What Does Abomination Mean in the Bible — Meaning Explained

The Bible uses 'abomination' to describe sins God finds especially repulsive. In the Old Testament, it covers idolatry, child sacrifice, witchcraft, dishonest scales, sexual sins, and pride. Proverbs lists seven things the LORD hates as abominations, including a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. The 'abomination of desolation' spoken of by Daniel and Jesus refers to a defiling act in the temple that signals end-time judgment. To call something an abomination is to say it stands in direct opposition to God's holiness. Yet the gospel offers cleansing even for those who have committed abominations — Christ's blood washes away every sin for those who repent.