2:4a
Then: The word Then in the Berean Standard Bible translates the Hebrew conjunction w-. It connects 2:3 and 2:4. Probably this connection expresses both time and result. “As a result of” the LORD’s punishment of the priests in 2:3, they would know “at that time…” Some English versions also use “so,” which can imply both time and result. Use an option which is natural here in your language.
commandment: This is the same Hebrew word which was translated as “decree” in 2:1. It highlights the theme of serious warning. 2:4 closes this paragraph, but it also introduces the reference to Levi which is expanded in the next paragraph.
2:4b
so that My covenant with Levi may continue: There was hope for these priests if they would repent and obey the LORD. The Scriptures never speak of the LORD breaking his covenant with anyone.
covenant: The word covenant is a theme word in the second chapter of Malachi and indeed through the whole book. See the discussion of this term in the Key biblical terms in the book of Malachi section in the Introduction.
Levi: The priests were all descendants of Jacob’s son Levi. If your readers do not know this, they will not understand the argument here. There are two ways to supply the information:
• Place it in the text as Good News Translation has done:
the priests, the descendants of Levi. (Good News Translation)
• Use a footnote.
Levi himself was not a priest and Scripture does not mention any specific covenant with Levi. However Numbers 25:10–13 speaks of a “covenant of peace” and a “covenant of an everlasting priesthood.” The LORD made this covenant with Phinehas, a descendant of Levi. This verse may refer to that event.
2:4c
says the LORD of Hosts: See the note on 1:6e.
the LORD of Hosts: See the note on 1:4d and 1:6e. Translate this term in the same way here.
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