Abstract:
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.
