Literary Analysis of Covenant Themes in the Book of Malachi

The category of covenant is considered to be the dominant and cohesive idea in the theology of the OT. It is the means through which Israel conceptualise its relation with Yahweh. Although the term “covenant” is variously and even contradictorily defined, its applicability to Israel’s conceptualisation of its relationship with Yahweh is pervasive and well-known. The covenant relationship between Israel and Yahweh is considered to be its constitution, its vocation, and its salvation. From a theological view point, the essential components of Malachi’s oracles are the personhood of Yahweh – the God of Israel, Yahweh’s covenant relationship with Israel, and the all-pervasive message of unreserved and enthusiastic personal response of Israel to the truth assertions of the prophetic voice. This article thus demonstrates the significance of covenant as the central and cohesive theological motif connecting and coordinating several themes present in the book of Malachi as well as illuminating its message. In Malachi, one observes that certain religious fundamentals were compromised. In order to deal with the indifference and its adverse consequences in the gradual decline towards an unstructured existence and to hold together a society that upholds values and maintains an ancient faith, Malachi was skilful and creative in his employment of the covenant theme to the advantage of his ministerial context. The article presents precise background and historical information about the book of Malachi that are crucial to an understanding of its theme and message, the book’s literary style, theme and structure, examines the various covenant themes and then concludes by synthesising these themes with the overall message of the book’s context.

when a large number of ANE political treaties (covenants) dating from the first millennia B.C.E.were uncovered. 10thin the ANE context, Kessler identifies and describes four important types of covenant as well as provides biblical illustrations of these covenant patterns: first, covenants that were made between two individuals or groups of relatively equal status or power, sometimes called "bilateral parity covenants."Second, covenants made between a greater power and a lesser one, often referred to as "bilateral suzerainty (vassal) treaties."A third type of covenant was that which was imposed by a powerful king or nation upon a less powerful one.These are usually called "loyalty oaths."The fourth type of covenant involved a solemn promise by one party to another to grant a certain benefit or good.These are usually called "promissory covenants, or covenants of grants."11Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh is considered to be its constitution, its vocation, and its salvation.While the idea is a multifaceted one, it includes descriptive norms (though it is more a motive for justice than a source of law) and shared experience of Yahweh's saving acts.It serves as the hermeneutic for interpreting history as continuance of those acts.It adopts a formal structure and involves ritual acts.12This is why Walter Brueggemann has rightly said, "Israel's worship is to be understood as a practice of covenant whereby Israel variously receives and affirms the covenant, maintains and sustains the covenant, and takes steps to renew and revivify the covenant." 13is article intends to demonstrate the significance of covenant as the central and cohesive theological motif connecting and coordinating several themes present in the book of Malachi as well as illuminating its message.In Malachi, the word b e rîth ("covenant") occurs about six times (2:4; 2:5; 2:8; 2:10; 2:14; 3:1), along with several other associated terminologies and with such thought-provoking potential of interpreting the entire book all around this notion. 14However, numerous infringements of covenantal relationship are spelt out.The prophet's message with particular reference to certain kinds of unacceptable behaviour: ritual malpractices, inappropriate marriages and associated divorce, failure to tithe and social inequalities are all violations of the responsibility of Yahweh's covenant with Israel.Written at a time following the return from the Babylonian captivity, the book of Malachi illustrates the steady and ongoing infidelity of Yahweh's people in the Second Temple period.The book reflects in many ways prophetic notion at the close of an era and then looks forward to a different kind of future, yet to come. 15The book brings its prophetic narrative to an end with a caution concerning an approaching moment of Yahweh's justice and the declaration of the arrival of Elijah the prophet. 16In its canonical context, Malachi serves a dual function as both a self contained prophecy and a unified conclusion to the book of the Twelve, 17 and thus provides an overall framework and clues to the application of the Twelve. 18Seen in this context, the remarks of Marvin A. Sweeney become very fascinating: Finally, Malachi, in its call for renewed observance of the covenant, rehearses various themes from the Twelve, such as the destruction of Edom/Esau, the disrupted covenant between YHWH and Israel, the polluted state of the temple and the priesthood, and the Day of YHWH.In projecting YHWH's appearance, Malachi calls for observance of Mosaic Torah, and thereby recalls the instruction in YHWH's Torah that will be given in Zion (Mic 4); it looks forward to the appearance of Elijah, who is perhaps associated with the allusions to Jehoshaphat in Joel and Obadiah, when Israel turns its heart back to YHWH.Insofar as Malachi expresses YHWH's distaste for divorce and calls for return of Israel to YHWH, it rounds out the themes introduced in the book of Hosea. 19 Malachi, one observes that certain religious fundamentals were compromised: did Yahweh actually love Israel and what evidence of Yahweh's justice does one find in his world?These fundamental misgivings affected several other areas of Israel's life.While the priesthood and religious worship lost all sense of integrity, intermarriage became widespread and social vices rampant.In order to deal with the indifference and its adverse consequences in the gradual decline towards an unstructured existence and to hold together a society that upholds values and maintains an ancient faith, Malachi was skilful and creative in his employment of the various covenant ideas to the advantage of his ministerial context.As a literary endeavour, the article presents precise background and historical information about the book of Malachi that are crucial to an understanding of its theme and message, the book's literary style, theme and structure, examines the various covenant themes and then concludes by synthesising these themes within the overall context of the book's message.

