Although the priests are addressed specifically in this verse, it becomes evident from the following verses the people were also guilty of this sin. Nevertheless, the priests are addressed here. For, as appointed leaders in Israel, they had the duty to correct the error of the people by teaching them what the law of God requires (Leviticus 10:11, Deuteronomy 33:10). Because they failed in their duty as leaders, the greater portion of the blame falls upon them.
6 “A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear? says the LORD of hosts to you, O priests, who despise my name. But you say, ‘How have we despised your name?’