Bible Verses

50+ Bible Verses About What God Hates (And What They Mean)

Updated:
May 5, 2025
|
Author:
Joseph Cox

Ever wondered what the Bible says about the things God dislikes? This article brings together 50 verses that highlight exactly that. It's a straightforward look at the scriptures that speak to God's dislikes.

These verses cover a range of topics, from dishonesty to injustice. Each one offers a clear view of what God finds unacceptable. (And yes, some might surprise you.)

What Does the Bible Say About What God Hates

The Bible offers clear guidance on what God dislikes, providing us with a roadmap for living a life that aligns with divine principles. These teachings are not just rules but invitations to reflect on our actions and intentions. By understanding what God hates, we can strive to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

One key theme is the importance of honesty and integrity. Verses like Proverbs 12:22 and Proverbs 11:1 highlight that God detests dishonesty and values truthfulness. Living truthfully not only brings us closer to God but also fosters trust and stability in our relationships.

Another significant theme is the call to avoid harmful desires and actions. Galatians 5:19-21 and Colossians 3:5-6 remind us to steer clear of behaviors like jealousy, anger, and greed. These verses encourage us to focus on what is pure and beneficial, guiding us toward a life of peace and purpose.

God also emphasizes the importance of humility and sincerity. Isaiah 1:13-14 and Psalm 5:5 show that God is not pleased with empty rituals or boastful attitudes. Instead, He values genuine devotion and humility, urging us to be sincere in our actions and intentions.

Finally, the Bible calls us to live with compassion and justice. Verses like Zechariah 8:17 and Isaiah 61:8 highlight God's love for justice and His disdain for evil thoughts and actions. By embracing these values, we can create a more just and compassionate world, reflecting God's love in our daily lives.

50 Bible Verses About What God Hates

10 Bible Verses on What God Detests

1) Proverbs 6:16-19

Proverbs 6:16-19

These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.

Meaning: It's striking how this verse lists both actions and attitudes that God detests. It’s a reminder that our inner thoughts and outward behaviors are equally important to Him.

2) Deuteronomy 12:31

You shall not worship the Lord your God in that way; for every abomination to the Lord which He hates they have done to their gods; for they burn even their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods.

Meaning: While the world often tells us to follow our own path, this verse reminds us that not all paths are acceptable to God. It’s a call to align our actions with His values, even when it’s challenging.

3) Leviticus 18:22

You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination.

Meaning: This verse invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of our relationships and the values we hold. It challenges us to consider how our actions align with a higher moral standard, urging a thoughtful examination of our lives.

4) Proverbs 11:1

Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, But a just weight is His delight.

Meaning: When you cheat or deceive, it's like building a house on sand—unstable and bound to collapse. But fairness and honesty create a foundation as solid as rock, bringing joy to God and stability to your life.

5) Isaiah 1:13-14

Bring no more futile sacrifices; Incense is an abomination to Me. The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies—I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting. Your New Moons and your appointed feasts My soul hates; They are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them.

Meaning: It's a reminder that going through the motions without genuine intent doesn't cut it. In our daily lives, it's about being sincere in our actions and not just ticking boxes.

6) Malachi 2:16

For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, For it covers one’s garment with violence, Says the Lord of hosts. Therefore take heed to your spirit, That you do not deal treacherously.

Meaning: Ever wondered why some actions leave us feeling unsettled? This verse highlights the deep impact of betrayal, contrasting it with the peace that comes from integrity and faithfulness.

7) Deuteronomy 7:25

You shall burn the carved images of their gods with fire; you shall not covet the silver or gold that is on them, nor take it for yourselves, lest you be snared by it; for it is an abomination to the Lord your God.

Meaning: Like a magnet pulling you toward something harmful, desires can trap you if you're not careful. Stay focused on what truly matters and avoid the distractions that lead you away from your values.

8) Proverbs 15:8

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, But the prayer of the upright is His delight.

Meaning: Ever felt like your efforts were in vain? This verse reassures us that genuine, heartfelt actions are what truly matter to God, offering a sense of comfort and encouragement. It's like knowing that a sincere apology means more than an extravagant gift.

