What Is The Abomination Of Desolation?
Understanding the Abomination of Desolation
The “Abomination of Desolation” is a striking and mysterious phrase that appears in both the Old and New Testaments. It has captured the attention of Bible readers and theologians alike, prompting questions about its meaning, historical fulfillment, and future significance. This study examines what the Bible teaches about the Abomination of Desolation, its context, and its implications for believers today.
Origin and Old Testament Background
The phrase originates in the Book of Daniel. Daniel, while in exile in Babylon, receives prophetic visions concerning future events affecting Israel and the world. The “Abomination of Desolation” is mentioned in several passages:
And he shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease; and upon the wing of abominations shall come one that maketh desolate; and even unto the full end, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out upon the desolator. - Daniel 9:27 ASV
And from the time that the continual burnt-offering shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand and two hundred and ninety days. - Daniel 12:11 ASV
In context, Daniel’s prophecy refers to a future desecration of the temple in Jerusalem, where something detestable would be set up, causing the temple to be defiled and worship to cease. Historically, many identify an initial fulfillment in 167 BC when Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid ruler, desecrated the Jewish temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar and erecting an idol of Zeus (see 1 Maccabees 1:54, historical reference).
Jesus’ Prophecy and the New Testament
The term gains new significance in the New Testament through the words of Jesus. During His Olivet Discourse, Jesus refers directly to Daniel’s prophecy, pointing to a future event:
When therefore ye see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let him that readeth understand), then let them that are in Judaea flee unto the mountains: - Matthew 24:15 ASV
But when ye see the abomination of desolation standing where he ought not (let him that readeth understand), then let them that are in Judaea flee unto the mountains: - Mark 13:14 ASV
Jesus’ reference suggests both a historical and a future application. Many scholars see a partial fulfillment in the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple by the Romans in AD 70, when pagan symbols and standards were brought into the temple area. However, the language Jesus uses—“when you see the abomination…standing in the holy place”—also points to a yet future, climactic event.
Paul’s Teaching and the End Times
The apostle Paul further develops this theme in his letter to the Thessalonians, describing a future time of lawlessness before Christ’s return:
Let no man deceive you in any wise: for it will not be, except the falling away come first, and the man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition, he that opposeth and exalteth himself against all that is called God or that is worshipped; so that he sitteth in the temple of God, setting himself forth as God. - 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 ASV
Here, the “man of sin” (often identified with the Antichrist) is said to set himself up in God’s temple, claiming divine honors—a clear echo of Daniel’s prophecy and Jesus’ warning. This points to a future “abomination” within a rebuilt or repurposed temple, marking a final rebellion before Christ’s return.
Interpretations and Mainstream Evangelical View
There are several perspectives on the Abomination of Desolation:
- Historical Fulfillment: Some see the main fulfillment in the events of 167 BC and AD 70, with no future application.
- Prophetic/Future Fulfillment: Many hold that while there were historical precursors, there will be a future, ultimate abomination associated with the Antichrist in the last days (Revelation 13:14-15 ASV).
- Dual Fulfillment: This view acknowledges both the historical events and a yet-to-come fulfillment, consistent with the way biblical prophecy often operates in patterns.
The mainstream position emphasizes a future, literal fulfillment as part of the end-times scenario, with the Antichrist desecrating the temple, demanding worship, and sparking a time of unparalleled tribulation before the return of Christ.
Implications for Believers
The Abomination of Desolation is ultimately a call to vigilance and faithfulness. Jesus’ instructions to His disciples were practical and urgent—when they saw these things, they were to be ready and to trust in God’s sovereignty. In a broader sense, this theme reminds believers that God’s Word is trustworthy, prophecy is fulfilled according to His plan, and Jesus will ultimately triumph over evil.
But he that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved. - Matthew 24:13 ASV
Conclusion
The Abomination of Desolation points to the reality of spiritual conflict and the certainty of God’s victory. While the details of its final fulfillment may be debated, the message is clear: Christ is sovereign, His return is certain, and His people are called to faithfulness, hope, and readiness.