Malachi was a biblical prophet whose name is interpreted to mean "my messenger." He is recognized as the author of the final book in the Nevi'im section of the Tanakh. While some scholars suggest the name might be a pseudonym or a title for a messenger, Jewish tradition often identifies him as the scribe Ezra. He likely lived during the Persian period, possibly prophesying around the time of Nehemiah or shortly after the reconstruction of the Second Temple.