B BACKGROUND AND HISTORICAL INFORMATION
Establishing background and historical information about the book of Malachi is crucial to an understanding of its theme and message.Very little is known about Malachi and his time. 20While the name Malachi (malʼākhî) could have been the actual name of the prophet, or simply "my messenger," that is Yahweh's messenger, as the one who is responsible for the oracles of the book, it is alternatively regarded as a designation for the nameless individual accountable for the compilation of the book. 21Although no specific information is presented with regard to the individual life of the writer, 22 and namelessness or pseudo-anonymity is considered to be a characteristic element of late prophecy, 23 the book is intrinsically related to the viewpoint that Zech 9-11, 12-14, and Malachi were initially three autonomous and nameless compositions. 24he various scholarly opinions that consider the author of the book of Malachi as someone who is acquainted with scribal pursuit, 25 has given rise to the deduction that the author was not a Levite. 26His official position provided him a nonprofessional's perception of the priesthood nevertheless, with adequate understanding of its disposition and its structural compositions. 27As it is, the book of Malachi breathes the temper and outlook of an innovative, true personality of a prophetic figure.While his date is masked in uncertainty, 28 evidences within the inner surface structure of the book reveal that the prophecy took place at a time following the return from exile and after the rebuilding of the temple in the Persian era, most likely in the fifth century B.C.E.. 29 While 27.These three distinct units of prophetic oracles were at a time included in the same prophetic compendium which was later inserted in their current position in the canon randomly.See Louis Stulman and Hyun C. P. Kim, You are My People: An Introduction to the Prophetic Literature (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 2010), 240.See also, David L. Peterson who has observed that these three distinct units of prophetic oracles set up an epilogue both to the three maśʼôth and to the Minor Prophets in its entirety.See David L. Peterson, Zechariah 9-14 and Malachi (OTL; Louisville, Ky.: Westminster/John Knox Press, 1995), 2. 25 Karl W. Weyde considerers the writer of the book of Malachi as a scribe, one who simply explained ancient traditions that were available to him.See Karl W. Weyde, Prophecy and Teaching: Prophetic Authority, Form Problems, and the Use of Traditions in the Book of Malachi (BZAW 288; Berlin: Walter de Gruyder, 2000), 4-5.Konrad Schmid, holds that the books of Malachi, Joel and Habakkuk should be viewed as being completely the prophecy of scribal tradents.See Konrad Schmid, The Old Testament: A Literary History (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2012), 164.See also, Paul L. Redditt, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi (NCBC; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans,  1995), 153; Jan Christian Gertz, et al., T&T Clark Handbook on the Old Testament: An Introduction to the Literature, Religion and History of the Old Testament (New York: T&T Clark International, 2012), 521. 26Joseph Blenkinsopp notes that Malachi's intense concern for the cult, along with his ferocious attack on the priesthood in addition to its carelessness in ritual ethics, divorce and above all its blasé skepticism in religious matters, suggests that he may have been either a dissident priest turned prophet or a Levite.See Joseph Blenkinsopp, A History of Prophecy in Israel (rev.ed.; Louisville: WJKP, 1996), 209.Malachi, as speculated by Paul L. Redditt was a Levite or represents a Levitical viewpoint.See Paul L. Redditt, "The Book of Malachi in Its Social Setting," CBQ 56/2  (1994): 240-255 (252).Hill,Malachi,18. 28 For majority of scholars, no precise date can be given.However, the range of possibilities is still vast.Assis,"Structure and Meaning," 354;Hill,Malachi,[78][79][80][81][82][83][84] Lester L. Malachi is thought to be a ministry colleague of Ezra and Nehemiah, 30 at the same time the dating of these books has also generated a fair amount of disputation, 31 it seems likely that the final stage of the book of Malachi can be dated sometime between 475-450 B.C.E.. 32 From his writing, it is noticeable that Malachi did not live during a period of major political developments or violent situation. Th oracles in the book of Malachi reflect everyday life in a context that has been known to be a small province of a great Persian Empire.33 Considered to be those who ushered in an era of relative peace that was condu-  Prophets: An Exegetical and Expository Commentary (vol.3; ed. Thoma E. McComiskey;  Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1998), 1245-1396 (1252-53).32 See E. Ray Clendenen, "Malachi," in Haggai, Malachi (ed. Rihard A. Taylor and  E. Ray Clendenen; NAC 21A; Nashville, Tenn.: Broadman and Holman Publishers,  2004), 203-464 (206); Hill,Malachi,83. 33 For a comprehensive treatment of the population and lived situation in the province of Yehud of the massive Persian Empire, the following sources can be helpful: Charles Carter, "The Province of Yehud in the Post-Exilic Period: Surrounding Site cive for growth and innovative economic policy, the Persian rule provides the background against which Malachi, a subject of the Persian king, must be assessed.
