Mark 13:14

KJV

¶ But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} when {G3752} ye shall see {G1492} the abomination {G946} of desolation {G2050}, spoken {G4483} of by {G5259} Daniel {G1158} the prophet {G4396}, standing {G2476}{G2476} where {G3699} it ought {G1163} not {G3756},(let him that readeth {G314} understand {G3539},) then {G5119} let them {G5343} that be in {G1722} Judaea {G2449} flee {G5343} to {G1519} the mountains {G3735}:

Complete Jewish Bible

"Now when you see the abomination that causes devastation standing where it ought not to be" (let the reader understand the allusion), "that will be the time for those in Y'hudah to escape to the hills.

Berean Standard Bible

So when you see the abomination of desolation standing where it should not be (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.

American Standard Version

But when ye see the abomination of desolation standing where he ought not (let him that readeth understand), then let them that are in Judæa flee unto the mountains:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 13:14 delivers a profound and urgent warning from Jesus within His Olivet Discourse, alerting His disciples to a pivotal future event: the appearance of the "abomination of desolation," a specific act of sacrilege foretold by Daniel the prophet. This sign would necessitate immediate and drastic flight from Judea to the mountains, underscoring the severity of the impending tribulation and the critical need for spiritual discernment and swift obedience.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a central component of Jesus' extensive eschatological discourse, often called the Olivet Discourse, recorded in [Mark chapter 13](/mark/13 "Mark 13 - The Olivet Discourse"). It directly follows the disciples' questions about the timing of the Temple's destruction and the signs of Jesus' coming and the end of the age ([Mark 13:3-4](/mark/13-3-4 "Mark 13:3-4 - Disciples' Questions")). Prior to this specific warning, Jesus describes general signs of the end, such as false Christs, wars, famines, and earthquakes, along with the persecution His followers will endure ([Mark 13:5-13](/mark/13-5-13 "Mark 13:5-13 - Early Signs and Persecution")). Mark 13:14 marks a shift from general signs to a highly specific, unmistakable indicator that demands immediate action, serving as a critical turning point in the unfolding prophecy. Parallel accounts are found in [Matthew 24:15](/matthew/24-15 "Matthew 24:15 - The Abomination of Desolation in Matthew") and [Luke 21:20](/luke/21-20 "Luke 21:20 - Jerusalem Surrounded by Armies").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The phrase "abomination of desolation" directly alludes to the prophecies in the Old Testament book of Daniel, particularly [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel's Seventy Weeks Prophecy"), [Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Antiochus Epiphanes"), and [Daniel 12:11](/daniel/12-11 "The Abomination and the End Times"). Historically, these prophecies found a partial fulfillment in 167 BC when Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king, desecrated the Jewish Temple by sacrificing a pig on its altar and erecting an idol of Zeus. This act was a profound "abomination" that brought "desolation" to the Jewish worship. In Jesus' time, the Temple remained the spiritual and cultural heart of Judaism, and any threat to its sanctity would have been understood as an existential crisis. The Roman occupation also meant that any significant military or political upheaval in Jerusalem would have immense consequences, making Jesus' warning about fleeing Judea highly pragmatic in a volatile region.
* **Key Themes:** Mark 13:14 contributes to several key themes within the Olivet Discourse and the broader Gospel of Mark. Foremost is the theme of **Prophetic Warning**, as Jesus provides precise, actionable intelligence for His disciples to navigate future tribulation. This is coupled with a strong emphasis on **Discernment**, highlighted by the parenthetical "let him that readeth understand," which calls for spiritual insight beyond mere intellectual apprehension. The command to "flee to the mountains" underscores the **Urgency of Response** and the necessity of immediate, decisive action in the face of grave danger, emphasizing that there will be no time for hesitation or gathering possessions. Furthermore, the very existence of such a detailed prophecy speaks to **Divine Sovereignty and Foresight**, demonstrating God's ultimate control over history and future events, even those involving profound suffering. Finally, the passage subtly reinforces the theme of **Endurance in Tribulation**, a recurring motif in Mark, as disciples are called to persevere by trusting and obeying Christ's words ([Mark 13:13](/mark/13-13 "Endurance to the End")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Abomination (Greek, _bdélygma'_):** (G946) This term signifies something utterly detestable, an object or act of profound disgust, often associated with idolatry, pagan practices, or defilement of a sacred space. In the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament), it frequently translates Hebrew terms for idols or practices abhorrent to God, particularly those that desecrate the Temple or violate covenant purity. Its use here points to an act of extreme sacrilege.
