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Book of Malachi - Chapter 2 - Verse 11

2:11
Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the LORD which he loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange god.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Malachi highlights the themes of faithfulness, loyalty, and the importance of maintaining a pure relationship with God. Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, is being called out for their treacherous actions and the abominable practices taking place within the nation. The verse speaks to Judah's unfaithfulness to God by profaning His holiness and marrying someone who worships other gods, thus compromising their own relationship with the Lord. The imagery of marrying the daughter of a strange god symbolizes the mixing of beliefs and the dilution of true worship. This verse serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the consequences of straying from God's commandments and the importance of honoring and revering the holiness of the Lord. It calls upon believers to remain steadfast in their faith and resist the temptations of the world that may lead them astray.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Malachi, the prophet condemns the people of Judah for their unfaithfulness to the Lord. The word 'treacherously' used in this verse implies a deliberate betrayal or deceitful act. By marrying the daughter of a strange god, the people of Judah are not only forsaking their commitment to the Lord but also engaging in idolatry, which is considered an abomination in the eyes of God. This act of intermarriage with those who do not worship the one true God is seen as a profaning of the holiness of the Lord. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's faith and not allowing worldly influences to lead one astray. Through word studies, we can further understand the severity of the sin committed by the people of Judah and the consequences of their actions in terms of their relationship with God.

American Standard Version

Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of Jehovah which he loveth, and hath married the daughter of a foreign god.
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