4:2 sun of righteousness. An expression unique to Malachi (cf. Ps. 84:12). The Davidic king will reign in righteousness (Is. 32:1) and will be called “a righteous Branch” (Jer. 23:5, 6).

healing. The Bible considers physical sickness and spiritual sickness or sin to be analogous. Salvation is often compared to bodily healing (Ex. 15:26; 2 Chr. 7:14; Ps. 103:3; Is. 53:5; Jer. 17:14).