βδέλυγμα (bdelugma)
bdelugma
abomination
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun bdelugma refers to something detestable or foul, often carrying a strong sense of moral repugnance. In the New Testament, it appears in only six verses, primarily within the writings of John and the Synoptic Gospels. The word conveys more than simple dislike; it describes an object or act that is abhorrent, particularly when linked to idolatry or false worship.
This term frequently translates the Hebrew concept of "abomination" found in the Old Testament, such as the profanation of the temple described in Daniel. Jesus uses this specific word in Matthew 24:15 and Mark 13:14 when referencing the "abomination of desolation," connecting his audience’s present suffering to ancient prophetic warnings about sacrilege. Similarly, Revelation employs it to describe the spiritual corruption associated with Babylon’s idolatrous practices (Revelation 17:4-5; 21:27).
Its root verb implies a feeling of loathing or disgust, suggesting that bdelugma is not merely an external violation but something that provokes deep inner revulsion. By using this term, the biblical authors emphasize the severity of turning away from God’s holiness toward practices that are fundamentally opposed to divine order.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word bdelugma carries a heavy weight, describing something so morally foul that it provokes deep revulsion. It is not merely a matter of personal dislike but a profound spiritual repugnance before God. When Scripture labels something an abomination, it highlights a stark contrast between human values and divine holiness.
In Luke 16:15, Jesus warns that what people exalt in their own eyes may be an abomination to God. This reminds us that our cultural standards or personal ambitions can sometimes mask spiritual emptiness. True righteousness is not found in outward appearance but in the sincerity of the heart before the Creator.
Similarly, Revelation uses this term to describe the corruption of Babylon, showing how idolatry and moral decay go hand in hand. The call for believers is to remain distinct from such practices. By keeping our focus on the Lamb’s book of life, we find hope in a future where nothing profane will ever enter God’s presence.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- abomination3×
- of abominations1×
- an abomination1×
- abominations1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βδέλυγμα4×
- βδελυγμάτων2×
Key Verses
-
Luke 16:15
He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts. For that which is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.
This verse contrasts human self-justification with God’s knowledge of the heart, showing that worldly exaltation can be spiritually detestable.
-
Revelation of John 21:27
There will in no way enter into it anything profane, or one who causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
It defines the purity required for the New Jerusalem, excluding anything that causes abomination or lies.
-
Matthew 24:15
“When, therefore, you see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand),
Jesus references Daniel’s prophecy to warn of a future sacrilege that signals the end times, urging alertness.