Thus like the rest the prophetic books, the book of Malachi is rooted within the framework of the environmental circumstances of the prophet's period.The book's perspective of lived reality divides the prophet's audience into various groups. 34The chosen people were still a colonial people in the Persian Empire.While there was relative peace in Malachi's world, it was not particularly happy moment for the Judean population.In this period of international tranquillity, Israel had little sense of vitality, direction as there was collapse of internal discipline.Depression and discontent were the prevailing feelings in Malachi's day.The expectations of preceding generation had crashed on the rock of reality.Those who had hoped for the establishment of a new international order following the restoration of the temple (Hag 2:7, 9, 18-19; Ezek 43:1-5) and kingdom promises made to David (Ezek 34:13, 23-24), were sadly disappointed as these promises remained unrealised.The people had inherited hopelessness which could not equip them to adequately cope with the gloomy and seemingly unchanged world in which they now found themselves.In the cultic department the situation culminated in the superficial and heartless performance of duty.The altar of Yahweh was disregarded (Mal 1:6-8, 13), vows were offhandedly fulfilled (Mal 1:14), justice was perverted (Mal 2:6-9; 3:5) 35 and hypocrisy took place in the area of tithes and offerings (Mal 3:6-12). 36More than any other prophets, Malachi indict the priests and people and expose them to themselves. 37s generation, like that of Haggai and Zechariah, faced harsh and serious economic situations and lived in an atmosphere that was unenthusiastic for 34 Lena-Sofia Tiemeyer identifies the audience of Malachi to be the priests and the people.See Lena-Sofia Tiemeyer, "Giving a Voice to Malachi's Interlocutors," SJOT  19/2 (2005): 173-192 (178-78).See also, Peter Ross Bedford, "Discerning the Time: Haggai, Zechariah and the Delay in the Rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple," in The Pitcher is Broken: Memorial Essays for Gosta W. Ahlstrom (ed.Steven W. Holloway and Lowell K. Handy; Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1995), 71-94 (72); Mark J. Boda, "Perspectives on Priest in Haggai-Malachi," in Prayer and Poetry in the Dead Sea Scrolls and Related Literature: Essays in honor of Eileen Schuller on the occasion of her 65th birthday (ed.Jeremy Penner, Ken M. Penner and Cecilia Wassen; STDJ 98; Brill: Leiden, 2012), 13-33 (15). 35Blessing O. Bọlọjẹ and Alphonso Groenewald, "Malachi's Concern for Social Justice: Malachi 2:17 and 3:5 and its Ethical Imperatives for Faith Communities," HTS 70/1 (2014); Art.#2072, 9 pages (here p. 3).DOI: 10.4102/ hts.v70i1.2072. 36Blessing O. Bọlọjẹ and Alphonso Groenewald, "Hypocrisy in Stewardship: An Ethical Reading of Malachi 3:6-12 in the Context of Christian Stewardship," HTS 70/1 (2014); Art.#2086, 11 pages (here pp.2-3).DOI: 10.4102/hts.v70i1.2086. 37Glazier-McDonald, Malachi, 17.  the practice of orthodoxy. 38The moral principles were abandoned for a series of ethical compromise, in which case personal success and benefits are principle standards for decision making. 39This was clearly manifest in a positive attitude towards intermarriage with foreign women and the growing prevalence of divorce that undermined ancient traditions.The ruined lives, the collapse of hopes, and the loss of faithfulness make it an abomination to Yahweh (Mal 2:10-16). 40Malachi was thus faced with a wall of indifference and apathy.He interprets their thoughts, puts them in the abrupt, naked language and pictures them as protest to every charge brought against them.He spoke of the esteemed faith to a people for whom religion had become a routine and who were apathetic in their observance of cherished ancient traditions.Malachi's task was that of strengthening his people and this was obviously not a simple one in view of the fact that the prophetic promises of the prosperity of the land after the temple had been reconstructed had failed to manifest.His major concern was to correct the wrong view about the covenant relationship with Yahweh that had developed following the failure of the promises of the earlier prophets.As affirmed by Malachi, the loving relationship between Israel and Yahweh is a covenant condition not a covenant cost.He sought therefore, to dispute orientation based on cause and effect theology. 41Indeed, he enforces the claims of the law, but only to the extent that its forms are an expression of that spirit.Malachi's style of disputation with his audience no doubt helps one to appreciate the different and distinctive concerns of the book.

C LITERARY STYLE, STRUCTURE AND THEME
Scholars have generally noted that what is distinctive about the book of Malachi is its literary style. 42It could be that on account of the cynicism and disappointment of the people and consequently lack of respect for their covenant with Yahweh, Malachi utilises an appealing technique in his attempt to bring Yahweh's concern to the people.Several labels have been given to the literary style with which he communicates with his audience: disputation, 43 covenant 38 Assis, "Structure and Meaning," 356. 39 lawsuit, 44 confrontational dialogue, 45 and catechetical format. 46It is noted that the question and answer technique used by Malachi in order to articulate his message is particularly noteworthy because of its rationalised, didactic cast.It is a pattern that is strictly followed in all the six oracle units making up the prophecy, and serves to make crystal clear what exactly the failure of the people is and why they continue to undergo the punishments looming upon them as covenant breakers. 47Although Malachi was not the first to utilise this question and answer technique, 48 the question and answer schema is more extensive in Malachi than any other OT documents.