9) Isaiah 66:3

He who kills a bull is as if he slays a man; He who sacrifices a lamb, as if he breaks a dog’s neck; He who offers a grain offering, as if he offers swine’s blood; He who burns incense, as if he blesses an idol. Just as they have chosen their own ways, And their soul delights in their abominations.

Meaning: Actions without genuine intent are empty. In today's world, it's a reminder that authenticity and sincerity are what truly matter, not just going through the motions.

10) Jeremiah 44:4

However I have sent to you all My servants the prophets, rising early and sending them, saying, “Oh, do not do this abominable thing that I hate!”

Meaning: We often rush through life, ignoring the gentle nudges to change our ways. This verse invites us to pause and consider the deeper messages we might be missing.

10 Bible Verses on Abominations to God

11) Leviticus 20:13

Leviticus 20:13

If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them.

Meaning: It's a stark reminder of the weight of our choices. Passed down through generations, this verse underscores the importance of living in alignment with divine principles, urging us to reflect deeply on our actions and their consequences.

12) Deuteronomy 25:16

For all who do such things, all who behave unrighteously, are an abomination to the Lord your God.

Meaning: It's a powerful reminder that our actions reflect our values. When we act with integrity, we align ourselves with a higher standard, bringing us closer to divine principles.

13) Proverbs 17:15

He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the Lord.

Meaning: When we stand up for what's right and call out what's wrong, we align ourselves with a higher moral compass. It's about striving for justice and integrity in every action we take.

14) Ezekiel 18:12-13

Has oppressed the poor and needy, Has robbed by violence, Not restored the pledge, Lifted his eyes to the idols, Or committed abomination; If he has exacted usury Or taken increase—Shall he then live? He shall not live! If he has done any of these abominations, He shall surely die; His blood shall be upon him.

Meaning: Embrace the call to live with integrity and compassion. In our daily interactions, choosing kindness and fairness can lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

15) Proverbs 28:9

One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, Even his prayer is an abomination.

Meaning: In moments of struggle, it's comforting to remember that staying true to our values can bring clarity and peace. Reflecting on this can help us find strength and direction.

16) Deuteronomy 23:18

You shall not bring the wages of a harlot or the price of a dog to the house of the Lord your God for any vowed offering, for both of these are an abomination to the Lord your God.

Meaning: The verse beautifully underscores the purity and sanctity required in our offerings to God, reminding us that true devotion comes from a place of sincerity and reverence.

17) Proverbs 12:22

Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.

Meaning: Ever felt the weight of dishonesty pulling you down? This verse shines a light on the freedom and joy that come from living truthfully, offering a path to genuine peace and integrity.

18) Leviticus 11:10-12

But all in the seas or in the rivers that do not have fins and scales, all that move in the water or any living thing which is in the water, they are an abomination to you. They shall be an abomination to you; you shall not eat their flesh, but you shall regard their carcasses as an abomination. Whatever in the water does not have fins or scales—that shall be an abomination to you.

Meaning: Like a gentle reminder, this verse encourages us to be mindful of our choices, guiding us toward what is pure and beneficial for our well-being.

19) Deuteronomy 18:10-12

There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you.

Meaning: Take a moment to reflect on the power of living a life aligned with divine principles. Embracing this truth can lead to a profound sense of renewal and purpose, steering you away from harmful practices and towards a path of integrity and faith.

20) Proverbs 16:5

Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Though they join forces, none will go unpunished.

Meaning: Pride can be a heavy burden, but recognizing it can lead to a path of humility and growth. It's a gentle nudge to stay grounded and true to oneself.

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21) Isaiah 59:2

Isaiah 59:2

But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that reconnecting with your values can bring clarity and peace. It's a gentle reminder that turning back to what truly matters can help you find your way again.

22) Psalm 5:4-5

For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, Nor shall evil dwell with You. The boastful shall not stand in Your sight; You hate all workers of iniquity.

