Locusts in the Bible
Judgment, devastation, and a call to repent.
Locusts in the Bible symbolize sweeping judgment — the eighth plague upon Egypt, the consuming armies of Joel, and the prophetic locusts of Revelation — yet also food for the wilderness prophet.
Key KJV Verses
"And the locusts went up over all the land of Egypt...before them there were no such locusts as they..."
"And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten..."
"...and his meat was locusts and wild honey."
The plague that strips the land
Locusts in Egypt, in Joel's vision, and again in Revelation devour everything green — a symbol of God's judgment upon hardened nations.
Restoration promised
Joel's God promises to restore the years the locust hath eaten when His people return to Him — a tender word of recovery beyond judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do locusts symbolize in the Bible?
Sweeping divine judgment that strips a land of its life and calls people to repentance.
Why did John the Baptist eat locusts?
They were clean under the Law (Leviticus 11:22) and the simple food of the wilderness.
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