As one deeply involved in his community and obviously affected by what he experienced, Malachi confronted immediate community circumstances and the community in turn, disheartened, resentful, and doubtful reacted by questioning all that he said.This indeed enables one to see prophetic process at work. 49Regardless of whatever characterisation that one gives to the oracles of Malachi, almost all scholars are unanimous on the division of the book into six distinct oracles, a superscription and an epilogue. 50The epilogue (Mal 3:22-24 [MT] 4:4-6 [ET]), as some has argued consists of two separate appendices (Mal 3:22 [MT] 4:4 [ET] and 3:23-24[MT] 4:5-6 [ET]) generally regarded to be a later redactional addition. 51The book's six distinct oracles are structured in various forms: speech format, 52 dialogue framework, 53 concentric outline, 54 chiastic pattern, 55 parenetic speech to the clergy and people inviting them to show adequate respect for Yahweh. 56The various oracles present disputations of the prophet on behalf of Yahweh with the people.Each oracle contains a claim of the people that is closely refuted by the prophet.Of interest is the fact that there are no recognisable formulae indicating the opening or closing of any of the oracles.The divisions are thus based on thematic distinctions only. 57though the diversity of thematic connections have been noted within the Book of the Twelve, 58 "the principal themes of the whole book are those of covenant-election, fidelity and infidelity, fertility and infertility, turning and returning, justice of God and mercy of God, the kingship of God, the place of his dwelling (Temple/Mt.Zion), the nations as enemies, the nations as allies." 59he book of Malachi emphasises a number of primary as well as other secondary theological ideas.While one may find it difficult to contend that one essential theme summarises the entire message of the book, 60 thematic ideas that are noticeable in the book of Malachi includes the unifying theme of the Day of Yahweh, 61 found in the book of the Twelve including covenant, temple worship and ministerial integrity, and the concern for justice. 62These primary themes in Malachi's message are used by the prophet to challenge his people to identify and put into practice the ethical requirements of their covenant relationship with Yahweh.These themes have no doubt, mapped out the book as a literary masterpiece with unbiased conformity with the thematic thread of the Book of the Twelve.In the following sections the theme of covenant in the book of Malachi is placed in perspective.

D ANALYSIS OF COVENANT THEMES IN MALACHI
The key concepts of the prophets of the Second Temple or post-exilic era provided an alternative perspective on the catastrophe of destruction and exile.It includes the renewal of Israel, return and restoration, and renewal of covenant with Yahweh.Malachi's mission was that of reinforcing his people's belief and confidence in Yahweh and reminding them of their responsibilities as members of covenant community with Yahweh.Indeed the concept of the Covenant of Israel is fundamental to Malachi's message.It is a dominant theme in the book. 63From a theological stand point, the essential components of this Second Temple or post-exilic prophecy are the personhood of Yahweh -the God of Israel, Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel, and the all pervasive message of unreserved and enthusiastic personal response of Israel to the truth assertions of the prophetic voice. 64e word b e rîth, from the Hebrew translated "covenant," has been defined as an elevated relationship of obligation under oath. 65John Lundquist considers it to be "a formal, ritually enacted ceremony mediated by the prophet or king in the temple, a ceremony in which the community is founded through the people's indexical acceptance of the revealed law." 66b e rîth "covenant" according to Kessler, has its origins in close relation to the concept of a "bond, fetter, or obligation" existing between two individuals or groups."The concept of covenant does, generally speaking, denote some kind of solemn bond or link between two parties."Covenants were made in a variety of contexts: social, political, and religious.They could be arrangements between individuals, families, clans, or nations.They were generally not made between total strangers.But they served to solidify and regulate already existing, functional relationships (cf.Gen 21:22-34; 26:26-33; 31:43-55).They included oaths of various forms and of varying durations. 67Gary Knoppers, though defines covenant as "a formal agreement involving two parties," holds that covenant is a subject of a diversity of shapes in a diversity of historical contexts that defy adequate 63 Assis, "Structure and Meaning," 355; Redditt, Haggai, 156; Wallace and Mackenzie, "Covenant Themes," 558. 64Hill, Malachi, 42. 65 Hugenberger, Marriage as a Covenant, 11. 66 John M. Lundquist, "Temple, Covenant, and Law in the Ancient Near East and in the Old Testament," in Israel's Apostasy and Restoration (ed.Avraham Gileadi;  Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1988), 293-306 (295). 67 Kessler, Old Testament Theology, 179-180.definition. 68Richard Wells gives a definition of covenant that provides the individual an intimate fellowship in which Yahweh's presence is established in its entire dimension of the relationship along with commitment and obligations: It is of course well-established that various legal, contractual agreements were known in the ancient world, and that many of the essential features of these covenants appear in various biblical contexts.However, the biblical covenant is not merely a legal device. . . .It is a legal transaction for which there is no analogy in the circle of experience precisely because it is not, strictly speaking, legal.It is personal and relational, as well as regulative, judicial, normative, and obligatory. 69ile the meaning and function of b e rîth may be complicated in the Bible, René Lopez notes: When between men, it could mean treaty (as with Jacob and Laban in Genesis 31:44), constitution between official and subject (as with David and Abner in 2 Samuel 3:12-13, 21), pledge (as with Jehoiada and captains in 2 Kings 11:4), alliance of friendship (as with David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 18:3), alliance of marriage (as in Malachi 2:14).When between God and man, it could mean alliance of friendship (as in Psalm 25:14) or covenant as a divine constitution or ordinance with signs or pledges (as in Genesis 9:9-17; Exodus 19:5).Sometimes God even makes a b e rîth with stones, beasts of the field (Job 5:23), and Leviathan (40:28).And Isaiah speaks of a b e rîth Israelites made with death. 70 the following sections, the implications of Yahweh's covenant love for Israel (Mal 1:2-5) is examined along with the three clear references to covenant in the book of Malachi: the levitical covenant (Mal 2:4, 8), the covenant of our fathers (Mal 2:10) and the marriage covenant (Mal 2:14).