Meaning: It's easy to get lost in the chaos of life, but this verse gently reminds us to stay true to our values and seek what is good and just.

23) Isaiah 1:4

Alas, sinful nation, A people laden with iniquity, A brood of evildoers, Children who are corrupters! They have forsaken the Lord, They have provoked to anger The Holy One of Israel, They have turned away backward.

Meaning: It's surprising how turning away from what’s right can feel like moving backward in life. Embracing faith and growth can lead to a profound sense of renewal and forward momentum.

24) Jeremiah 6:15

Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? No! They were not at all ashamed; Nor did they know how to blush. Therefore they shall fall among those who fall; At the time I punish them, They shall be cast down, says the Lord.

Meaning: God's unwavering commitment to justice is a reminder that integrity and humility are timeless virtues. Embracing these values can guide us through life's challenges, offering a path to true fulfillment.

25) Hosea 9:15

All their wickedness is in Gilgal, For there I hated them. Because of the evil of their deeds I will drive them from My house; I will love them no more. All their princes are rebellious.

Meaning: Reflect on the impact of your actions and consider how they align with your values. Embrace the opportunity to make choices that lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

26) Amos 5:21

I hate, I despise your feast days, And I do not savor your sacred assemblies.

Meaning: It's a heartfelt reminder that sincerity in our actions matters deeply. God's words offer a firm foundation, assuring us that genuine devotion is what truly counts.

27) Zechariah 8:17

Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate, Says the Lord.

Meaning: In ancient times, community bonds were vital for survival. This verse shifts our focus from external actions to the intentions of our hearts, urging us to foster genuine goodwill and honesty.

28) Psalm 11:5

The Lord tests the righteous, But the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates.

Meaning: When life feels chaotic and unfair, remember that staying true to your values brings peace. Even in the midst of turmoil, holding onto righteousness offers a sense of stability and purpose.

29) Isaiah 65:12

Therefore I will number you for the sword, And you shall all bow down to the slaughter; Because, when I called, you did not answer; When I spoke, you did not hear, But did evil before My eyes, And chose that in which I do not delight.

Meaning: Consider how responding to divine guidance can transform your life. Embrace the opportunity to align your actions with what truly matters, building a foundation of integrity and purpose.

30) Jeremiah 14:10

Thus says the Lord to this people: “Thus they have loved to wander; They have not restrained their feet. Therefore the Lord does not accept them; He will remember their iniquity now, And punish their sins.”

Meaning: Ever felt lost and unsure of your path? This verse gently reminds us that turning back to our values and seeking forgiveness can lead to a renewed sense of purpose and acceptance.

10 Bible Verses on Divine Hatred

31) Malachi 1:3

Malachi 1:3

But Esau I have hated, And laid waste his mountains and his heritage For the jackals of the wilderness.

Meaning: The word "hated" here is striking. It's like the feeling of being completely abandoned in a desolate place, highlighting the profound impact of divine disfavor.

32) Romans 9:13

As it is written, "Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated."

Meaning: In the midst of life's challenges, remember that God's love and grace are steadfast. This verse reassures us of His unwavering commitment to those He has chosen, offering a profound sense of peace and assurance.

33) Psalm 139:21-22

Do I not hate them, O Lord, who hate You? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies.

Meaning: There's hope in aligning our values with divine principles, even when it feels countercultural. While the world often promotes tolerance of all views, this verse challenges us to stand firm in our convictions, highlighting the importance of loyalty and integrity.

34) Hosea 9:15

All their wickedness is in Gilgal, For there I hated them. Because of the evil of their deeds I will drive them from My house; I will love them no more. All their princes are rebellious.

Meaning: Reflect on the impact of your actions and consider how they align with your values. Embrace the opportunity to make choices that lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

35) Proverbs 6:16-19

These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.

Meaning: The certainty of this verse's promise is striking. Its vivid language paints a clear picture of the values that matter most, making it a poetic yet powerful reminder of what to avoid in our lives.

36) Psalm 5:5

The boastful shall not stand in Your sight; You hate all workers of iniquity.

