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 speaks to the overwhelming nature of the plague of locusts that God is about to unleash upon Egypt. The Hebrew word for "cover" is "kasah," which implies a complete and total covering, leaving nothing exposed. This imagery is significant as it demonstrates the power and thoroughness of God's judgment. Historically, locust swarms have been known to devastate entire regions, and this would have been a terrifying prospect for the Egyptians, who relied heavily on their land for sustenance.

so that no one will be able to see the ground
The phrase emphasizes the severity of the locust plague. The Hebrew word for "ground" is "erets," which can also mean "land" or "earth." This indicates that the locusts will be so numerous that they will obscure the very earth itself, symbolizing a complete and utter desolation. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a metaphor for how sin can obscure our vision and understanding, preventing us from seeing the truth.

They will devour what little you have left
The word "devour" comes from the Hebrew "akal," which means to consume or eat up. This is a vivid depiction of the locusts' destructive power, leaving nothing behind. The phrase "what little you have left" refers to the remnants of crops that survived the previous plagues. This serves as a reminder of the cumulative nature of God's judgments and the futility of relying on earthly resources when they are not aligned with God's will.

after the hail
This phrase situates the locust plague within the broader context of the plagues of Egypt. The hail was the seventh plague, and it had already caused significant damage to the crops and livestock. The locusts, as the eighth plague, are a continuation of God's judgment, demonstrating His sovereignty and the seriousness of Pharaoh's hardened heart. Historically, this sequence of plagues would have been a devastating blow to the Egyptian economy and society.

including every tree that is growing in your fields
The Hebrew word for "tree" is "ets," which can also refer to wood or timber. Trees were a vital resource in ancient Egypt, used for food, building, and fuel. The locusts' consumption of every tree signifies a total stripping away of resources, leaving the land barren. This can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual barrenness that results from disobedience to God. In a broader biblical context, trees often symbolize life and prosperity, and their destruction here underscores the severity of God's judgment.

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.