The Prophet Malachi

By Priest Aleksandar Radunovic

This last beacon of prophetic grace in the Old Testament, shone as a star on the horizon of God’s providence, illuminating Israel before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. 


His name, which bears the meaning “angel” or “messenger,” is not only a reflection of his outward beauty but, above all, an expression of the deep purity of his soul and his ceaseless communion with the heavenly hosts.


Malachi was born after the return of the Jews from Babylonian captivity, in the tribe of Zebulun. According to tradition, his mother, a pious woman, received a revelation about his consecration to God before his birth.


Because of his unusual outward beauty and spiritual purity, the people called him an angel. It is said that he often spoke with the angel of the Lord face to face. Others could hear the angelic voice, but they were not deemed worthy to witness the heavenly presence.
The prophet rebuked the sinful deeds of the priests and the coldness of heart among the people of Israel, calling them to the fire of true faith and repentance. His life was a testimony to his unceasing dialogue with God, mediated by the presence of angels. He foretold the coming of the One who would burn away all corrupt and unworthy fruit, the One who would separate the wheat from the chaff. His words sparkle with a foretaste of eschatological light, of the day when the Sun of Righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings.


Malachi also prophesied about the coming of the great Forerunner, the voice crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord. 


His prophecies clearly point to John the Baptist and to the Messiah Himself. He passed away in his youth, around 400 years before Christ, and was buried in his homeland among his ancestors. After him, there were no prophets in Israel until the appearance of Saint John the Baptist, whom Malachi had prophetically announced.
The Holy Orthodox Church commemorates him on January 3, remembering his holy life and prophetic ministry. Malachi is also a prophet of the Day of Judgment. His prophecies carry a powerful eschatological message, pointing to the Sun of Righteousness, which will rise with healing in its wings;the Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Just as the last trumpet sound announces the end of the battle, so the prophecy of Malachi represents the final word of the Old Testament, preparing the way for the light that will illuminate all nations. His book, the last among the prophetic writings, serves as a bridge between the Old and the New Testament. 


The holy prophet left behind a guide pointing to the light of Christ, testifying that life in God is for everyone who approaches His mercy with repentance and faith.
The Holy Church honors him with prayerful remembrance and veneration, lifting hymns that glorify his purity, zeal, and dedication to God’s work. 


May the Lord, through the prayers of the holy Prophet Malachi, strengthen all who seek His truth and light!