Meaning: In both good times and bad, staying humble and true to your values brings peace and favor. It's a reminder that integrity and humility are timeless virtues.

37) Psalm 11:5

The Lord tests the righteous, But the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates.

Meaning: Staying true to your values brings peace and favor, even in challenging times. Embrace integrity and humility as timeless virtues that guide you through life's ups and downs.

38) Jeremiah 12:8

My heritage is to Me like a lion in the forest; It cries out against Me; Therefore I have hated it.

Meaning: It's awe-inspiring to realize that even in moments of feeling lost or distant, God's wisdom and grace are always within reach, offering comfort and guidance.

39) Isaiah 61:8

For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery for burnt offering; I will direct their work in truth, And will make with them an everlasting covenant.

Meaning: God's unwavering commitment to justice and truth invites us to trust in His righteous nature, offering a profound sense of security and hope in His promises.

40) Zechariah 8:17

Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate, Says the Lord.

Meaning: In times of uncertainty, this verse serves as a steady reminder to cultivate goodwill and honesty. It encourages us to look beyond our current struggles, knowing that living with integrity brings lasting peace and hope.

10 Bible Verses on Sins God Abhors

41) Proverbs 6:16-19

Proverbs 6:16-19

These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.

Meaning: The clarity of this verse is striking, offering a powerful reminder of the values that truly matter. Embracing these truths can transform our lives, guiding us toward integrity and harmony.

42) Galatians 5:19-21

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Meaning: Human nature often leads us astray, but God's wisdom guides us back to what truly matters. Embracing these timeless principles can help us live a life of integrity and purpose.

43) 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.

Meaning: God's promises are steadfast and reliable. Trusting in His word can guide us toward a life of integrity and purpose, offering a clear path to what truly matters.

44) Revelation 21:8

But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.

Meaning: Reflect on the choices you make and the path you walk. Embracing integrity and faith can lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment, steering you away from actions that bring harm and regret.

45) Romans 1:26-27

For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

Meaning: The enduring truth of this verse invites us to reflect on the importance of aligning our lives with divine principles. Embrace the call to live with integrity and purpose, finding strength in faith and trust.

46) 1 Timothy 1:9-10

Knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine.

Meaning: Faith brings a sense of security, knowing that God's guidance is always there to steer us away from harm. Trust in His steadfast presence to lead you on a path of righteousness and peace.

47) Colossians 3:5-6

Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience.

Meaning: God's presence offers a steady guide through life's challenges. Embracing this wisdom encourages us to let go of harmful desires and align our actions with a higher purpose, fostering a life of integrity and peace.

48) Ephesians 5:5

For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

Meaning: Embracing the joy and beauty of living with integrity brings a profound sense of peace and fulfillment. It's a gentle reminder that aligning our actions with divine principles leads to a life rich in purpose and grace.

49) 1 John 3:4

Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.

Meaning: Embrace the truth of living with integrity and purpose. Let your actions reflect your commitment to a higher standard, bringing peace and fulfillment to your life.

50) James 4:17

Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

Meaning: Ever felt that nudge to do the right thing but hesitated? This verse gently reminds us that ignoring those moments can lead us away from our true path.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About What God Hates

Applying the Bible's teachings about what God hates can transform our daily lives. These verses guide us to live with integrity, compassion, and humility.

Here are some practical steps to incorporate these principles:

  • Practice honesty: Make a habit of telling the truth, even in small matters. This builds trust and aligns with God's values.
  • Show compassion: Volunteer in your community or help a neighbor in need. Small acts of kindness reflect God's love.
  • Stay humble: Avoid boasting about your achievements. Instead, focus on being grateful and acknowledging others' contributions.
  • Pray daily: Ask God for guidance to live according to His principles. Prayer can strengthen your resolve and keep you focused.
  • Reflect on your actions: At the end of each day, think about your actions and attitudes. Consider how they align with the Bible's teachings.

Remember, God is always with you, guiding and supporting your journey. Embracing these principles can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful life.

For more prayers and Bible verses, visit PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your faith and understanding.

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