Question: Dear
Greg,
Could you explain the meaning of the “Abomination of Desolation”
spoken of in Daniel 9, 11 and 12 and Mark 13:14?
(Especially the part about the 1290 days in Daniel 12:11.)
Thank you,
Don
Answer: Dear
Don,
The most reliable understanding of the Abomination of Desolation and of
the 1290 days is the fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy in the time of the
revolt of the Macabees. Antiochus
IV came to power in 175 BC (long after Daniel wrote these words)—his dominion
included Palestine/Jerusalem. In
168 BC he was given an ultimatum by Rome (king of the north) to leave his
military campaign against Egypt. Antiochus
took out his fury on Jerusalem, defiled the Jew’s sanctuary, abolished the
daily offerings, set up an idol to Zeus, and celebrated pagan offerings on the
altar of burnt offering (the abomination that causes desolation). Scholars do not agree about how the 1260, 1290, and 1335 fit
into the history, but of course, there are ways in hindsight, of
“retro-fitting” time into what actually happened.
Will something like this happen again?
Many have thought so—for 2000 years—and of course still do.
The Roman conquest/destruction of Jerusalem 69-70—and again in 135 may
have been another fulfillment, according to some.
Others see fulfillment in various other events, including the Crusades.
Of course in our time many predictions have been given (all have failed
to date)—including names like Hitler, Mussolini, several Popes, and Sadam
Hussein playing key roles. There
are no sure indicators to use to determine whether and if so, when, such another
fulfillment might occur. Of course,
predictions make for incredible interest, curiosity, and sales of books and
videos. But are they the gospel?
Given the track record of those who have tried and the trail of loss of
faith in God they have left in their path, PTM believes it is wiser to focus on
the gospel rather than such predictions.
In Christ,
Greg Albrecht