0

How can God hate? (Malachi 1:2-3)

Malachi 1:1-2

AMP - 1 THE BURDEN or oracle (the thing to be lifted up) of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi [My messenger]. 2 "I have loved you," says the Lord. "Yet you say, 'How and in what way have You loved us? Was not Esau Jacob's brother?'" says the Lord; "Yet I loved Jacob" (Israel).

Malachi 1:1 - 14

AMP - 1 THE BURDEN or oracle (the thing to be lifted up) of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi [My messenger]. 2 I have loved you, says the Lord. Yet you say, How and in what way have You loved us? Was not Esau Jacob's brother? says the Lord; yet I loved Jacob (Israel).

Clarify Share Report Asked December 30 2023 Mini Anonymous

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

3
Mini Paula Fether Supporter Lifelong student of the scriptures
The Bible abounds in hyperbole (exaggeration) and makes frequent use of synecdote (a figure of speech where a part of something is used to refer to the whole). In this case, Jacob and Esau refer to the nations that came from them, and love/hate describe which people are "chosen" and which are not.

Though God certainly disciplined Israel many times, and though he also had promised blessings to the descendants of Esau, only one line was chosen to inherit the promises and privileges God made to Abraham.

December 31 2023 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining