Haggai 2:11

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Ask now the priests [concerning] the law, saying,

Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}; Ask {H7592} now the priests {H3548} concerning the law {H8451}, saying {H559},

"Here is what ADONAI-Tzva'ot says: 'Ask the cohanim what the Torah says about this:

“This is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘Ask the priests for a ruling.

Thus saith Jehovah of hosts: Ask now the priests concerning the law, saying,

Commentary

Haggai 2:11 opens a significant dialogue within the book of Haggai, as the prophet delivers a direct command from the LORD of hosts to consult the priests. This instruction sets the stage for a series of questions regarding ritual purity and its implications for the community, particularly concerning the rebuilding of the Temple in post-exilic Judah.

Context

The book of Haggai is set around 520 BC, following the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity. After an initial burst of enthusiasm, the work on rebuilding the Temple had stalled for many years, as the people prioritized their own homes and affairs (see Haggai 1:4). God, through Haggai, challenges their spiritual apathy and promises blessings contingent on their obedience and recommitment to His house. This verse initiates a crucial legal inquiry, demonstrating God's meticulous concern for holiness and the proper adherence to His commandments, particularly as interpreted by the designated religious authorities of the time.

Key Themes

  • Divine Authority and Sovereignty: The phrase "Thus saith the LORD of hosts" underscores that the command originates directly from God Himself, emphasizing His supreme authority over all creation and His people.
  • The Role of the Priesthood: The command to "Ask now the priests [concerning] the law" highlights the vital function of the priests as custodians and interpreters of the Mosaic Law. They were responsible for teaching the people God's statutes and judgments, distinguishing between the holy and the profane.
  • Purity and Obedience: This verse serves as a preamble to specific questions about ritual defilement and its impact on blessings. It establishes the principle that God's covenant people must adhere to His standards of holiness, and that actions have spiritual consequences.

Linguistic Insights

The recurring title "LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: Yahweh Sabaoth) is particularly prominent in the book of Haggai, appearing 14 times in just two chapters. This title emphasizes God's omnipotence and His command over heavenly armies and all creation. It serves to reassure the discouraged exiles that the God who leads them is powerful enough to accomplish His purposes despite their current humble circumstances, reinforcing the weight of His commands and promises.

Practical Application

Haggai 2:11 reminds us of the importance of seeking divine wisdom and understanding God's revealed will. Just as the Israelites were directed to consult the priests regarding the Law, believers today are called to diligently study God's Word and seek guidance from those who teach it faithfully. It underscores that true spiritual progress and blessing are often tied to our obedience to God's commands and our commitment to holiness. This verse sets the stage for understanding how spiritual defilement can hinder blessings, a timeless principle for all who seek to walk with God.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Leviticus 10:10

    And that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean;

  • Leviticus 10:11

    And that ye may teach the children of Israel all the statutes which the LORD hath spoken unto them by the hand of Moses.

  • Malachi 2:7

    For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is] the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

  • Deuteronomy 33:10

    They shall teach Jacob thy judgments, and Israel thy law: they shall put incense before thee, and whole burnt sacrifice upon thine altar.

  • Deuteronomy 17:8

    ¶ If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, [being] matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;

  • Deuteronomy 17:11

    According to the sentence of the law which they shall teach thee, and according to the judgment which they shall tell thee, thou shalt do: thou shalt not decline from the sentence which they shall shew thee, [to] the right hand, nor [to] the left.

  • Titus 1:9

    Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
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