or תֹּעֵבַה; feminine active participle of תַּעָב; properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e. (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol; abominable (custom, thing), abomination.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tôwʻêbah**, represented by `{{H8441}}`, designates something morally disgusting and abhorrent. It appears **117 times** across **112 unique verses**, highlighting its role in defining what is unacceptable to God. Its base definition is "something disgusting (morally), i.e. (as noun) an abhorrence," with a special emphasis on idolatry or an idol itself. It is frequently translated as **abomination** or an **abominable** custom or thing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8441}}` is used to condemn a wide range of sins. It is a key term in laws prohibiting pagan worship practices, such as making a graven or molten image, which is called an **abomination** unto the LORD [[Deuteronomy 27:15]]. Israel was repeatedly warned not to adopt the **abominations** of the nations they were to dispossess [[Deuteronomy 18:9]]. The term also applies to specific moral and ethical violations, including sexual immorality [[Leviticus 18:22]], using a false balance in trade [[Proverbs 11:1]], and even offering flawed sacrifices or insincere worship ([[Proverbs 15:8]], [[Isaiah 1:13]]). The consequences for committing these acts were severe, leading to the defilement of God's heritage and land [[Jeremiah 2:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of what is considered an **abomination**:
* `{{H8251}}` **shiqqûwts** (disgusting, i.e. filthy; especially idolatrous or (concretely) an idol; abominable filth (idol, -ation), detestable (thing)): This word is frequently paired with `{{H8441}}` to emphasize the utter defilement caused by idolatry. God warns that He will diminish Israel for defiling His sanctuary with their **detestable things** and **abominations** [[Ezekiel 5:11]].
* `{{H1544}}` **gillûwl** (properly, a log (as round); by implication, an idol; idol): This term for idols is directly linked to abomination. The people of Israel are commanded to turn away from their **idols** and all their **abominations** [[Ezekiel 14:6]].
* `{{H2181}}` **zânâh** (to commit adultery (usually of the female...); figuratively, to commit idolatry): This root describes the spiritual infidelity of Israel. Their "whorish heart" went after idols, which is connected to their commission of **abominations** [[Ezekiel 6:9]].
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person; wicked): The actions of the **wicked** are defined as an abomination. For example, the sacrifice of the **wicked** is an **abomination** to the LORD [[Proverbs 15:8]], as is their very way of life [[Proverbs 15:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8441}}` is found in its clear delineation of what God detests and judges.
* **Defining Divine Hatred:** The word is not merely a description of something bad; it specifies that which the LORD "hateth" [[Deuteronomy 12:31]]. Proverbs lists seven things that are an **abomination** to Him, including a proud look and a lying tongue [[Proverbs 6:16]].
* **Idolatry as a Primary Offense:** The term is most frequently applied to idolatry and the adoption of pagan practices, establishing these as a fundamental violation of Israel's covenant with God. This includes making images [[Deuteronomy 7:25]], child sacrifice [[Deuteronomy 12:31]], and following the ways of the heathen [[2 Kings 16:3]].
* **A Standard for Social and Moral Purity:** Beyond cultic sin, `{{H8441}}` sets a standard for righteousness in society. A froward heart [[Proverbs 11:20]], lying lips [[Proverbs 12:22]], justifying the wicked [[Proverbs 17:15]], and pride [[Proverbs 16:5]] are all described as abominations.
* **Basis for Judgment:** Committing **abominations** is a recurring reason for God's judgment and anger. The prophets warn that God will recompense Israel for all their **abominations** [[Ezekiel 7:3]], ultimately leading to the land becoming a desolation [[Jeremiah 44:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8441}}` is a term of profound theological importance, signifying a moral and spiritual revulsion. It serves as a stark label for a host of sins that God finds disgusting, ranging from the core offense of idolatry to acts of social injustice, sexual immorality, and personal arrogance. The word draws an unmissable line between the holiness God requires and the defiling practices that provoke His judgment, making it a cornerstone for understanding biblical ethics and the nature of sin.
TRV