CategoryDoctrine / Moral Term
Modern Equivalentdetestable thing; idolatrous or morally corrupt practice.
KJV Word TypeTheological noun / moral and idolatry term
DefinitionSomething that is detestable or loathsome, especially to God. Often refers to idolatry, sinful practices, or moral corruption.
Key Verses"These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him." (Proverbs 6:16); "Thou shalt not sacrifice unto the LORD thy God any bullock, or sheep, wherein is blemish, or any evilfavouredness: for that is an abomination unto the LORD thy God." (Deuteronomy 17:1)
KJV Usage NoteIn the KJV, “abomination” marks something especially detestable before God, often connected with idolatry, moral corruption, or covenant unfaithfulness.
Common MisunderstandingIt does not refer to anything merely disliked; in KJV usage it often marks what God regards as spiritually or morally detestable.
EtymologyFrom Latin abominatio ("an abomination"), from abominari ("to loathe").