King James Version

What Does Malachi 2:15 Mean?

And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth. residue: or, excellency godly: Heb. seed of God treacherously: or, unfaithfully

Context

13

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.

14

Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.

15

And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth. residue: or, excellency godly: Heb. seed of God treacherously: or, unfaithfully

16

For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. that he: or, if he hate her, put her away putting: Heb. to put away

17

Ye have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied him? When ye say, Every one that doeth evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delighteth in them; or, Where is the God of judgment?

Topics in This Verse

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(15, 16) These are two very difficult verses, which should perhaps, be rendered as follows:— *For did He not make* [man and his wife, Genesis 2:24] *one? and has he* [the husband] *any superiority of spirit* [that he should divorce at will]? *And what is this* [pair which is become] *one?* [Answer.] *It seeketh a godly seed. Therefore take heed to yourselves* [literally, *your spirit*]*, and with respect to the wife of thy youth*—*Let none be faithless.*

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Malachi. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Malachi 2:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Malachi 2:15

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge