Malachi 2:16
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.
Malachi 2:16 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Malachi in the Old Testament of the Bible conveys a message about the sanctity of marriage and the importance of loyalty and faithfulness in relationships. It highlights the fact that God despises divorce and the breaking of vows, as it is seen as an act of violence and treachery. The imagery of "covering violence with his garment" implies that attempting to hide or justify unfaithfulness is deceptive and unacceptable in the eyes of the Lord. The verse serves as a warning to individuals to be mindful of their actions and to not betray the trust of their partners or their commitment to the sanctity of marriage. It emphasizes the need for integrity, faithfulness, and honesty in all relationships, as these are qualities that are valued by God. Ultimately, the verse encourages individuals to uphold their vows and to treat their partners with love, respect, and fidelity.
Theological Overview
The verse "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." (Malachi 2:16) speaks to the importance of commitment in marriage and being faithful to one's partner. The phrase "putting away" refers to divorce, which the Lord explicitly states He hates. The context of "covering violence with his garment" implies that divorcing one's spouse for trivial reasons or mistreating them is equivalent to covering up violence. This verse serves as a warning to individuals to be cautious of their actions and to remain true to their marital vows. The word "treacherously" underscores the deceitful nature of breaking those vows. In essence, this verse emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the need for individuals to uphold their commitments to their spouses with integrity and faithfulness.
Malachi 2:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
For I hate putting away, saith Jehovah, the God of Israel, and him that covereth his garment with violence, saith Jehovah of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.
World English Bible
For I hate divorce”, says Yahweh, the God of Israel, “and him who covers his garment with violence!” says Yahweh of Armies. “Therefore take heed to your spirit, that you don’t deal treacherously.
Douay-Rheims
When thou shalt hate her put her away, saith the Lord, the God of Israel: but iniquity shalt cover his garment, saith the Lord of hosts, keep your spirit, and despise not.
Geneva Bible (1599)
If thou hatest her, put her away, sayeth the Lord God of Israel, yet he couereth the iniurie vnder his garment, saieth the Lord of hosts: therefore keepe your selues in your spirite, and transgresse not.