What is the etymological origin of the English term 'abomination'?

The English term 'abomination' is derived from the Latin word 'abominare', which means to deprecate something as an ill omen or to detest it.

What are the primary Biblical Hebrew terms that are translated into English as 'abomination'?

The main Biblical Hebrew terms translated as 'abomination' are shiqquts and sheqets, which stem from the verb shâqats. Another significant term is to'evah (noun) or 'ta'ev (verb).

How is the Hebrew term shiqquts generally translated and understood in biblical contexts?

The term shiqquts is translated as 'abomination' in nearly all Bible translations. It is frequently used to denote idolatry, which the Bible presents as a primary sin.

In what prophetic context does the term shiqquts appear, particularly concerning Antiochus IV Epiphanes?

Shiqquts is used in prophecies, such as Daniel 11:31, to refer to severe calamities destined to fall upon the Jews during the era of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. This passage is often interpreted as Antiochus being a precursor or type of the Antichrist.

What specific historical event involving Antiochus IV Epiphanes is identified as a potential 'abomination of desolation' linked to shiqquts?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes erected an altar to Zeus Olympios over the altar for burnt offerings in the Second Temple and sacrificed pigs on it. This act, described in 1 Maccabees 1:54 and referenced in Daniel 9:27, is considered by many to be the abomination of desolation in Jerusalem.

Beyond the 'abomination of desolation', what other sinful practices or concepts are associated with the Hebrew term shiqquts?

The term shiqquts is also associated with sinful sacrifices (Isaiah 66:3), idolatry (Deuteronomy 29:17, Ezekiel 20:7-8, 1 Kings 11:5-7, Jeremiah 13:27), and witchcraft (2 Kings 23:24).

What is the primary focus when the Hebrew term sheqets is used in the Bible?

The Hebrew word sheqets is almost exclusively used in the Bible to refer to animals that are considered unclean according to Levitical law.

Which types of seafood are classified as sheqets (abominations) according to Leviticus?

Seafood that lacks fins and scales is designated as sheqets, or an abomination, in Leviticus 11:10-12.

What insects are considered sheqets (abominations) in the biblical text?

According to Leviticus 11:20-23, all insects are considered sheqets, with the specific exceptions of locusts, crickets, and grasshoppers.

Which specific birds are listed as sheqets (abominations) in Leviticus?

Leviticus 11:13 identifies birds such as the eagle, ossifrage, and osprey as sheqets, or abominations.

What is the consequence of consuming animals designated as sheqets?

Consuming sheqets, such as unclean animals or insects, was forbidden. Leviticus 11:41 states that those who eat unclean insects become abominable, using a verb derived from to'evah.

How is the Hebrew verb shâqats rendered in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible?

In the King James Version, the verb shâqats is translated in various ways, including 'abominable', 'abomination', 'abhorred', and 'detest'.

What are some key examples of the use of the Hebrew term to'evah in the Bible?

To'evah is used to describe shepherds as an abomination to the Egyptians (Genesis 46:34) and refers to the animals the Israelites would have to sacrifice, which were abominations to the Egyptians, as mentioned by Moses to Pharaoh (Exodus 8:26).

What seven specific things does Proverbs 6:16-19 list as abominations?

Proverbs 6:16-19 lists seven abominations: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to mischief, a false witness who utters lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.

What does the term to'evah signify when referring to idolatry?

When used in relation to idolatry, to'evah denotes the worship of idols or false gods, which is considered a grave offense against the monotheistic principles of the Hebrew Bible.

What categories of illicit sexual conduct are described as to'evah in the Bible?

To'evah is used to condemn various forms of illicit sexual relations, including prostitution, adultery, and incest, as found in passages like Ezekiel 16:22, 58 and Ezekiel 22:11.

How does the Bible classify homosexual acts using the term to'evah?

Leviticus 18:22 and Leviticus 20:13 explicitly refer to a man engaging in sexual relations with another man 'as with a woman' as a to'evah, or abomination.

What ritualistic or religious practices, besides idolatry, are considered to'evah?

Practices such as temple prostitution (1 Kings 14:24), child sacrifice to Molech (Jeremiah 32:35), and offerings derived from illicit sexual acts (Deuteronomy 23:18) are also categorized as abominations.

What prohibitions related to clothing and commercial practices are identified as to'evah?

The Bible lists cross-dressing (Deuteronomy 22:5) and cheating in commerce through the use of rigged weights (Deuteronomy 25:16, Proverbs 11:1) as abominations.

Which character traits are explicitly identified as abominations in the book of Proverbs?

The book of Proverbs identifies character traits such as pride (Proverbs 16:5) and the devising of wicked schemes (Proverbs 6:16-19) as abominations.

