Exodus 10:15

They covered the face of all the land until it was black, and they consumed all the plants on the ground and all the fruit on the trees that the hail had left behind. Nothing green was left on any tree or plant in all the land of Egypt.

Study Bible

They covered all the ground until it was black
This phrase describes the overwhelming presence of the locusts, a plague sent by God as a judgment upon Egypt. The Hebrew word for "covered" is "כָּסָה" (kasah), which implies a complete and total covering, leaving no part of the ground visible. The imagery of the ground turning black suggests a suffocating blanket of locusts, symbolizing the totality of God's judgment. Historically, locust plagues were known to devastate regions, and this event would have been a terrifying demonstration of divine power, emphasizing the seriousness of Pharaoh's hardened heart.

and they devoured all the plants in the land
The Hebrew word for "devoured" is "אָכַל" (akal), meaning to consume or eat up completely. This indicates the thoroughness of the destruction. The locusts did not merely damage the crops; they consumed them entirely. In the context of ancient Egypt, an agrarian society heavily reliant on its crops, this would have been catastrophic. Theologically, this act of devouring symbolizes the consuming nature of sin and the consequences of disobedience to God.

and the fruit of the trees that the hail had left
This phrase highlights the sequential nature of the plagues. The hail, described in Exodus 9, had already damaged much of Egypt's agriculture, but what little remained was now being consumed by the locusts. The Hebrew word for "left" is "שָׁאַר" (sha'ar), meaning to remain or be left over. This demonstrates the relentless nature of God's judgment, leaving no room for recovery or respite for Egypt. It serves as a reminder of the completeness of divine justice.

Nothing green remained on any tree or plant
The phrase "Nothing green remained" underscores the totality of the devastation. The Hebrew word for "green" is "יֶרֶק" (yereq), which refers to anything verdant or flourishing. The absence of anything green signifies death and desolation, a stark contrast to the life and abundance that greenery represents. This serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual barrenness that results from turning away from God.

in all the land of Egypt
The phrase "in all the land of Egypt" emphasizes the widespread impact of the plague. The Hebrew word for "land" is "אֶרֶץ" (eretz), which can mean land, earth, or country. This indicates that no part of Egypt was spared from the judgment. Historically, Egypt was a powerful and prosperous nation, yet even its might could not withstand the power of God. This serves as a humbling reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and the futility of resisting His will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He is the one who, through God's power, brings the plagues upon Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that God sends as a demonstration of His power and judgment.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and where God demonstrates His power through the plagues, including the plague of locusts described in this verse.

4. Locusts
The agents of the eighth plague, sent by God to consume all the vegetation in Egypt, demonstrating His power over creation and judgment against Pharaoh's hardened heart.

5. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The plague of locusts is the eighth in this series.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
The plague of locusts demonstrates God's control over nature. He uses His creation to fulfill His purposes and execute judgment.

The Consequences of Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's command leads to severe consequences for Egypt. This serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice.

The Devastation of Sin
Just as the locusts devoured everything green, sin can consume and destroy the good in our lives if left unchecked.

God's Faithfulness to His People
Despite the devastation in Egypt, God is working to fulfill His promise to deliver Israel, showing His faithfulness to His covenant people.

Repentance and Restoration
The devastation caused by the locusts is a call to repentance, reminding us that turning back to God can lead to restoration and healing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plague of locusts in Exodus 10:15 illustrate God's power and sovereignty over creation?

2. In what ways can the hardness of Pharaoh's heart serve as a warning for us today in our relationship with God?

3. How does the devastation caused by the locusts parallel the destructive nature of sin in our lives?

4. What can we learn about God's faithfulness and His commitment to His promises from the events in Exodus 10:15?

5. How can the call to repentance seen in the aftermath of the locust plague be applied to our personal spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 1:4
This verse describes a locust invasion in Judah, drawing a parallel to the devastation in Egypt and serving as a call to repentance.

Revelation 9:3-4
Locusts are used symbolically in the end times, showing God's continued use of creation to execute judgment.

Psalm 105:34-35
This Psalm recounts the plagues, including the locusts, as a testament to God's mighty acts in delivering Israel.