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G948 · Greek · New Testament
Βδέλυγμα
Bdelygma
Noun, neuter
Abomination, detestable thing

Definition

The Greek noun bdelygma means an abomination, a detestable thing, something utterly loathsome. It comes from the verb bdelysomai (to be nauseated by). In the Septuagint it translates the Hebrew toevah — used for idolatry, sexual immorality, and things God finds revolting. In the New Testament it appears most prominently in the apocalyptic phrase "abomination of desolation" and in Revelation.

Usage & Theological Significance

The "abomination of desolation" (bdelygma erēmōseōs) — drawn from Daniel and cited by Jesus in Matthew 24:15 — refers to a sacrilegious desecration of the holy place that triggers divine judgment. Theologically, bdelygma marks the extreme boundary between the holy and the profane: what God called toevah/bdelygma was not merely culturally distasteful but ontologically incompatible with His presence. In Revelation, Babylon the Great holds a cup full of "abominations" — the spiritual antithesis of the pure cup of the new covenant. What God abhors, He will ultimately destroy.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 24:15 So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place...
Mark 13:14 But when you see the abomination of desolation standing where it ought not to be.
Luke 16:15 For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.
Revelation 17:4 She was arrayed in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold and jewels and pearls, holding in her hand a golden cup full of abominations.
Daniel 9:27 And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate.

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External Resources

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