All the people were guilty of this offense. That Isaiah , it was widespread in the nation, not that every individual Israelite was guilty necessarily. Robbing the priests and Levites of what was due them was really robbing God since they were His servants and they maintained His house, the temple. They would receive a curse from the Lord for this covenant violation ( Malachi 3:11; cf. Malachi 4:6). [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Malachi 3:1-12 - A Purging From Evil
The opening verses of this chapter stir the heart like the call of a trumpet. We remember how literally they were fulfilled in the presentation of our Lord in the Temple by His parents. Unnoticed by the crowds, jostled amid the press, borne in the arms of poverty, the King suddenly came to His Temple, even the Messenger of the Covenant. Only two faithful retainers, Simeon and Anna, were there to welcome Him. But there is another and more personal reference. Let us keep the doors of our hearts wide open to the coming of the King. There may be no blare of trumpet, no flash of jewel, no cry of herald, but into your heart's secret shrine He will come. Is not this just what we need? Make haste, great Lord of all, and in our poor hearts do thy blessed work, that we may be refined as gold and silver, and offer to thee an offering in righteousness. Then will it be a delight to bring all the tithes into the storehouse. [source]
Chapter Summary: Malachi 3
1Of the messenger, majesty, and grace of Christ 7Of the rebellion, 8sacrilege, 13and infidelity of the people 16The promise of blessing to those who fear God
What do the individual words in Malachi 3:9 mean?
With a curseYouare cursedfor Mehave robbednation[Even] this whole
Parse: Conjunctive waw, Direct object marker, first person common singular
Root: אֹות
Sense: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative.