Definition and Etymology:
In biblical terms, an "abomination" refers to something that is detestable or loathsome in the sight of God. The Hebrew word often translated as "abomination" is "toebah," which conveys a sense of moral and ritual repulsion. In the Greek New Testament, the word "bdelugma" is used similarly. Abominations are actions, practices, or objects that are considered offensive to the holiness and righteousness of God.

Old Testament Context:
The concept of abominations is prevalent in the Old Testament, particularly in the Pentateuch and the prophetic books. Abominations are often associated with idolatry, sexual immorality, and unjust practices. For instance, in Leviticus 18:22, the practice of homosexuality is described as an abomination: "You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination" . Similarly, Deuteronomy 7:25 warns against idolatry: "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" .

Moral and Ritual Abominations:
Abominations in the Old Testament can be categorized into moral and ritual abominations. Moral abominations include acts of injustice, deceit, and violence. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists seven things that are abominations to the Lord, including "a lying tongue" and "hands that shed innocent blood" . Ritual abominations often involve improper worship practices, such as offering sacrifices to false gods or engaging in pagan rituals.

Prophetic Denunciations:
The prophets frequently denounced the abominations of Israel and the surrounding nations. Ezekiel, for example, condemns the idolatry and moral corruption of Jerusalem, stating, "You have become guilty by the blood you have shed and defiled by the idols you have made. You have brought your days to a close and the end of your years has come. Therefore I will make you an object of scorn to the nations and a laughingstock to all the lands" (Ezekiel 22:4).

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament, the concept of abomination is less frequent but still significant. Jesus refers to the "abomination of desolation" in Matthew 24:15, a reference to the desecration of the temple, which echoes the prophecy of Daniel. The book of Revelation also speaks of abominations in the context of the end times, describing Babylon the Great as "a dwelling place for demons and a haunt for every unclean spirit, every unclean bird, and every detestable beast" (Revelation 18:2).

Theological Implications:
Abominations are fundamentally opposed to the nature and will of God. They represent a rejection of His commandments and a distortion of His created order. The biblical response to abominations is repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness. The call to holiness is a central theme, as seen in 1 Peter 1:16: "Be holy, because I am holy" .

Practical Application:
For believers, understanding what constitutes an abomination is crucial for living a life that honors God. It involves discerning between cultural practices and biblical mandates, ensuring that one's actions align with the teachings of Scripture. The pursuit of holiness requires vigilance against the influences that lead to abominable practices, both in personal conduct and in the broader community of faith.