Topical Bible: The Locust: Immensely Numerous

◄ The Locust: Immensely Numerous ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The locust, a type of grasshopper, is a significant creature in biblical literature, often symbolizing divine judgment and devastation due to its immense numbers and destructive capacity. Throughout the Bible, locusts are depicted as instruments of God's wrath, bringing about desolation and serving as a call to repentance.

Biblical References and Symbolism

1. Plague of Locusts in Egypt: One of the most notable mentions of locusts is found in the account of the plagues of Egypt. In Exodus 10:12-15 , God commands Moses to stretch out his hand over Egypt so that locusts will swarm over the land. The passage describes the locusts as covering the ground until it was black, consuming every plant and fruit left after the hail. This plague was a direct challenge to the Egyptian deities and demonstrated the power of the God of Israel over creation.

2. Joel's Prophecy: The prophet Joel vividly describes a locust invasion as a metaphor for an impending judgment. Joel 1:4 states, "What the devouring locust has left, the swarming locust has eaten; what the swarming locust has left, the young locust has eaten; and what the young locust has left, the destroying locust has eaten." This relentless destruction serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the need for spiritual renewal.

3. Locusts in Revelation: In the apocalyptic vision of Revelation, locusts appear as agents of divine judgment. Revelation 9:3 describes locusts emerging from the smoke of the abyss, given power like that of scorpions. These locusts are not ordinary insects but are symbolic of a spiritual and physical torment unleashed upon those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.

Characteristics and Impact

Locusts are known for their ability to form large swarms that can travel great distances, consuming vast amounts of vegetation and leaving devastation in their wake. This characteristic is reflected in the biblical narrative, where locusts are often associated with famine and economic ruin. The immense numbers of locusts and their capacity to destroy crops symbolize overwhelming judgment and the need for divine intervention.

Theological Implications

The use of locusts in the Bible underscores themes of judgment, repentance, and restoration. The devastation caused by locusts serves as a tangible reminder of the consequences of sin and the urgency of turning back to God. In the prophetic literature, locusts often precede promises of restoration and blessing, highlighting God's mercy and the hope of redemption for those who repent.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, locust swarms were a well-known natural disaster, capable of decimating entire harvests and leading to severe food shortages. The biblical authors used this familiar phenomenon to convey spiritual truths, drawing on the collective experience of their audience to communicate messages of warning and hope.

In summary, the locust in the Bible is a powerful symbol of divine judgment and a call to repentance. Its immense numbers and destructive power serve as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the necessity of seeking God's mercy and grace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 105:34
He spoke, and the locusts came, and caterpillars, and that without number,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Nahum 3:15
There shall the fire devour you; the sword shall cut you off, it shall eat you up like the cankerworm: make yourself many as the cankerworm, make yourself many as the locusts.
Torrey's Topical Textbook