Topical Bible: The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Locusts Removed By

◄ The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Locusts Removed By ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the wind is often depicted as a powerful force under the command of God, used to accomplish His divine purposes. One of the notable miracles involving the wind is the removal of locusts from Egypt, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. This event is a significant demonstration of God's sovereignty over nature and His ability to intervene in the natural world to fulfill His promises and execute His judgments.

Biblical Context

The miracle of the locusts being removed by the wind occurs during the series of plagues that God sent upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. The eighth plague, as described in Exodus 10, involved a devastating swarm of locusts that covered the land of Egypt, consuming all the vegetation and causing severe destruction.

Scriptural Account

In Exodus 10:12-19, the narrative details the arrival and subsequent removal of the locusts:

"The LORD said to Moses, 'Stretch out your hand over the land of Egypt, so that locusts will swarm over the land and devour every plant in the fields, everything left by the hail.' So Moses stretched out his staff over the land of Egypt, and the LORD directed an east wind over the land all that day and all that night. By morning the wind had brought the locusts; they invaded all the land of Egypt and settled in every area of the country in great numbers. Never before had there been such a plague of locusts, nor will there ever be again. They covered all the ground until it was black, and they devoured all that was left after the hail—everything growing in the fields and the fruit on the trees. Nothing green remained on tree or plant in all the land of Egypt."

Following Pharaoh's plea for relief and his temporary repentance, God responded to Moses' intercession:

"Then the LORD changed the wind to a very strong west wind, which caught up the locusts and carried them into the Red Sea. Not a single locust was left anywhere in Egypt."

Theological Significance

The removal of the locusts by the wind underscores several key theological themes:

1. Divine Authority: The event highlights God's supreme authority over creation. The wind, a natural element, is depicted as an instrument of God's will, demonstrating His control over the forces of nature.

2. Judgment and Mercy: The plague of locusts served as a judgment against Egypt for Pharaoh's hardened heart and refusal to release the Israelites. Yet, the removal of the locusts also illustrates God's mercy and readiness to relent from judgment in response to genuine repentance, albeit Pharaoh's was short-lived.

3. Covenantal Faithfulness: The miracle is part of the larger narrative of the Exodus, where God is fulfilling His covenantal promise to deliver His people from slavery. The use of the wind to remove the locusts is a testament to His faithfulness and commitment to His covenant with Israel.

4. Symbolism of the Wind: In biblical literature, the wind often symbolizes the Spirit of God, His presence, and His power. In this context, the wind's role in both bringing and removing the locusts can be seen as a manifestation of God's active presence in the world, executing His divine plan.

The miracle of the locusts being removed by the wind is a profound example of God's interaction with the natural world to achieve His purposes, demonstrating His power, justice, and mercy.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 10:19
And the LORD turned a mighty strong west wind, which took away the locusts, and cast them into the Red sea; there remained not one locust in all the coasts of Egypt.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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