How are unclean animals linked to the term to'evah in Deuteronomy?

Deuteronomy 14:3 classifies certain unclean animals as to'evah, reinforcing the dietary laws that distinguished between permissible and forbidden foods for the Israelites.

What serious offenses against others are categorized as to'evah in Jeremiah?

Jeremiah 7:9-10 lists stealing, murder, and adultery, alongside breaking covenants, as abominations, highlighting that actions harming others and violating agreements are detestable.

How is usury or exploitative lending viewed in relation to the term to'evah?

Making unethical monetary loans that unfairly enrich the lender and oppress the poor, known as usury, is considered an abomination (to'evah) according to Ezekiel 18:10-13.

What are some of the ways the Hebrew verb ta'ev is rendered in the King James Version (KJV)?

In the KJV, the verb ta'ev is translated as 'abhor', 'abominable', 'abhorred', 'abhorreth', 'abominably', and 'committed', reflecting its strong negative connotation.

What is the general English definition of an abomination as presented in the article?

In English, an abomination refers to something that is exceptionally loathsome, hateful, sinful, wicked, or vile.

How do modern Bible translations differ from the KJV in rendering the Hebrew term to'evah?

While the KJV often uses 'abomination' for to'evah, many modern translations, including the New International Version (NIV) and New English Translation (NET), render it as 'detestable', and the New American Bible (NAB) uses 'loathsome'.

What was the specific reason shepherds were considered an abomination by the Egyptians, according to Genesis?

Genesis 46:34 states that shepherds were an abomination to the Egyptians. This aversion may have stemmed from Egyptian religious beliefs or practices related to certain animals or occupations.

What compromise did Pharaoh offer Moses concerning the Israelites' worship during the plagues of Egypt?

Pharaoh offered to allow the Israelites to hold their festival and offer sacrifices within Egypt. However, Moses refused this compromise because the required sacrifices would have involved animals considered abominations by the Egyptians (Exodus 8:26).

What is the connection between the term shiqquts and the prophetic concept of the 'abomination of desolation'?

The term shiqquts is directly linked to the 'abomination of desolation' mentioned in Daniel 9:27. This phrase is often interpreted prophetically to signify a desecration of holy places, exemplified by Antiochus IV Epiphanes' actions.

How does the Bible use the term to'evah to describe illicit marriages?

The Bible uses to'evah in relation to illicit marriages, such as the circumstances described in Deuteronomy 24:2-4, which outlines forbidden remarriages after divorce, deeming them abominations.

What does the distinction between shiqquts and sheqets suggest about the biblical classification of animals?

The use of shiqquts and sheqets highlights that certain animals were deemed unclean and forbidden for consumption or ritual use, forming a key part of biblical dietary laws and religious practice.

What does the term to'evah signify regarding actions and practices in a moral sense?

To'evah signifies actions or practices that are considered inherently evil, wicked, vile, or detestable according to the moral and religious standards presented in the Bible.

How does the Bible address the extreme wickedness of child sacrifice using the term to'evah?

Child sacrifice, particularly to the deity Molech, is explicitly condemned as an abomination (to'evah) in Jeremiah 32:35, emphasizing its profound moral depravity.

What is the significance of the list in Proverbs 6:16-19 regarding the nature of abominations?

The list in Proverbs highlights that abominations are not limited to ritual or dietary matters but also include specific character flaws and behaviors like pride, lying, and causing conflict, indicating a broad scope for moral condemnation.

How are the terms sheqets and to'evah related in the context of unclean insects?

While sheqets refers to unclean insects, Leviticus 11:41 uses a verb derived from to'evah to describe the state of being abominable for those who consume these insects, linking dietary impurity to the broader concept of abomination.

What does the biblical use of 'abomination' reveal about the importance of ethical conduct in commerce?

Classifying dishonest practices like using rigged weights in trade as abominations underscores the biblical emphasis on fairness, integrity, and ethical behavior in all commercial dealings.

What role does shiqquts play in prophetic interpretations concerning future events or figures?

Shiqquts is significant in prophetic contexts, particularly in the book of Daniel, where it denotes a desecration or major calamity, often associated with figures like Antiochus IV Epiphanes and eschatological concepts like the Antichrist.

What does the classification of certain animals as to'evah or sheqets imply about biblical dietary laws?

The classification of specific animals as abominations underscores the detailed nature of biblical dietary laws, which served to distinguish between clean and unclean foods for the Israelites and maintain religious distinctiveness.

How does the term to'evah apply to interpersonal relationships and social harmony?

The inclusion of actions like spreading strife among brothers (Proverbs 6:16-19) as abominations shows that the concept extends to behaviors that disrupt social harmony and familial bonds, deeming them morally reprehensible.

