Institution: | Texas Christian University |
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Department: | |
Year: | 2014 |
Keywords: | Xerxes I, King of Persia, 519 B.C.-465 B.C. or 464 B.C. |
Record ID: | 2046805 |
Full text PDF: | https://repository.tcu.edu/handle/116099117/4531 |
Malachi contains a substantial amount of messenger language, imagery, and vocabulary. When one uses a reconstruction of ancient Persian royal messengers to construct an interpretive lens for reading the text, it becomes apparent that Malachi exhibits a root messenger metaphor from whence the many individual metaphors and decorations derive. This presentation of the book suggests that Malachi's historical context is the early reign of Xerxes, a time when the Persian emperor was constantly sending royal heralds throughout the known world. Malachi's form is best seen as a royal message (from YHWH, the Great King).