Malachi is the last book of the Prophets, and according to rabbinic tradition, marks the end of prophecy in Israel. Speaking during the Second Temple period, Malachi criticizes the priests for their disingenuous ritual worship in the Temple and chastises the people for their infidelity to their spouses and to God. Yet he also emphasizes God's love for Israel and encourages the people to repent, describing God’s future blessings.