Definition: Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD [is] contemptible.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Malachi 1:7. It's a really powerful and important message about repentance and how we relate to God. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: What it says: “Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD [is] contemptible.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar…” – This is a metaphor. Imagine an altar is like a place where people offer something to God. “Polluted bread” means offering something that isn’t pure or good. It suggests something is tainted, flawed, or not right. “…and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee?” – This is the core of the verse. It's asking a direct question: "Have you been polluting me?" “Polluted” means corrupted, stained, or broken. It suggests something is fundamentally wrong with your heart, your actions, or your way of life. “In that ye say, The table of the LORD [is] contemptible.” – This is the crucial part. The "table of the Lord" refers to God's presence and His holiness (a very important concept in Judaism). The word “contemptible” means utterly worthless, despised, or unacceptable. It’s like saying something is so bad it’s beyond repair. So, what does this verse mean? It's essentially a warning from God to those who are not repenting . God is reminding us that we've been behaving in ways that are disrespectful and harmful to Him. We’re not living right: This verse suggests we’re engaging in behaviors – perhaps selfishness, pride, or wickedness – that are damaging to our relationship with God. Our actions are a disgrace: By offering something “polluted” (our behavior) upon His altar (God), we've shown disrespect and a lack of reverence for Him. God’s holiness is being diminished: The verse implies that if we don’t repent – change our ways and turn to God – we are diminishing the very essence of God’s holiness and perfection. In short, Malachi 1:7 is a call to repentance. It's a strong statement that if we aren't actively trying to right our wrongs and show reverence for God, we are in danger of losing our way and damaging our relationship with Him. Does this mean I need to offer polluted bread? Not necessarily literally. It’s more about the attitude and behavior – the lack of respect and purity that we're exhibiting. It’s a reminder that we need to strive to live a life that honors God, reflects His character, and is pleasing to Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of what "polluted" might look like in the context of our lives?