“But you profane it
When you say
That Yahweh’s table
Is polluted.
Thus,
The food for it
May be despised.
‘What a weariness this is.’
You say.
‘You sniff at me.’
Says Yahweh of hosts.
‘You bring what has been taken
By violence,
Or is lame,
Or sick.
This you bring
As your offering!
Shall I accept that
From your hand?’
Says Yahweh.
‘Cursed be the cheat,
Who has a male in his flock!
If he vows to give it,
Yet sacrifices to Yahweh
What is blemished!
I am a great King!’
Says Yahweh of hosts.
‘My name is revered
Among the nations.’”
These priests have profaned the name of Yahweh. They have polluted Yahweh’s table. They have brought despised food to Yahweh’s altar. They were tired, weary, and sniffing at Yahweh. They brought offerings that had been violated, lame, or sick. Should Yahweh accept these blemished offerings? No, he should curse those who vowed to bring sacrificial offerings, but instead cheated him by bringing blemished animals. Yahweh was a great king whose name was revered throughout the whole world, among all the countries.
Eugene Finnegan Bible Project 