The term "abomination" in the Bible is used to describe things that are detestable or loathsome in the sight of God. It is often associated with idolatry, false worship, and practices that are morally or ritually impure. The concept of abomination is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, reflecting God's holiness and the call for His people to live in accordance with His standards.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word most commonly translated as "abomination" is "toebah" (תּוֹעֵבָה). This term is used to describe various practices that are offensive to God, particularly those related to idolatry and pagan worship. For example, in Deuteronomy 7:25-26, God commands the Israelites to destroy the idols of the nations they conquer, warning them not to bring an abomination into their homes: "You must burn up the images of their gods. Do not covet the silver or gold that is on them, and do not take it for yourselves, or you will be ensnared by it, for it is detestable to the LORD your God. You must not bring any detestable thing into your house, or you will be set apart for destruction like it. You must utterly detest and abhor it, for it is set apart for destruction."

The abominations listed in the Old Testament include various forms of idolatry (Deuteronomy 12:31), sexual immorality (Leviticus 18:22), and unjust practices (Proverbs 11:1). These acts are considered abominable because they violate the covenant relationship between God and His people and corrupt the moral and spiritual fabric of society.

The Abomination of Desolation

One of the most significant uses of the term "abomination" is found in the prophetic literature, particularly in the phrase "the abomination of desolation." This term appears in the book of Daniel and is later referenced by Jesus in the New Testament. In Daniel 9:27, the prophet speaks of a future event where a desolating abomination will be set up in the temple: "And he will confirm a covenant with many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations will come one who causes desolation, until the decreed destruction is poured out upon him."

This prophecy is interpreted by many as referring to the desecration of the Jewish temple by Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 167 BC, when he erected an altar to Zeus and sacrificed pigs within the temple precincts. However, Jesus' reference to the "abomination of desolation" in Matthew 24:15 suggests a future fulfillment, often associated with the end times and the Antichrist: "So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’ described by the prophet Daniel (let the reader understand)."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Greek word "bdelugma" (βδέλυγμα) is used to convey the idea of abomination. Jesus' mention of the "abomination of desolation" in the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24:15; Mark 13:14) is a key eschatological warning, urging believers to be vigilant and discerning in the face of future tribulations.

The concept of abomination in the New Testament also extends to moral and ethical behavior. In Revelation 21:27, it is stated that nothing impure or abominable will enter the New Jerusalem: "But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life."

Theological Implications

The repeated emphasis on abomination throughout Scripture underscores the seriousness with which God views sin and idolatry. It serves as a reminder of the call to holiness and the need for God's people to separate themselves from practices that are contrary to His will. The abomination of desolation, in particular, highlights the ongoing spiritual battle and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over evil.