What is the meaning of Revelation 9:8? Hair like that of women Revelation 9:8 begins, “They had hair like that of women.” John is describing the terrifying locust-like beings released from the Abyss. • The long, flowing hair signals an unexpected attractiveness. In Scripture, a woman’s long hair is portrayed as her glory (1 Corinthians 11:15) and, at times, as an emblem of strength or allure (Judges 16:17; 2 Samuel 14:25-26). • By giving these demonic creatures such hair, the Lord shows they can appear enticing while harboring deadly intent. Their look invites trust, yet their nature is bent on torment. • This contrast underscores how evil often disguises itself. Paul writes that “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). The locusts’ “woman-like hair” reflects that same deceptive veneer. • Taking the text at face value, John truly saw beings with long hair. Their appearance is not poetic exaggeration but a literal feature that warns readers: outward beauty can mask spiritual danger. Teeth like those of lions The verse continues, “…and teeth like those of lions.” • Lion’s teeth stand for raw power and the capacity to tear and destroy. Joel 1:6 speaks of a locust invasion whose “teeth are those of a lion,” anticipating this scene. • Lions are fearless predators (Proverbs 28:1), symbols of overpowering strength (Psalm 22:13) and, in prophetic imagery, of kingdoms that devour (Daniel 7:4). These demonic locusts inherit that predatory ferocity. • Combining irresistible force with seductive appearance, they embody Satan’s twofold strategy: lure and then savage. Jesus warned of wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15); here we see locusts with lion’s teeth. • The literal detail—actual lion-like teeth—assures us these creatures are fully capable of inflicting the agonizing five-month torment described in Revelation 9:5-6. summary John’s vision of locusts “with hair like that of women, and teeth like those of lions” shows evil’s dual nature: enticing on the surface, vicious at the core. Their woman-like hair hints at seduction; their lion-like teeth guarantee brutal harm. Both features are literal, vivid elements of the coming judgment, reminding believers to discern beyond appearances and trust the Lord’s warnings in His infallible Word. |
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