Yahweh's Covenant Love for Israel
Of Malachi's several terminologies that are associated with the key concept of covenant is 'ahabh ("love").Malachi's first disputation begins with a short, but significant statement: "I have loved you, says the Lord" (1:2).The word 'ahabh occurs three times in Mal 1:2.It equals that of Zechariah and stands as the most frequently used term in the book of the Twelve with the exception of Hosea.The use of the word, grounded in Deuteronomy, conveys the idea of covenant love, in addition to the overall idea of election, since Israel was chosen by 68  Yahweh (Deut 7:8) as against Edom. 71While this statement receives no further explanation, it summarises Israel's entire history of Covenant. 72If one considers covenant as always at Yahweh's order and on his initiative, then the ethos of the covenant will be an ethos of grace. 73e relationship between Yahweh and Israel that was sealed by covenant at Sinai following Yahweh's great deliverance at the Red Sea is expressed by the Sinai Covenant Theology.Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel at Sinai constitutes the theological centre of the body of OT literature described as Deuteronomic (or Deuteronomistic) expressed basically in the books of Deuteronomy and Joshua through 2 Kings, as well as in certain prophetic books and psalms.The making of the covenant is also described in Exod 19-24 and 32-34, although the language of these passages differs from that of Deuteronomy.74 The phrase, " Keeping Yahweh's commandments, statutes, and ordinances" (Deut 6:1, 3, cf.Deut 4:23; 5:1, 22; 6:3-4; 7:11-12) stresses Israel's ongoing responsibility to live in faithfulness to the terms of the covenant in order to continue to enjoy its benefits and to maintain the nations' relationship with Yahweh in good order.75 Thus, Israel understood that, should they violate the covenant, the nation could be visited with variety of misfortunes, even complete destruction (Deut 6:15; 7:4; 9:8, 19; 28:58-68).Prophetic preaching in the OT is saturated with language concerning Israel's covenantal duties and consequences of covenant violation.This is why the prophets are sometimes referred to as "covenant enforcers."76 The precise formula that summarises covenant theology in the OT, "I will be your God, and you will be my people," emphases Yahweh's volition in the relationship, not Israel.The invitation to a covenant is grounded on the great divine acts of the past which Israel has herself experienced; a relationship that is better referred to as election.77 While the dating of the election tradition has extensively engrossed scholarly dialogue, Israel is Yahweh's nakhala ("inheritance" Deut 4:20; 9:26), segulla ("possession" or "property" Deut 7:6; 14:2; 26:18; cf.Mal 3:17), a word used to describe Israel as Yahweh's people, and khelaq ("portion" Deut 32:9), all of which imply divine election.78 A parade presentation of the doctrine of Yahweh's election of Israel is seen in Deut 26, and its core in Deut 7:6.Yahweh's love for Israel caused him to act unilaterally in choosing Israel to be his people (Deut 1:31; 7:8; 14:1-2).The greatest demonstration of that election was their deliverance from Egypt and initiation of a covenant with them (Mic 6:1-8; Jer 2).Thus the doctrine of election finds its most concrete expression in the OT language of covenant.79 Yahweh's pronouncement of love toward Israel constitutes the basic foundation of everything Malachi had to say in criticism of Israel subsequent to this declaration of love.80 This declaration of Yahweh's covenant love echoes the words of the prophet Hosea (3:1; 11:1; 14:5).In Hosea, the word conveys the image of unfaithfulness, used in the context of Israel chasing other lovers (2:2f.).He declares Yahweh's covenant love for his people despite their unfaithfulness (3:1).While Hosea uses the terminology of the Exodus narrative to illustrate Yahweh's compassion for Israel, Malachi utilises the traditions concerning Isaac's two sons (Gen 25:19-34; 27:1-45; 32:1-33).
