The priests were to be custodians of the holy place. They were to maintain the distinction between the holy and the common (Leviticus 10:10), and lead the people in having reverence and awe before God and the things of God. The prophets that Zephaniah has in view failed in their responsibilities. They actually profaned the holy sanctuary and did violence to the Lord’s instruction (his law
).
4 Her prophets are fickle, treacherous men; her priests profane what is holy; they do violence to the law.