Abominations

In the biblical context, "abominations" refer to practices, behaviors, or objects that are detestable or loathsome to God. The term is often used to describe actions that are morally or ritually offensive, particularly those that violate the covenantal laws given to the Israelites. The Hebrew word most commonly translated as "abomination" is "to'evah," which conveys a sense of abhorrence or repulsion.

1. Idolatry: One of the most frequently mentioned abominations in the Bible is idolatry, the worship of false gods. In Deuteronomy 7:25-26, the Israelites are commanded to destroy the carved images of other nations, as they are considered abominations: "You must burn up the carved images of their gods. Do not covet the silver or gold that is on them, or take it for yourselves, lest you be ensnared by it, for it is detestable to the LORD your God."

2. Sexual Immorality: Various forms of sexual immorality are labeled as abominations. Leviticus 18:22 states, "You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination." This passage is part of a broader set of laws concerning sexual conduct.

3. Dishonest Practices: Deceptive business practices are also considered abominable. Proverbs 11:1 declares, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight."

4. Sacrificial Offerings: Improper or insincere sacrificial offerings are described as abominations. Isaiah 1:13-14 criticizes the Israelites for their empty rituals: "Bring your worthless offerings no more; your incense is detestable to Me. New Moons, Sabbaths, and convocations—I cannot endure iniquity in a solemn assembly."

5. Moral and Ethical Violations: Abominations extend to various moral and ethical violations, including pride, lying, and shedding innocent blood. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists seven things that are an abomination to God, including "a lying tongue" and "hands that shed innocent blood."

Impurities

Impurities in the Bible often refer to states of ritual uncleanness that prevent individuals from participating in religious activities or entering sacred spaces. The concept of impurity is closely tied to the holiness code found in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Leviticus and Numbers.

1. Ritual Impurity: Various conditions render a person ritually impure, such as contact with a corpse, certain skin diseases, and bodily discharges. Leviticus 11-15 outlines numerous laws regarding ritual purity, including dietary restrictions and purification rites.

2. Dietary Laws: Certain animals are deemed unclean and are not to be consumed. Leviticus 11:4-8 lists animals that are considered impure, such as the camel and the pig: "The pig, though it has a split hoof, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you."

3. Purification Rites: The Bible prescribes specific rites for purification from impurity. For example, Numbers 19 describes the use of the ashes of a red heifer mixed with water for purification from contact with a dead body.

4. Moral Impurity: Beyond ritual impurity, the Bible also addresses moral impurity, which arises from sinful actions. Isaiah 64:6 acknowledges the pervasive nature of moral impurity: "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags."

5. New Testament Perspective: In the New Testament, the focus shifts from ritual purity to moral and spiritual purity. Jesus challenges the Pharisees' emphasis on external purity, emphasizing the importance of inner purity. In Matthew 15:11, He states, "A man is not defiled by what enters his mouth, but by what comes out of it."

The concepts of abominations and impurities in the Bible highlight the importance of holiness and the need for both external and internal purity in the life of believers. These themes underscore the call to live in a manner that is pleasing to God, avoiding practices that are detestable and maintaining a state of purity.