s figs-rquestion 0 Where 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]])
MAL 3 intro wb48 0 # 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]])
MAL 3 1 zeq2 0 General Information: Yahweh begins speaking again to the people of Israel in verse 1, but the prophet Malachi begins speaking in verse 2.
MAL 3 1 j5pe figs-metaphor 0 he will prepare the way before me Here 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]])
MAL 3 1 d1j7 0 Then the Lord, whom you seek … The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight 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.
MAL 3 1 w8yf 0 The messenger of the covenant 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.
MAL 3 2 f24j figs-rquestion 0 But 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]])
MAL 3 2 phd6 0 the day of his coming Here “day” stands for “time.” Alternate translation: “the time when he comes”
MAL 3 2 z2xe figs-metaphor 0 be able to stand Here standing represents resisting someone’s attack or accusations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 2 iqv7 figs-simile 0 For he will be like a refiner’s fire and like laundry soap 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MAL 3 3 bxz3 figs-metaphor 0 he will purify the sons of Levi 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 3 tcd4 figs-metaphor 0 the sons of Levi Here “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]])
MAL 3 3 pfr2 figs-simile 0 He will sit 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MAL 3 3 q9li figs-simile 0 He will refine them like gold and silver Here 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]])
MAL 3 3 n3xs 0 they will bring offerings of righteousness to Yahweh 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”
MAL 3 4 ws2l figs-metonymy 0 the offering of Judah and Jerusalem Here “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]])
MAL 3 4 y8h1 figs-parallelism 0 as in the days of old, and as in ancient years 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
MAL 3 5 te3u figs-abstractnouns 0 Then I will approach you for judgment Here “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]])
MAL 3 5 k42e figs-explicit 0 turn away the foreigner 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 7 ji32 figs-metaphor 0 From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 7 deh7 figs-metaphor 0 Return to me, and I will return to you 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 7 l1ir figs-rquestion 0 How will we return? The people ask this question in order to claim that they have never stopped obeying God. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it 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]])
MAL 3 8 dn4i figs-rquestion 0 Would a person rob God? This question implies that the idea of robbing God is very wicked. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it 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]])
MAL 3 8 ijc5 figs-rquestion 0 How 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]])
MAL 3 8 cy6m figs-explicit 0 In tithes and offerings This 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]])
MAL 3 9 grs1 figs-activepassive 0 You are cursed with a curse 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MAL 3 9 mr47 0 you are robbing me, the whole nation Here “nation” stands for the people to whom Yahweh is speaking. Alternate translation: “all of you in the whole nation are robbing me”
MAL 3 10 dmr8 figs-metaphor 0 my house Here “house” stands for the temple. Alternate translation: “my temple” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 10 wcp4 figs-metaphor 0 and test me now in this … if I do not open to you the windows of heaven 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 12 mfq1 figs-metaphor 0 All the nations will call you blessed Here 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]])
MAL 3 12 bvs1 figs-metonymy 0 All the nations This 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]])
MAL 3 12 rm7v figs-abstractnouns 0 a land of delight Here “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]])
MAL 3 13 h229 figs-metaphor 0 Your words against me have been strong 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 3 13 fv74 figs-rquestion 0 What have we said among ourselves against you? The people ask this question in order to claim that they have said nothing against God. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have not said anything among ourselves against you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MAL 3 14 hnv8 figs-rquestion 0 What 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]])
MAL 3 14 j6y1 figs-metaphor 0 walked mournfully before Yahweh of hosts Here “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]])
MAL 3 14 n7bs figs-metaphor 0 before Yahweh of hosts Here this expression refers to God being aware of what the people were doing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 3 15 maa8 figs-metaphor 0 we call the arrogant blessed Here 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]])
MAL 3 15 a55n figs-activepassive 0 we call the arrogant blessed This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we say that the arrogant are well off” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MAL 3 15 e45r figs-explicit 0 escape That is, “they escape God’s punishment.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MAL 3 16 le6y 0 a book of remembrance was written before him about those who feared Yahweh 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.
MAL 3 16 tdq5 figs-abstractnouns 0 book of remembrance This 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]])
MAL 3 17 j5ap figs-abstractnouns 0 my own treasured possession 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 4 intro azp5 0 # 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]])
MAL 4 1 y5w1 figs-metaphor 0 the day is coming, burning like a furnace 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 4 1 i1qy figs-metaphor 0 all the arrogant and all the evildoers will become stubble 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 4 1 f4xr figs-metonymy 0 The day that is coming will burn them up Here “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]])
MAL 4 1 x4ll figs-merism 0 it will leave them neither root nor branch 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 4 2 tqe5 figs-metonymy 0 you who fear my name Here “my name” stands for Yahweh himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 4 2 jc14 0 the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings 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.
MAL 4 2 p4nc figs-abstractnouns 0 healing in its wings 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 4 2 n991 figs-metaphor 0 wings 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 4 2 is44 figs-simile 0 You will go out, and you will leap like calves from the stall 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MAL 4 3 cn2r figs-metaphor 0 you will trample down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet Here the victory of God’s people is spoken of as if they were walking over the burned bodies of their enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 4 3 f8ct 0 they will be ashes The Israelites’ enemies are spoken of as having been burned to ashes ([Malachi 4:1](../04/01.md)).
MAL 4 4 if2v figs-abstractnouns 0 Remember the teaching of my servant Moses that I gave him If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **teaching**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “taught.” Alternate translation: “Remember what I taught my servant Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MAL 4 4 r85g figs-metonymy 0 all Israel Here “all Israel” is a reference to all the people in the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MAL 4 5 cnc1 figs-metaphor 0 the coming of the great and fearful day of Yahweh 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MAL 4 5 s6ig 0 the great and fearful day of Yahweh This expression refers to any time in which Yahweh acts decisively.
MAL 4 6 kql7 figs-metaphor 0 He will turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers Here changing how people think is spoken of as if it were turning their hearts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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