Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament prophets, addresses post-exilic issues of worship and justice. It rebukes corrupt priests and indifferent worship, calls for faithfulness to God’s covenant, and looks forward to the coming "messenger" who will prepare the way.

Author: Traditionally Malachi (name means "my messenger"); the real author is anonymous (Jewish tradition sometimes identifies him with Ezra).

Date Written: Circa 450 BCE (post-exilic period).

Context: Likely written after Nehemiah (5th century BCE), Malachi confronts lax religious practice in Jerusalem and anticipates a purification before the Day of the Lord.