Malachi 2:12

Authorized King James Version

The LORD will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the scholar, out of the tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering unto the LORD of hosts.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יַכְרֵ֨ת

H3772

will cut off

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

לַֽיהוָ֖ה

H3068

The LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

לָאִ֨ישׁ

H376

the man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

אֲשֶׁ֤ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

יַעֲשֶׂ֙נָּה֙

H6213

that doeth

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

עֵ֣ר

H5782

this the master

to wake (literally or figuratively)

וְעֹנֶ֔ה

H6030

and the scholar

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

מֵאָהֳלֵ֖י

H168

out of the tabernacles

a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב

H3290

of Jacob

jaakob, the israelitish patriarch

#10

וּמַגִּ֣ישׁ

H5066

and him that offereth

to be or come (causatively, bring) near (for any purpose); euphemistically, to lie with a woman; as an enemy, to attack; religious to worship; causati

#11

מִנְחָ֔ה

H4503

an offering

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

#12

לַֽיהוָ֖ה

H3068

The LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#13

צְבָאֽוֹת׃

H6635

of hosts

a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

Analysis

Within the broader context of Malachi, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Malachi.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Malachi Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?