* **Desolation (Greek, _erḗmōsis'_):** (G2050) Derived from a verb meaning "to lay waste" or "to make desolate," this noun denotes a state of devastation, ruination, or abandonment. When combined with "abomination," it describes a detestable act or object that either causes or signifies utter devastation, particularly in a context of divine judgment or abandonment of a sacred place.
* **Understand (Greek, _noiéō'_):** (G3539) This verb means "to exercise the mind," "to comprehend," "to perceive," or "to heed." It implies more than just reading the words; it calls for a deep, spiritual discernment and intellectual grasp of the prophetic significance, urging the reader to connect the dots between the prophecy and its unfolding reality, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the necessity of the prescribed response.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not":** This clause presents the critical sign. Jesus directly references Daniel's prophecy, lending it ancient authority and prophetic weight. The "abomination of desolation" refers to an act or entity that profoundly desecrates a holy place, particularly the Temple or its immediate vicinity. The phrase "standing where it ought not" explicitly emphasizes the sacrilegious nature of this event, indicating a violation of a consecrated space. This has been understood in two primary ways: first, as a reference to the Roman armies with their idolatrous standards surrounding and eventually entering Jerusalem and the Temple courts in 70 AD, leading to the Temple's destruction; and second, as a future, ultimate desecration by an antichrist figure in a rebuilt temple prior to Christ's second coming.
* **"(let him that readeth understand,)":** This parenthetical interjection is a direct appeal to the reader (or hearer) for spiritual insight and careful attention. It suggests that understanding this prophecy is not automatic but requires active engagement, discernment, and perhaps a knowledge of Daniel's writings. It serves as a call to heed the warning and interpret the signs correctly, implying that those who fail to understand will not take the necessary action.
* **"then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:":** This is the urgent command following the appearance of the sign. The instruction to "flee to the mountains" signifies a desperate and immediate escape to a place of refuge, leaving behind all possessions. The specific geographical reference to "Judaea" and "the mountains" (likely the wilderness regions east of Jerusalem) underscores the localized nature of the immediate danger and the necessity of swift, decisive action for survival. This command was historically followed by early Christians who fled Jerusalem before its destruction in 70 AD.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 13:14 is rich in literary devices that enhance its impact and urgency. The most prominent is **Allusion**, specifically to the Old Testament prophecies of Daniel. By directly referencing "Daniel the prophet," Jesus grounds His warning in established biblical tradition, lending it authority and depth. The phrase "abomination of desolation" itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing the ultimate act of sacrilege and the precursor to profound judgment and devastation. The parenthetical remark, **"(let him that readeth understand,)"**, serves as a direct **Apostrophe** or a **Parenthetical Address** to the audience, breaking the narrative flow to emphasize the critical need for discernment and intellectual engagement with the prophecy. This also creates a sense of **Urgency** and **Exhortation**, compelling the reader to pay close attention. Finally, the command to "flee to the mountains" employs **Hyperbole** or **Metonymy** to convey the extreme danger and the drastic, immediate action required, implying that no lesser measure will suffice for survival.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 13:14 profoundly illustrates God's sovereign control over history and His compassionate foresight in warning His people. The "abomination of desolation" signifies the ultimate human rebellion against God, a desecration of what is holy, which inevitably brings divine judgment and desolation. Yet, even in the midst of such dire prophecy, God provides a clear sign and a means of escape, demonstrating His faithfulness to those who heed His warnings. This passage underscores the importance of spiritual vigilance and the active role believers must play in discerning the times and obeying God's directives, even when they demand radical action. It challenges the notion of passive faith, calling for an active, discerning, and obedient response to God's revealed truth, trusting in His provision even in the darkest hours.

