Malachi 2:13

Authorized King James Version

And this have ye done again, covering the altar of the LORD with tears, with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְזֹאת֙

H2063

this (often used adverb)

שֵׁנִ֣ית

H8145

again

properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again

תַּֽעֲשׂ֔וּ

H6213

And this have ye done

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

כַּסּ֤וֹת

H3680

covering

properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)

דִּמְעָה֙

H1832

with tears

weeping

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מִזְבַּ֣ח

H4196

the altar

an altar

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

of the LORD

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

בְּכִ֖י

H1065

with weeping

a weeping; by analogy, a dripping

#10

וַֽאֲנָקָ֑ה

H603

and with crying out

shrieking

#11

מֵאֵ֣ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

#12

ע֗וֹד

H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

#13

פְּנוֹת֙

H6437

insomuch that he regardeth

to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc

#14

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#15

הַמִּנְחָ֔ה

H4503

not the offering

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

#16

וְלָקַ֥חַת

H3947

any more or receiveth

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

#17

רָצ֖וֹן

H7522

it with good will

delight (especially as shown)

#18

מִיֶּדְכֶֽם׃

H3027

at your hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

Analysis

Within the broader context of Malachi, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?