What is the core meaning conveyed by the Latin root 'abominare' for the English word 'abomination'?

The Latin root 'abominare' signifies a strong feeling of aversion, specifically to 'deprecate as an ill omen', indicating that an abomination is something deeply feared and detested.

What is the primary difference in typical usage between the Hebrew terms shiqquts and sheqets?

While both translate to 'abomination', shiqquts is generally used for idolatry and significant sins, whereas sheqets is almost exclusively reserved for referring to biblically unclean animals.

How is the concept of abomination used in the book of Ezekiel to describe moral corruption?

Ezekiel frequently employs the term to'evah to condemn a wide range of sins, including idolatry, illicit sexual relationships, and other wicked practices, thereby emphasizing their detestable nature from a divine perspective.

What does the Bible consider an abomination in the context of financial practices?

The Bible explicitly labels usury, defined as making unethical or immoral monetary loans that unfairly enrich the lender and oppress the poor, as an abomination (to'evah) in Ezekiel 18:10-13.

What do the biblical classifications of 'haughty eyes' and 'a lying tongue' as abominations reveal about the nature of sin?

These classifications reveal that the biblical concept of abomination extends beyond overt actions to include internal attitudes and character flaws, such as pride and deceit, which are considered fundamentally contrary to righteousness.

What specific types of illicit sexual relations are identified as abominations (to'evah) in the Bible?

The Bible identifies prostitution, adultery, and incest as abominations (to'evah) in passages like Ezekiel 16:22 and 58, and Ezekiel 22:11.

How does the Bible address the practice of homosexuality using the term to'evah?

Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 explicitly state that a man lying with a man as with a woman is a to'evah, or abomination.

What is the significance of the term to'evah in relation to illicit marriages?

The term to'evah is applied to certain types of illicit marriages, such as those described in Deuteronomy 24:2-4 concerning remarriage after divorce, indicating they are forbidden and detestable.

Abomination Bible Wiki: Sacred Lexicon: Unpacking 'Abomination' in Biblical Texts

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Lexicon Overview

The English Term

The English term "abomination" denotes that which is exceptionally loathsome, hateful, sinful, wicked, or vile. It serves as a translation for several key Biblical Hebrew terms, primarily shiqquts and to'eva. While shiqquts is almost universally rendered as "abomination," the term to'eva, though often translated similarly, carries nuances of detestation and loathsomeness, frequently applied to idolatry and morally reprehensible acts.

Hebrew Roots

The primary Hebrew terms are:

Shiqquts (שִׁקּוּץ): Derived from the root shâqats, often translated as "abomination." It is frequently associated with idolatry and forbidden practices.
Sheqets (שֶׁקֶץ): Closely related to shiqquts, this term is almost exclusively used to denote unclean animals, particularly those forbidden for consumption.
To'eva (תּוֹעֵבָה): Derived from the verb ta'ev, this term signifies something detestable, loathsome, or abominable. It is broadly applied to idolatry, illicit sexual practices, and other morally reprehensible actions.

Understanding the specific context is crucial for accurate interpretation of these terms.

Etymological Context

The English word "abomination" originates from the Latin abominare, meaning "to deprecate as an ill omen." This etymology underscores the sense of profound aversion and rejection associated with the concept, aligning with its usage in theological and moral discourse to describe actions or objects considered deeply offensive to divine standards.

Linguistic and Theological Analysis

The Term Shiqquts

The term shiqquts appears predominantly in prophetic literature and legal codes, often signifying acts or objects deemed profoundly offensive to the divine order. Its usage highlights a deep-seated revulsion towards specific transgressions.

Shiqquts is employed in various contexts:

Prophetic Calamities: In Daniel 11:31 and 12:11, it refers to the "abomination that maketh desolate," interpreted as significant calamities befalling the Jewish people, possibly linked to Antiochus IV Epiphanes' desecration of the Second Temple.
Idolatry: It is frequently used to describe idols and the practice of idolatry, considered the paramount sin in many biblical passages (e.g., Deuteronomy 29:17, Ezekiel 20:7-8, 1 Kings 11:5-7, Jeremiah 13:27).
Sinful Sacrifices: Isaiah 66:3 equates the offering of sacrifices by those who disobey divine commands with the act of sacrificing a dog, labeling it a shiqquts.
Witchcraft: 2 Kings 23:24 mentions the eradication of sorcery and idolatrous practices, including those associated with shiqquts.

The Term Sheqets

The term sheqets, closely related to shiqquts, is almost exclusively reserved for the classification of animals deemed unclean under Mosaic Law, rendering them unfit for consumption.

