The meaning of “βδέλυγμα”
Understanding bdélygma reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
abomination. - a detestation, i.e. (specially) idolatry
βδέλυγμα
abomination. - a detestation, i.e. (specially) idolatry
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 24:15 | “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)” Word: βδέλυγμα (bdélygma) | |
| Mark 13:14 | “But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judea flee to the mountains:” Word: βδέλυγμα (bdélygma) | |
| Luke 16:15 | “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” Word: βδέλυγμα (bdélygma) | |
| Revelation 17:5 | “And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” Word: βδέλυγμα (bdélygma) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Abomination
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Abomination, detestable thing
The Hebrew toevah (תּוֹעֵבָה) means abomination—something morally disgusting to God. Idolatry, injustice, and sexual immorality are called abominations, utterly incompatible with holiness.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Abomination, detestable thing
The Greek bdelugma (βδέλυγμα) denotes something abhorrent. Jesus spoke of the 'abomination of desolation' (Matthew 24:15), and 'that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God' (Luke 16:15).