The prophet employs the language of love and hatred to set God's preferential love and kindness toward Israel in quick relief. 81However, Malachi's interlocutors' shocking question, "How have you loved us?" stands at the background of what is perceived to be unrealised expectations of Yahweh's promised restoration and love.Their response indicates that they had long heard these promises of love, but had witnessed little manifestation of it in their lives.What Malachi offers as evidence of Yahweh's love is the current and existing situation of Edom. 82While by Malachi's time, Edom had been desolated, Edom's "just-deserts" for Malachi represent clear evidence of Yahweh's covenantal love for Israel. 83It must be noted too that while Malachi's assertion of Yahweh's exclusive covenant love for Israel is made in the midst of an internal dispute; he hopes to persuade his people Israel to give due glory and honour to Yahweh who freely extends mercy with unconditional love and whose magnificence extends far beyond territorial limits (Mal 1:5). 84fferings.While Yahweh's contempt for the priesthood is repeated throughout the unit (1:6, 10; 2:1-2, 3), and his disapproval with their imperfect, blemished and defiled offerings noticeable (1:7-8, 9-11, 12-14), the cause of his anger shifts from the precise issue of covenant sacrifice to the wider failings of the priests as keepers and instruction of the covenant (2:7-9). 86e underlying and cohesive idea of this oracle is the violation of Yahweh's covenant with Levi (b e rîth ʼeth-lēwî "my covenant with Levi" 2:4 and b e rîth hallēwî "covenant of Levi" 2:8).These are phrases which seem to lack any direct historical allusion.As observed by Hill, the Bible nowhere records the establishment of this covenant between Yahweh and Levi, the eponymous ancestor of the Levitical priesthood. 87However, commentators have argued over the probable historical settings of Malachi's reference, in the long run proposing two pentateuchal locations and one from the prophets (Num 25:11-13; Deut 33:8-11; Jer 33:20-21). 88That Malachi calls this covenant Levitical rather than Aaronic (via Phinehas) stems from the aforementioned subordination of the priesthood to the house of Levi." 89 Contrarily, in their attempt to look for the origins of Malachi's reference to the covenant of Levi, Wallace and Mackenzie discard the pentateuchal allusion to Number 25:11-13, believed to be Yahweh's covenant with Aaron (via Phinehas); Deuteronomy 33:8-11 that indicates Yahweh's compact with Israel as a whole and where the obligations of the Levites to Moses' Torah are explained; and opt for more possible link with Deut 28:1-2, 15 and Leviticus 26:3, 14-32 in the light of the provisional curses' formula reflected in Malachi (2:2-3). 90llowing Glazier-McDonald in connection to Numbers' allusion of Malachi's reference to the covenant of Levi, an expanded explanation needs to be provided such that encompasses the broader understanding of the priestly obedience demonstrated by the priestly duties listed in Numbers and reflected by Malachi.While the responsibilities of the Levites are not examined specifically with the term "covenant," their role and responsibilities are made very explicit in Numbers 3-4. 91Although it is difficult to create a distinction between priests and Levi/sons of Levi (kōhănîm and lēwî/b e nê-ēwî) both priests and Levites have the same responsibilities of altar functions and proper pedagogical instruction.The distinction then is not of function but that of attitude.Hill,Malachi,206. 88 LeCureux, Thematic Unity, 214. 89In her examination of verbal parallels, Glazier-McDonald suggests that Num 25:11-13 forms at least part of the background for Malachi's reference.". . . it may be posited that Mal 2:4-5 is based on Num 25:12f."Malachi,[79][80] Wallace and Mackenzie, "Covenant Themes," 550-51.91 LeCureux, Thematic Unity, 215.rary degenerate clergy. 92In this regards, the relationship between the Levi as a personified figure and Yahweh is illustrated in the form of covenant relationship.Malachi thus describes their mutual identity and corporate obligation, in addition to their culpability under the covenantal relationship they have with Yahweh. 93 While up to this point, Malachi has criticised the priests with great rhetorical flair for their malpractices in the cultic rituals, when describing the idyllic levite-priest, his emphasis on sacrifice is incorporated into the wider role of Torah instruction.As Stuart notes: Three principal elements that constitute what a priest who truly fears God is supposed to be like: (1) truthful and accurate teaching on the law and rendering of legal decisions ('true law was in his mouth and no iniquity was found on his lips'), (2) full and consistent obedience in various tasks ('perfectly and consistently he served me'), and (3) preservation of the holiness of God's people ('and he turned many from sin'). 94e priests have been unfaithful to their covenant.Their violations of these covenant ideals and the coming covenant curses (2:1-3) become the basic concerns of the second oracle (Mal 1:6-2:9).

Covenant of our Fathers (berîth ʼăbhōthênû)
Following his expression of judgement against the priests, Malachi immediately appeals to all Israelites by calling attention to their common covenantal heritage.The interrogative question in Mal 2:10, 95 presents a remarkable and mutual self-indictment.Why it is difficult to determine what could have constituted the exact origin and remarkable ancestor of the "covenant of our fathers," 96 the statement is a reflection of the people's universalistic ideology and philosophy of equality between all people and nations.Everyone is an offspring of one single man, and as a result everyone is equal.Here, the covenant 92 LeCureux, Thematic Unity, 215.See also, Lena-Sofia Tiemeyer, Priestly Rites and Prophetic Rage: Post-exilic Prophetic Critique of the Priesthood (FAT 2/19; Tubingen: Mohr Siebeck, 2006), 129. 93 Stuart, "Malachi," 1314-1315. 94Stuart, "Malachi," 1320.
