Topical Encyclopedia The term "abominable" in the Bible is used to describe actions, practices, or things that are detestable and loathsome in the sight of God. It often refers to idolatry, immoral acts, and other behaviors that are contrary to God's commandments and holiness. The concept of abomination is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the seriousness with which God views sin and impurity.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word most commonly translated as "abominable" or "abomination" is "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah). This term is frequently used in the context of idolatry and false worship. For example, in Deuteronomy 7:25-26, the Israelites are commanded to destroy the idols of the nations they conquer: "You must burn up the carved images of their gods. Do not covet the silver or gold that is on them, or take it for yourselves, lest you be ensnared by it, for it is detestable to the LORD your God. And you must not bring an abomination into your house, or you will be set apart for destruction like it. You are to utterly detest and abhor it, because it is set apart for destruction." The term is also used to describe various moral and ritual impurities. Leviticus 18:22, for instance, states, "You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination." This highlights the moral laws given to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity and holiness. New Testament Usage In the New Testament, the Greek word "βδέλυγμα" (bdelugma) is used to convey the idea of abomination. This term appears in contexts that often relate to idolatry and false worship. In the Book of Revelation, the term is used to describe the idolatrous practices of Babylon: "And on her forehead a mysterious name was written: Babylon the Great, the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth" (Revelation 17:5). Jesus also uses the concept of abomination in His teachings. In Matthew 24:15, He refers to the "abomination of desolation" spoken of by the prophet Daniel, which is a prophetic warning about sacrilegious acts that would occur in the holy place: "So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’ described by the prophet Daniel (let the reader understand)." Theological Implications The use of "abominable" in the Bible underscores the gravity of sin and the importance of holiness. It serves as a warning to God's people to avoid practices that are detestable to Him and to live in accordance with His commandments. The concept of abomination is closely tied to the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience and purity are essential for maintaining fellowship with Him. Cultural and Historical Context Understanding the cultural and historical context of what was considered abominable in biblical times is crucial. Many of the practices labeled as abominations were common among the surrounding nations, and the Israelites were called to be distinct and separate from these influences. This separation was not only physical but also spiritual, as they were to reflect the holiness of God in their worship and daily lives. Conclusion The term "abominable" in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and the call for His people to live in holiness and obedience. It highlights the need for discernment and faithfulness in worship and conduct, as well as the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Hateful; detestable; loathsome; worthy of, or causing, abhorrence, as a thing of evil omen; odious in the utmost degree; execrable.2. (a.) Excessive; large; -- used as an intensive. Greek 947. bdeluktos -- detestable ... detestable. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: bdeluktos Phonetic Spelling: (bdel-ook-tos') Short Definition: abominable, detestable Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/947.htm - 6k 948. bdelussomai -- to detest 111. athemitos -- lawless 946. bdelugma -- a detestable thing 4767. stugetos -- hateful Strong's Hebrew 8581. taab -- to abhor... from toebah Definition to abhor NASB Word Usage abhor (5), abhorred (3), abhorrent (1), abhors (1), acted...abominably (2), committed abominable (2), despise (1 ... /hebrew/8581.htm - 6k 8441. toebah -- abomination 8251. shiqquts -- detested thing 8262. shaqats -- to detest, make detestable 2194. zaam -- to be indignant 8442. toah -- a wandering, error 6292. piggul -- foul thing, refuse 8263. sheqets -- detestation, detestable thing Library The Abominable Error of the Heretics; the Divine vision of ... Then that Abominable one Will Send his Commands Throughout Every ... Deceased was Now that My Evil and Abominable Youth... Argument: the Religion of the Christians is Foolish, Inasmuch as ... Several Other Things Turned against the Same Mathematicians. Further Exposure of the Wicked and Blasphemous Doctrines of the ... Psalm LIII. On Helping the Poor. V. ... The Return of the Holy Family from Egypt Thesaurus Abominable (52 Occurrences)... degree; execrable. 2. (a.) Excessive; large; -- used as an intensive. Multi-Version Concordance Abominable (52 Occurrences). Titus 1 ... /a/abominable.htm - 23k Repulsive (7 Occurrences) Abominably (3 Occurrences) Detestable (121 Occurrences) Abomination (78 Occurrences) Corrupt (59 Occurrences) Kidron (11 Occurrences) Lasciviousness (9 Occurrences) Grandmother (3 Occurrences) Ma'acah (22 Occurrences) Resources What is the Queen James Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is an abomination? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about bestiality? | GotQuestions.org Abominable: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Abominable (52 Occurrences)Titus 1:16 1 Peter 4:3 Revelation 17:4 Revelation 21:8 Exodus 8:26 Leviticus 7:18 Leviticus 7:21 Leviticus 11:43 Leviticus 18:30 Leviticus 19:7 Leviticus 20:25 Deuteronomy 7:26 Deuteronomy 12:31 Deuteronomy 14:3 Deuteronomy 18:9 Deuteronomy 18:12 Deuteronomy 20:18 Deuteronomy 32:16 1 Kings 15:13 2 Kings 16:3 2 Kings 21:2 1 Chronicles 21:6 2 Chronicles 15:8 2 Chronicles 15:16 2 Chronicles 28:3 2 Chronicles 33:2 Job 15:16 Psalms 14:1 Psalms 53:1 Proverbs 20:10 Proverbs 29:27 Isaiah 14:19 Isaiah 65:4 Isaiah 66:17 Jeremiah 16:18 Jeremiah 44:4 Ezekiel 4:14 Ezekiel 7:20 Ezekiel 8:10 Ezekiel 11:21 Ezekiel 16:25 Ezekiel 16:50 Ezekiel 16:52 Ezekiel 18:13 Ezekiel 18:24 Ezekiel 22:2 Ezekiel 23:36 Ezekiel 36:31 Hosea 9:10 Micah 3:9 Micah 6:10 Nahum 3:6 Subtopics Related Terms |