Bible Dictionary
Desolation, Abomination of
The abomination of desolation is a defiling sacrilege associated with Daniel’s prophecy and later applied by Jesus to the profanation of the holy place. It signifies a conspicuous sign of idolatrous opposition and approaching judgment.
Definition
The abomination of desolation is a defiling sacrilege associated with Daniel’s prophecy and with Jesus’ warning concerning the holy place. It signifies an idolatrous profanation connected with desolation and judgment.
Biblical Usage
Jesus applies the expression to a conspicuous sign preceding judgment. It is interpreted in the supplied material as referring to the Roman standards or eagles rising over the temple site, showing that the holy place had fallen under idolatrous Roman power.
Historical Background
The Roman military standards were regarded by the Jews as an abomination. Their presence over the temple site represented the domination of the Romans and the profanation of the holy place.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Matt. 24:15; Mark 13:14; comp. Luke 21:20), is interpreted of the eagles, the standards of the Roman army, which were an abomination to the Jews. These standards, rising over the site of the temple, were a sign that the holy place had fallen under the idolatrous Romans. The references are to Dan. 9:27. (See ABOMINATION.)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>See ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION.</p>