Sheqets specifically designates:

Forbidden Seafood: Leviticus 11:10-12 prohibits the consumption of marine life lacking fins and scales, classifying them as sheqets.
Unclean Insects: Leviticus 11:20-23 and 11:41 list certain insects as sheqets, forbidden for consumption.
Specific Birds: Leviticus 11:13 identifies birds such as eagles, ossifrage, and osprey as sheqets.
Other Unclean Fauna: The term extends to other animals classified as unclean, or the act of touching them (Leviticus 7:21).

The verb form derived from this root, shâqats, is rendered in various ways in English translations, including "abominable," "abhorred," and "detest," reflecting the strong negative connotation.

The Term To'eva

To'eva is a more broadly encompassing term for that which is detestable or abominable. It extends beyond ritual impurity to encompass moral and ethical failings, often highlighting actions that violate divine commandments and societal harmony.

To'eva is applied to a wide range of prohibitions and moral failings:

Social and Professional Distinctions: Genesis 46:34 notes that shepherds were an "abomination" to the Egyptians, indicating a social or occupational aversion. Exodus 8:26 highlights the potential offense of sacrificing "the abomination of the Egyptians" to the Israelites.
Moral Transgressions: Proverbs 6:16-19 enumerates several actions considered abominations: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart devising wicked schemes, swift feet to mischief, a false witness, and one who spreads strife.
Idolatry and False Worship: This is a primary application, including idols themselves (Deuteronomy 7:25, Isaiah 44:19) and associated practices like temple prostitution (1 Kings 14:24) and child sacrifice (Jeremiah 32:35).
Sexual Immorality: Various forms of illicit sexual relations are condemned as to'eva, including incest (Leviticus 18:22, 18:27-30), adultery, prostitution, and homosexual acts (Leviticus 18:22, 20:13).
Ritual and Social Violations: This includes illicit marriage (Deuteronomy 24:2-4), cross-dressing (Deuteronomy 22:5), dishonest business practices (Deuteronomy 25:16, Proverbs 11:1), pride (Proverbs 16:5), and the consumption of unclean animals (Deuteronomy 14:3).
Covenant Violations: Jeremiah 7:9-10 links stealing, murder, adultery, and breaking covenants with the concept of to'eva.
Economic Exploitation: Ezekiel 18:10-13 condemns usury and the oppression of the poor as abominations.

The verb form tâ'ab is translated variously as "abhor," "abominable," and "detest," underscoring the profound negative judgment associated with these actions.

Related Concepts

Scriptural and Theological Connections

The concept of "abomination" intersects with numerous theological and ethical themes within the Judeo-Christian tradition. Understanding these connections provides a richer context for its significance:

The Bible and Homosexuality: Certain passages employing the term to'eva are central to discussions regarding homosexuality in the Hebrew Bible.
Damnation and Hell: The concept of abomination is often linked to divine judgment and the consequences of sin.
Gehinnom and Tophet: These terms relate to places associated with judgment and, in some contexts, abhorrent practices like child sacrifice.
Leviticus 18: This chapter extensively details laws concerning sexual purity, frequently employing the term to'eva to describe forbidden acts.
Religion and Sexuality: The classification of certain sexual acts as abominations reflects broader religious perspectives on purity and morality.
Yiddish Terminology: Words like shiksa and shegetz, derived from sheqets, demonstrate the term's linguistic descendants in cultural contexts.
Total Depravity: Theological doctrines concerning the inherent sinfulness of humanity sometimes draw upon the concept of abomination to illustrate the depth of human fallenness.

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References

Stone Edition Chumash ISBN 1-57819-107-6

A full list of references for this article are available at the Abomination (Bible) Wikipedia page

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Important Considerations

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from the provided source text, which is derived from Wikipedia. Its purpose is strictly academic and informational, aiming to provide a structured analysis of the term "abomination" within its Biblical context.

This is not theological or doctrinal pronouncement. The interpretations and classifications presented are based solely on the source material and aim for linguistic and historical accuracy as represented therein. This content should not be considered a substitute for scholarly exegesis, theological study, or pastoral guidance. Readers are encouraged to consult primary texts, scholarly commentaries, and qualified theologians for deeper understanding and application.

The creators of this resource are not responsible for any misinterpretations, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented. The nuances of religious texts require careful and critical engagement.

Sacred Lexicon

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Lexicon Overview ℹ️

🇬🇧 The English Term

📜 Hebrew Roots

🏛️ Etymological Context

Linguistic and Theological Analysis ⚖️

🚫 The Term Shiqquts

🐟 The Term Sheqets

💔 The Term To'eva

Related Concepts 🔗

📚 Scriptural and Theological Connections

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Lexicon Overview

The English Term

Hebrew Roots

Etymological Context

Linguistic and Theological Analysis

The Term Shiqquts

The Term Sheqets

The Term To'eva

Related Concepts

Scriptural and Theological Connections

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Considerations