Biblical explanation
Daniel uses the expression in connection with the prophetic "abomination" and desolation (Daniel 9:27; 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..." Matthew 24:15, KJV He connected it with a warning to flee (Matthew 24:16). The parallel in Mark says: "the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not." Mark 13:14, KJV Luke's parallel describes Jerusalem surrounded by armies (Luke 21:20). 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.
Key takeaway
The great controversy reveals God's character as Christ ministers as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. The dead await the resurrection, Christ's return will be visible and personal, and prophecy calls believers to faithful mission rather than date-setting or fear.