95 "Do we not all have one father?Has not one God created us?Why do we deal treacherously each against his brother so as to profane the covenant of our fathers?"(NASV). 96Wallace and Mackenzie hold that in Malachi, ʼăbhōthênû (our fathers) could have been the Sinai/Horeb generation and that the text could be intentionally uncertain, in light of all the covenants indicated as proxy to the initial Yahweh's covenant election of Israel as a nation.Wallace and Mackenzie, "Covenant Themes," 551-552.
they referred to is the feeling of brotherhood and equality between all people.
In their estimation, it is this covenant that is being violated. 97e interrogative question lunches the allegation against the people for their infidelity and treachery against fellow covenant members.Such unfaithfulness is regarded to be violation and contempt for Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh, in the same manner the behaviour of the priests was violating and disregarding the Yahweh's covenant with Levi (2:8).Consequently, the infringement of these remarkable communal, mutual and shared obligations of covenant relationship that is, the failure to love fellow covenant members resulted in the infringement of their sacred obligation namely; lethargy in their love for Yahweh. 98The wider concern of this passage then, is the importance of faithfulness in all forms relationship, both with fellow human beings and with Yahweh.Faithfulness in all relationships is a part of the mortal that holds a human society together.For Israel, faithfulness toward Yahweh, reflecting his initial faithfulness, was the essential foundation upon which the very fabric of all human relationships could be established. 99This fabric was broken in Malachi and the ideological consequence was treachery to one another and unfaithfulness to Yahweh, at the same time.

4
The Covenant of Marriage The fundamental theological motif that starts and end this passage (Mal 2:10- 16) 100 is the one God who created all human beings, who was known to his people in a relationship characterised by faithfulness (Mal 2:10).This one God requires faithful unity in marriage (2:14-16).In this unit, Malachi consistently roots the covenantal sacredness of marriage in the very unity of Yahweh.This high regard for marriage is seen as an expression of commitment to the covenant, the same idea used to describe Israel's national life, in the same way the covenant of marriage rest at the heart of its social life. 101Consequently, to break the bond of marriage is to disregard the marriage covenant (Mal 2:14) while at the same time making the covenant irrelevant.This ultimately shatters the mutual and communal identity of Israel that is distinctively rooted in the Creator. 102 Malachi's time, the sanctity of marriage seems to have been grossly compromised, and with it was a massive increase in divorce and remarriages.It was a crisis that threatens to destroy the singular uniqueness of Israel, namely its identity as a chosen people under pagan domination.Malachi's concern was not just one of Jewish men marrying pagan women, but also that of divorcing their Jewish wives "by covenant" in preference of foreign wives.Malachi sets the gravity of this covenant violation side by side divorce and violence (Mal 2:16).From Malachi human and theological point of view, to break such a bond of unity is a rejection of the oneness of Yahweh's gracious and commanding nature.Infidelity to one's spouse constitutes nothing less than a violation of Yahweh's commandment, a violation that unavoidably makes its route to Yahweh's altar (Mal 2:13-14). 103Those who could so quickly abandon the covenant of marriage for personal gain could also quickly abandon their covenant relationship with Yahweh.These again are both acts of unfaithfulness.104

E THEOLOGICAL SYNTHESIS AND CONCLUSION
What positive theological content is there to this theme of covenant?From the above analysis, it clear that the theme of covenant dominates in all the first three oracles and there is a connection between these oracles and the last three.The first oracle -salvation oracle (1:2-5) reflects a crisis in the covenantal relationship between Yahweh and Israel.This oracle is vitally connected with the third oracle -speech of exhortation (2:10-16), in which Judean men are criticised for violating their marriage covenant with their Jewish wives (2:11, 14-16), and for adopting a universal ideology of covenant between all humans (2:10). 105In the second oracle (1:6-2:9), Yahweh is faithful and the priests are not; they have failed to conduct the sacrificial cult in accordance with the institutional requirements just because of the fact that they have corrupted the Levitical covenant (2:5, 8).As the second oracle in the first part of the book of Malachi, this oracle deals with the sacrificial cult and it is vitally connected with the fifth oracle that stands at the middle of the last three oracles.As Stuart notes, the issues at the heart of the fifth oracle are certainly related to those of the fourth (and second and third as well) disputation, but the connection of 3:6-7 to 2:17-3:5 is a matter of topic rather than form. 106The subject matter of the fifth oracle (3:7-12) is the cultic ritual.In these two cultic oracles, Malachi's accusations against the priests and the people are similar."In both, the argument is that they do not properly observe a religious precept, sacrifices or tithes."107However, a connection exists between the fifth oracle and the fourth and sixth oracles: they all deal with the concept of Yahweh's justice.The fourth oracle (2:17-3:6), from the perspective of the people deals with Yahweh's failure to judge evildoers and sixth oracle (3:13-21) resumes the topic which was basic in 2:17-3:6 namely, Yahweh's ability to judge evildoers.In their opinion, it is profitless to worship Yahweh, since the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer.These two are on a conjectural level while the fifth oracle serves as an application of Yahweh's justice in relation to ritual.108 Malachi's interlocutors have expressed misgivings regarding Yahweh's faithfulness to them as covenant partner in need.Malachi responded by expounding the history of Esau/Edom in the past, present and future, which shows Yahweh's unconditional commitment and faithfulness to Israel forevermore.Yahweh's commitment to his people through the covenant is further stressed: "For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed" (3:6 NASV).The verse serves as appropriate transition verse, establishing both judgement and blessing in Yahweh's unfailing character.Malachi's affirmation that Yahweh has not changed should not be regarded primarily as a metaphysical statement, a theological commentary on the nature of Yahweh's being.Rather, the prophet's attests to Yahweh's faithfulness to his covenant agreement with Israel.Yahweh has not changed the agreement, but has remained committed and faithful to his oath of loyalty.The corollary to Yahweh's unchanging nature is the perpetual preservation of Israel.109Yahweh's endurance with a covenant-breaking Israel is also demonstrated in Malachi 3:7.Here Israel is considered guilty of covenant violation, a disappointment that is compounded by the contrast of Yahweh's previously stated covenant fidelity (3:6).By mentioning the name of their forefathers, Malachi equates the present condition of his interlocutors with those of their pre-exilic, unfaithful covenant violating fathers.