* [Matthew 24:15-22](/matthew/24-15-22 "Matthew 24:15-22 - Parallel Olivet Discourse and Flight")
* [Luke 21:20-24](/luke/21-20-24 "Luke 21:20-24 - Jerusalem Surrounded by Armies and Flight")
* [Daniel 12:11](/daniel/12-11 "Daniel 12:11 - The Abomination and the End Times")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 13:14 serves as a timeless call for believers to cultivate a spirit of watchfulness and discernment. While the specific historical and eschatological fulfillments of the "abomination of desolation" continue to be debated, the underlying principles remain profoundly relevant. We are called to be students of God's Word, seeking to understand His prophetic truth not out of curiosity for future events, but out of a desire to live faithfully and obediently in the present. This passage reminds us that life in a fallen world will involve tribulation, but God, in His mercy, often provides signs and instructions for His people to navigate difficult times. Our readiness to obey, even when it demands significant personal sacrifice or a radical change of direction, is a testament to our trust in His wisdom and sovereignty. It compels us to ask ourselves: Are we spiritually prepared to respond to God's call, whatever form it may take, with immediate and unwavering obedience?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the call to "understand" challenge my approach to studying biblical prophecy and current events?**
* **What might "fleeing to the mountains" look like in a spiritual sense today, when faced with moral or spiritual desolation?**
* **In what ways am I cultivating a spirit of discernment and watchfulness in my daily life, rather than being complacent?**
* **How does this passage encourage me to trust God's provision and guidance, even when His instructions seem radical or counter-cultural?**

### FAQ
**What is the "abomination of desolation" mentioned in Mark 13:14?**

Answer: The "abomination of desolation" refers to a profoundly sacrilegious act or entity that desecrates a holy place, specifically foretold by Daniel the prophet (e.g., [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel's Seventy Weeks Prophecy")). Many scholars understand this prophecy to have a dual fulfillment. Its initial fulfillment occurred in 70 AD when the Roman armies, with their idolatrous standards, besieged and ultimately destroyed Jerusalem and its Temple, as alluded to in [Luke 21:20](/luke/21-20 "Jerusalem Surrounded by Armies"). A future, ultimate fulfillment is also anticipated, often associated with an antichrist figure who will commit a final act of desecration in a rebuilt temple before Christ's return, as further described in [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness").

**Why does Jesus say, "let him that readeth understand"?**

Answer: This parenthetical phrase serves as a direct appeal to the reader or hearer to pay close attention and exercise spiritual discernment. It suggests that the meaning of the "abomination of desolation" might not be immediately obvious to everyone, requiring careful study of Daniel's prophecies and spiritual insight to correctly interpret the signs of the times. It's a call to active engagement with the prophetic word, emphasizing that understanding is crucial for taking the necessary action, which in this context was immediate flight from danger ([Mark 13:14](/mark/13-14 "Mark 13:14 - The Abomination of Desolation")).

**How does "flee to the mountains" apply to believers today?**

Answer: While the literal command to "flee to the mountains" was a specific instruction for those in Judea during the Roman siege of 70 AD, its spiritual application remains vital. It underscores the principle of immediate and decisive action in response to clear divine warnings. For believers today, it can symbolize the need to "flee" from spiritual dangers, moral compromises, or false teachings that threaten to desecrate our faith or the purity of the church. It calls for a readiness to separate ourselves from that which is an "abomination" to God, prioritizing spiritual safety and obedience above worldly comforts or possessions, always trusting in God's provision and guidance ([Luke 21:36](/luke/21-36 "Be Watchful and Pray")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 13:14, though a warning of future tribulation, ultimately finds its deepest fulfillment and meaning in Christ. Jesus, as the ultimate Prophet, delivers these words with divine authority, demonstrating His omniscience and sovereign control over all history, from its beginning to its consummation ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "No One Has Seen God") and [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "God Has Spoken Through His Son")). The "abomination of desolation" represents the pinnacle of human rebellion and evil, a desecration of God's holiness. Yet, it is Christ Himself who will ultimately confront and conquer such evil. He is the one who will return in glory and power, not merely to warn of desolation, but to bring an end to all desolation and establish His eternal kingdom ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "The Rider on the White Horse")). The call to "flee to the mountains" foreshadows the ultimate refuge found in Christ, who is our secure dwelling place in times of trouble ([Psalm 91:1-2](/psalm/91-1-2 "My Refuge and My Fortress")). Moreover, the endurance required to heed this warning points to the perseverance of the saints, empowered by Christ's indwelling Spirit, as they await His glorious return, knowing that He has overcome the world and all its tribulations ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "I Have Overcome the World") and [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "No More Death or Mourning")). Thus, even in the dire warnings of the Olivet Discourse, the ultimate hope and victory rest squarely on the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 12:11

And from the time [that] the daily [sacrifice] shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, [there shall be] a thousand two hundred and ninety days.

Daniel 9:27

And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Daniel 11:31

And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily [sacrifice], and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.

Matthew 24:15

When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)

Matthew 24:28

For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.

Luke 21:20

¶ And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.

Luke 21:24

And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.