What does "abomination" mean?
Introduction. There are five different words translated "abomination" in the Bible. The predominant meaning is, "to stink, to be loathsome, uncleanness" (Old Testament Word Studies by Wilson, pg. 3). The original words are expressive of the greatest disdain on the part of God. Let us see what is an abomination to God.
Witchcraft, adultery, and homosexuality. Divination, enchanter, or a witch, etc. are expressly called abominations (Deut. 18: 9 ff). Many of the practices of some of the Eastern Religions and of New Agers come under these headings. "Abomination" is applied to adultery in Leviticus 18: 17-27. Homosexuality is also included in the list, "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind; it is abomination" (vs. 22).
Prayer of disobedient, dishonesty, and justifying the wicked and condemning the just. Proverbs 28: 9 states, "He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination." The Book of Proverbs enunciates another general truth, "A false balance is abomination to the Lord..." (Prov. 11: 1). Those who justify the wicked and condemn the just, "...they both are abomination to the Lord" (Prov. 17: 15).
Degrees of sin. All sin is bad (1 John 3: 4, Isa. 59: 1, 2). Some sin, however, is suggestive of a greater degree of depravity and rebellion. We must remember God does not always see things as man does (Luke 16: 14, 15). The foregoing references are often not appreciated today - "You are judgmental and too intolerant," we hear. However, God's word remains true, whether we like it or not! Man may laugh at the above, but such is a repulsive odor in the nostrils of God. More and more today, the "respectable clergy" is found justifying matters such as homosexuality and dishonesty. How sad and contrary to God's pronouncements!
Witchcraft, adultery, and homosexuality. Divination, enchanter, or a witch, etc. are expressly called abominations (Deut. 18: 9 ff). Many of the practices of some of the Eastern Religions and of New Agers come under these headings. "Abomination" is applied to adultery in Leviticus 18: 17-27. Homosexuality is also included in the list, "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind; it is abomination" (vs. 22).
Prayer of disobedient, dishonesty, and justifying the wicked and condemning the just. Proverbs 28: 9 states, "He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination." The Book of Proverbs enunciates another general truth, "A false balance is abomination to the Lord..." (Prov. 11: 1). Those who justify the wicked and condemn the just, "...they both are abomination to the Lord" (Prov. 17: 15).
Degrees of sin. All sin is bad (1 John 3: 4, Isa. 59: 1, 2). Some sin, however, is suggestive of a greater degree of depravity and rebellion. We must remember God does not always see things as man does (Luke 16: 14, 15). The foregoing references are often not appreciated today - "You are judgmental and too intolerant," we hear. However, God's word remains true, whether we like it or not! Man may laugh at the above, but such is a repulsive odor in the nostrils of God. More and more today, the "respectable clergy" is found justifying matters such as homosexuality and dishonesty. How sad and contrary to God's pronouncements!