Hope and Prophecy

What Is the Abomination of Desolation?

The “abomination of desolation” is a prophetic expression used by Daniel and quoted by Jesus. It refers to a profaning or desolating power associated with opposition to God's worship and sanctuary.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Prophecy

Biblical explanation

Daniel uses the expression in connection with the prophetic “abomination” and desolation (; 11:31; 12:11). Jesus later said: “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place…” (). He connected it with a warning to flee (). The parallel in Mark says: “the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not” (). Luke's parallel describes Jerusalem surrounded by armies (). This shows that the prophecy had an important historical application involving Jerusalem while also appearing within Jesus' broader end-time discourse. The phrase should not be reduced to one modern object or event without examining all its biblical uses. Daniel provides the prophetic foundation, while Jesus applies Daniel's language within His teaching about Jerusalem and the end.

In brief

Daniel uses the expression in connection with the prophetic “abomination” and desolation (; 11:31; 12:11).

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.