A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?
MALACHI 1:6KJVWhat does Malachi 1:6 mean?
Malachi 1:6 describes God speaking to the priests of Israel, questioning why they do not show Him the honor and respect that a father or master would normally receive, even though they call Him their Father and Master. God points out that the priests have been treating His name with contempt, but the priests respond by asking how they have done so.
In this verse, God is addressing the priests directly, using everyday relationships—between a son and father, and a servant and master—to highlight how natural it is to show respect in those roles. By comparing these relationships to His own with the priests, God exposes their lack of proper reverence and honor towards Him, especially in their temple duties. The priests’ question at the end shows either their ignorance or denial of their disrespectful actions.
The Hebrew behind Malachi 1:6
- "Honoureth" (כָּבֵד, kavēd): This word means to give weight, value, or respect. God uses it to show that He deserves real, substantial honor, not just empty words or rituals.
- "Despise" (בָּזָה, bazah): This word means to treat as worthless or to hold in contempt. God accuses the priests of treating His name—His reputation and character—as insignificant, which is a serious charge for those meant to lead worship.
- "Name" (שֵׁם, shem): In Hebrew thought, a name represents the whole person, their reputation and authority. To despise God’s name is to disrespect who He is, not just a title.
Why Malachi 1:6 matters
- Malachi 1:6 clarifies that God expects genuine honor and respect from those who serve Him, especially leaders, not just outward religious actions.
- This verse highlights a disconnect between the priests’ words and their actions, showing that it is possible to go through religious motions while actually disrespecting God.
- Malachi 1:6 sets the tone for the rest of the book, where God challenges the spiritual leaders of Israel to recognize and correct their attitude toward Him.