The moral force behind Malachi's accusations against the nation is grounded upon Yahweh's unchangeable character.From a theological abstraction, Yahweh's changelessness is cast in terms of its effects, namely the call to moral integrity and acceptable worship is a call to steadfast fidelity in practice.An inversion of justice, whereby the wicked prosper, gave rise to the question of where Yahweh is in the face of moral contradiction.Where the laments of the psalmists and prophets worked hand in hand to relieve the problem of human suffering, Malachi finds only deep-rooted cynicism behind the complaints of the priests and people.Both the priests and people, subject Yahweh to their tiresome complaints about Yahweh's governance over the world.From Malachi's point of view, their complaint of injustice is the height of hypocrisy: they are benefiting from new sexual relationships (2:11, 14-16), from negligent priestly standards (1:7-14), and from showing favouritism in judgement (2:6-9). 110 In the face of declining and distressing situations arising from the violation of their covenant relationship with Yahweh, Malachi clearly puts together a logical, comprehensible and justifiable defence for Yahweh's justice and sovereignty, which makes plain the necessity of the advent of the messenger of the covenant and the inevitability of Yahweh's Day in which all of society shall be judged and transformed. 111The list of sins, spanning from religious to the social, integrates and overwhelmed the entire community life, whose centre is the very precincts of the one and only temple of the Lord of hosts.The effects of deceitful and false worship against which Malachi protested in 1:7-14 have overwhelmed the entire community.Like his prophetic predecessors, Malachi sees worship and justice as inseparably bound together.Thus worship is not true worship except it pursues justice for the widow, orphan, and foreigner (3:5). 112Yahweh's justice, although not currently manifest, will become visible in the future, and the people are particularly enjoined to faithfully observe the unique Israelite rituals embedded in their covenant relationship with Yahweh.
To this end, it can be concluded, that covenant relationship, as the central and cohesive theological motif connecting and coordinating several themes in the book of Malachi as well as illuminating its message, is indeed a theological datum of substance.
Grabbe, A History of the Jews and Judaism in the Second Temple Period Distribution and Demography" in Temple and Community in the Persian Period (vol. 2 of Second Temple Studies; ed.Eskenazi C. Tamara and Richards, H. Kent, JSOTSup 175; Sheffield: JSOT Press, 1994), 106-145; Oded Lipschits, "Demographic Changes in Judah between the Seventh and Fifth Centuries B.C.E.," in Judah and the Judeans in the Neo-Babylonian Period (ed.Oded Lipschits and Joseph Blenkinsopp; Winona Lake, Ind.: Eisenbranus, 2003), 323-376; Oded Lipschits, The Fall and Rise of Jerusalem: Judah under Babylonian Rule (Winona Lake, Ind.: Eisenbranus, 2005), 261-271; John Kessler, "Images of Exile: Representations of the 'Exile' and 'Empty Land' in Sixth to Fourth Century B.C.E.Yehudite Literature," in The Concept of Exile in Ancient Israel and Its Historical Contexts (ed.Ehud Ben Zvi and Christopher Levin; BZAW 404; Berlin: Walter de Gruyter, 2010), 309-351; Kyong-Jin Lee, The Authority and Authorization of the Torah in the Persian Period(CBET 64; Leuven: Peeters,  2011), 163.
43Whether the disputation was rooted in some actual social context of dialogue and debate, or whether it is merely a literary form to communicate a message, remains uncertain, although the latter is most probably the case.Craigie, Twelve, 227.See  also, Elizabeth Achtemeier, Nahum -Malachi (Atlanta: John Knox, 1986), 172;  Clendenen, "Malachi," 219.