The phrase "transgression that causes desolation" is a significant biblical concept, primarily associated with prophetic literature and eschatological themes. It is closely related to the "abomination of desolation," a term that appears in the books of Daniel and the Gospels, and is often interpreted as a pivotal event in biblical prophecy.

Biblical References:

1. Daniel 8:13 : "Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to him, 'How long will the vision of the daily sacrifice, the transgression that causes desolation, and the surrender of the sanctuary and the host to be trampled?'"

In this passage, the "transgression that causes desolation" is linked to a vision concerning the cessation of the daily sacrifice and the desecration of the sanctuary. This prophecy is often understood to refer to events that disrupt the worship and practices of God's people, leading to a period of desolation.

2. Daniel 9:27 : "And he will confirm a covenant with many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations will come the desolator, until the decreed destruction is poured out upon him."

Here, the prophecy speaks of a covenant and the cessation of sacrifices, with the "desolator" bringing abominations. This is often interpreted as a future event where a figure or power opposes God's covenant and desecrates holy practices, leading to desolation.

3. Daniel 11:31 : "His forces will rise up and desecrate the temple fortress. They will abolish the daily sacrifice and set up the abomination of desolation."

This passage describes a force that desecrates the temple and abolishes the daily sacrifice, setting up the "abomination of desolation." Historically, this has been associated with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who desecrated the Second Temple, but it is also seen as a foreshadowing of future events.

4. Matthew 24:15 : "So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’ described by the prophet Daniel (let the reader understand)..."

Jesus refers to Daniel's prophecy, indicating that the "abomination of desolation" is a sign of impending tribulation. This reference suggests a future fulfillment, often associated with end-times prophecy.

Interpretation and Significance:

The "transgression that causes desolation" is a concept that signifies a grave sin or act of rebellion against God that leads to the desecration of what is holy. It is often associated with idolatry, apostasy, or actions that defile sacred spaces and practices. In prophetic literature, it serves as a warning of judgment and a call to faithfulness amidst persecution and tribulation.

From a theological perspective, this transgression is seen as a catalyst for divine judgment, where God allows desolation as a consequence of the people's unfaithfulness. It underscores the seriousness of maintaining covenantal faithfulness and the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

In eschatological contexts, the "transgression that causes desolation" is viewed as a precursor to the end times, where a final confrontation between good and evil will occur. It is a reminder of the spiritual battle and the need for vigilance and perseverance in faith.

Historical Context:

Historically, the desecration of the Jewish temple by Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 167 BC is often cited as a fulfillment of Daniel's prophecy. He erected an altar to Zeus in the temple, an act that epitomized the "abomination of desolation." This event is commemorated in the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, celebrating the rededication of the temple.

In Christian eschatology, the "transgression that causes desolation" is often linked to future events, including the rise of the Antichrist and the Great Tribulation. It serves as a prophetic marker for believers to recognize the signs of the times and remain steadfast in their faith.

Conclusion:

The "transgression that causes desolation" remains a profound and complex theme within biblical prophecy, symbolizing the ultimate conflict between divine holiness and human rebellion. It calls believers to discernment, faithfulness, and hope in the promises of God amidst trials and tribulations.