Exodus 10:5

They will cover the face of the land so that no one can see it. They will devour whatever is left after the hail and eat every tree that grows in your fields.

Study Bible

They will cover the face of the land
This phrase describes the overwhelming number of locusts that would invade Egypt. In the ancient Near East, locust plagues were a well-known and feared natural disaster. The imagery of covering the land suggests total domination and an inescapable presence, reminiscent of the darkness that would later come as another plague. This also echoes the language used in Genesis 1:2, where the earth was formless and void, indicating chaos and disorder brought by the locusts.

so that no one can see it.
The locusts would be so numerous that they would obscure the ground, creating a visual metaphor for the spiritual blindness and hard-heartedness of Pharaoh. This blindness is a recurring theme in Scripture, where physical phenomena often symbolize spiritual realities. The inability to see the land also signifies the loss of control and the impending judgment on Egypt, as God demonstrates His power over creation.

They will devour whatever is left after the hail
The previous plague of hail had already devastated much of Egypt's crops, as described in Exodus 9:25. The locusts would consume what little remained, emphasizing the completeness of God's judgment. This reflects the principle of divine retribution, where the consequences of sin and disobedience are thorough and unavoidable. The locusts' consumption of the remnants highlights the futility of resisting God's will.

and eat every tree that grows in your fields.
Trees in the fields represent not only the agricultural wealth of Egypt but also the sustenance and life of the nation. The destruction of these trees signifies a stripping away of resources and security, leaving Egypt vulnerable and exposed. This devastation prefigures the ultimate judgment and deliverance seen in the Passover, where God distinguishes between those who are His and those who are not. The locusts' consumption of the trees also foreshadows the eschatological judgment described in Revelation, where the earth's resources are similarly affected.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who is delivering God's message to Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and where the plagues are taking place.

4. The Plague of Locusts
The eighth plague sent by God to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites. It involves a swarm of locusts that will devastate the land.

5. The Land of Egypt
The specific area affected by the plague, symbolizing the judgment of God on a nation that opposes His will.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
The plague of locusts demonstrates God's control over nature and His ability to execute judgment on those who oppose Him.

The Consequences of Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's warnings leads to increasing devastation. This serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites' deliverance is contingent upon obedience to God's commands. Similarly, our spiritual freedom is linked to our willingness to follow God's will.

God's Provision and Protection
While Egypt faces devastation, God provides for and protects His people. This reminds us of God's faithfulness to those who trust in Him.

Repentance and Restoration
The plagues serve as a call to repentance. When we turn back to God, He is faithful to restore and heal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plague of locusts in Exodus 10:5 illustrate the consequences of disobedience to God?

2. In what ways can we see the theme of God's sovereignty over creation in this passage?

3. How does Pharaoh's response to the plagues serve as a warning for us today regarding the hardness of heart?

4. What parallels can we draw between the plagues in Egypt and the judgments described in the book of Revelation?

5. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and trust in God's provision from this passage to our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 1:4
This verse describes a locust invasion, drawing a parallel to the devastation in Egypt and serving as a warning of judgment.

Revelation 9:3-4
Locusts are used symbolically to describe a future judgment, connecting the theme of divine retribution.

Deuteronomy 28:38
Discusses the consequences of disobedience to God, including agricultural devastation, similar to the plague of locusts.

Psalm 105:34-35
A recounting of the plagues in Egypt, emphasizing God's power and judgment.