ABOMINATION
What Is the Biblical Definition of Abomination?
The English Bible uses the word "abomination" to reflect about a dozen terms in the original languages of both Testaments. The prevailing idea behind the words is a divine revulsion at transgressions about religious and moral matters. The words are employed in different senses and sometimes reflect degrees of displeasure.
- Idols and the worship thereof was an abomination unto God (Isa. 66:3; Jer. 4:1; 2 Kgs. 16:3).
- Worship offered to God when done with the wrong spirit is also abominable (Prov. 15:8; Isa. 1:13).
- Sexual sins, e.g., homosexuality, are an abomination before God (Lev. 18:22).
- Dishonorable treatment of one's fellows was characterized similarly (Prov. 12:22; 20:23).
Note carefully the list of abominations cataloged in Proverbs 6:16ff. Those who yield themselves to the practice of abominable actions will not be permitted into heaven (Rev. 21:27).
