In the biblical context, "detestable things" and "abominations" refer to practices, objects, or behaviors that are considered abhorrent and offensive to God. These terms are frequently used throughout the Scriptures to describe actions that are contrary to God's holiness and righteousness.

Old Testament Context

The Hebrew word often translated as "abomination" is "toebah," which signifies something that is morally repugnant or loathsome. In the Old Testament, God explicitly outlines various practices that are considered abominations, particularly in the context of the Mosaic Law. These include idolatry, sexual immorality, and unjust practices.

1. Idolatry: One of the most frequently mentioned abominations is the worship of idols. In Deuteronomy 7:25-26 , God commands the Israelites to destroy the carved images of other nations, stating, "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."

2. Sexual Immorality: Leviticus 18 outlines various sexual practices that are considered abominations, including incest, adultery, and homosexuality. Leviticus 18:22 states, "You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination."

3. Unjust Practices: Proverbs 11:1 highlights dishonest scales as an abomination: "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This underscores God's disdain for deceit and injustice in business and personal dealings.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not use the term "abomination" as frequently as the Old Testament, the concept remains significant. Jesus and the apostles reiterate the importance of holiness and the rejection of practices that are detestable to God.

1. Hypocrisy and False Worship: In Matthew 23, Jesus condemns the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, likening their actions to abominations. Matthew 23:27-28 states, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."

2. Idolatry and Immorality: The Book of Revelation warns against idolatry and immorality, describing them as abominations. Revelation 21:8 lists those who will face judgment: "But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death."

Theological Significance

The concept of detestable things and abominations underscores the holiness of God and His call for His people to live set apart from the sinful practices of the world. These terms serve as a reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and the importance of obedience to His commandments. The biblical narrative consistently calls believers to reject what is detestable and to pursue righteousness, reflecting God's character in their lives.