hate: God dislikes a broken promise (see Malachi 1:3; Hosea 9:15). This is fitting because God's relationship with people is based on faithfulness, and he expected the same from Israel (Exodus 34:6; Deuteronomy 7:9).
To divorce (literally send away) means to force a marriage partner to leave. Malachi wanted to address the misuse of divorce laws (see Deuteronomy 24:1–4).
covers his garment with violence: Cruelty involves acts of violence or wrongdoing. Divorce is a harsh and cruel social wrong. Divorcing one's wife is a betrayal of her and the marriage promise. It breaks hearts, destroys relationships, harms family integrity, damages children's well-being, and endangers the future.