This week we are reading Malachi’s third disputation which covers Malachi 2:10-16. The disputation is short and to the point. Israelite men are divorcing their Israelite wives to marry pagan women and God is not pleased!
While the second disputation targeted the priesthood, the third disputation addresses the whole community. Malachi’s disputations often begin with a question where the answer is a presumed “yes.” Malachi asks, “Have we not all one father? Has not one God created us?” (2:10). By reminding the people that Yahweh is their heavenly father, the prophet is highlighting their unique bond as a nation under divine headship. Yet, the people are too self-absorbed to uphold even their most committed attachments, like marriage.
