The Hebrew word dᵉrâʼôwn, represented by H1860, refers to an object of aversion, abhorring, or contempt. Based on a root word meaning "to repulse," it signifies a state of profound loathing. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, used exclusively in contexts of final judgment.
In its biblical occurrences, H1860 describes an ultimate and horrifying fate. In the prophecy of Daniel, it is part of the final resurrection, where some will awaken to everlasting life and others to "shame and everlasting contempt" Daniel 12:2. Similarly, Isaiah describes the end of those who have sinned against God; their dead bodies will be "an abhorring unto all flesh," associated with unquenchable fire and undying worms Isaiah 66:24.
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context surrounding this state of abhorrence:
- H2781 cherpâh (contumely, disgrace... shame): This word is paired directly with H1860 in Daniel 12:2, linking the internal state of contempt with the external reality of public shame and disgrace.
- H6586 pâshaʻ (to break away... transgress... rebel): This term identifies the reason for the judgment. In Isaiah 66:24, the people who become an "abhorring" H1860 are specifically those who have transgressed against God.
- H8438 tôwlâʻ (a maggot... worm): This word gives a graphic and physical dimension to the concept. The state of abhorrence in Isaiah 66:24 is visually represented by the "carcases" whose worm will not die.
The theological weight of H1860 is concentrated in its depiction of divine judgment.
- Finality of Judgment: The word is used to describe a permanent state. In Daniel, this aversion is explicitly "everlasting contempt," indicating there is no reversal or end to this condition Daniel 12:2.
- Consequence of Rebellion: This state of abhorrence is a direct consequence of sin. It is the fate assigned to those who transgressed H6586 and rebelled against God, as seen in Isaiah 66:24.
- Utter Repulsion: The association of H1860 with undying worms H8438 and everlasting shame H2781 illustrates a complete and visceral repulsion, signifying a person or group becoming an object of absolute loathing.
In summary, H1860 is a specific and powerful term for ultimate contempt and abhorrence. Though used only twice, its placement within prophecies of final judgment gives it immense significance. It defines the final, repulsive state of those who rebel against God, linking their transgression to an everlasting condition of shame and aversion.
TRV