Mark 13:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 13:14
14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:
Chapter Context
Mark 13 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, faith, salvation. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 13:14
14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:
Analysis
When ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not—the Greek bdelygma tēs erēmōseōs (βδέλυγμα τῆς ἐρημώσεως) quotes Daniel 9:27, 11:31, 12:11. Daniel prophesied pagan desecration of temple. Antiochus Epiphanes fulfilled this typologically (167 BC, sacrificing pigs on altar, erecting Zeus statue). Jesus prophesied another fulfillment: standing where it ought not (Greek hestēkota hopou ou dei, ἑστηκότα ὅπου οὐ δεῖ)—the holy place.
This likely refers to AD 70 when Roman standards (bearing emperor's image, idolatrous) entered temple, or to events preceding (AD 66-70 Zealot atrocities in temple). Some interpret futuristically—Antichrist entering rebuilt temple (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4). (Let him that readeth understand)—parenthetical aside urging interpretive discernment. Then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains—urgent escape commanded. Church tradition says Jerusalem Christians fled to Pella (Transjordan) before Rome destroyed city, heeding Jesus' warning.
Historical Context
Daniel's prophecy had initial fulfillment under Antiochus IV Epiphanes (167 BC), who desecrated temple, banned Judaism, triggered Maccabean revolt. Jesus prophesied another fulfillment. AD 70, Roman legions under Titus besieged Jerusalem. Josephus records zealots committed atrocities within temple—murder, defilement. When Romans breached city, legionary standards entered temple precincts—idolatrous images in holy place. Church historian Eusebius (4th century) recorded that Jerusalem Christians, remembering Jesus' words, fled to Pella before siege tightened, escaping destruction. Modern futurist eschatology anticipates final fulfillment—Antichrist defiling rebuilt temple during tribulation. Jesus' prophecy thus has near (AD 70) and possibly far (future) fulfillments, typical of prophetic perspective.
Reflection
- How does Daniel's 'abomination of desolation' having multiple fulfillments (167 BC, AD 70, possibly future) illustrate prophetic texts' complexity?
- What does the parenthetical '(let him that readeth understand)' teach about interpreting prophecy—requiring discernment, application, obedience?
- How did early Christians' obedience to Jesus' command to 'flee' demonstrate that understanding prophecy should produce action, not just speculation?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Revelation 1:3
- Parallel theme: Lamentations 1:10, Ezekiel 44:9, Daniel 8:13, 9:27, 11:31, 12:11