Revelation 9:7

And the locusts looked like horses prepared for battle, with something like crowns of gold on their heads, and faces like the faces of men.

Study Bible

The locusts looked like horses prepared for battle
This phrase draws a vivid picture of the locusts, emphasizing their readiness and power. The imagery of locusts resembling horses is rooted in ancient warfare, where horses were symbols of strength and speed. In the Greek, the word for "prepared" (ἑτοιμασμένους) suggests a state of readiness and anticipation, indicating that these creatures are not ordinary locusts but are equipped for a divine purpose. Historically, locusts have been seen as agents of God's judgment, as seen in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 10:12-15). Here, their transformation into horse-like beings underscores the severity and intensity of the judgment they bring.

with something like crowns of gold on their heads
The "crowns of gold" symbolize authority and victory. In the Greek, the word for "crowns" (στέφανοι) often refers to a victor's crown, as opposed to a royal diadem. This suggests that these locusts have been given a temporary authority to execute judgment. Gold, a precious metal, signifies the value and purity of their mission. The imagery of crowns also connects to the theme of spiritual warfare, where these beings are seen as conquerors in the divine plan. This aligns with the biblical understanding that God uses various means to accomplish His purposes, even through seemingly destructive forces.

and faces like the faces of men
This phrase highlights the intelligence and cunning of the locusts. The human face is often associated with reason and emotion, suggesting that these creatures possess a level of awareness and intent. In the Greek, the word for "faces" (πρόσωπα) can also imply presence or countenance, indicating that these locusts have a human-like presence that makes them more terrifying. This anthropomorphic description serves to remind readers of the spiritual battle between good and evil, where even the forces of judgment have a semblance of humanity, reflecting the complex nature of God's creation and His ultimate sovereignty over all beings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Locusts
Symbolic creatures in the vision of John, representing a form of divine judgment. They are not literal insects but are described with features that suggest a more fearsome and powerful entity.

2. Horses Prepared for Battle
This imagery suggests readiness, strength, and an impending conflict. Horses in biblical times were often associated with war and power.

3. Crowns of Gold
The crowns symbolize authority and victory. The gold indicates something precious and possibly divine or royal in nature.

4. Faces of Men
This human-like feature suggests intelligence, cunning, or perhaps a deceptive appearance, as they are not fully human.

5. John the Apostle
The author of Revelation, who received this vision while exiled on the island of Patmos.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Judgment
The locusts represent a divine judgment that is both terrifying and purposeful. Believers are reminded of the seriousness of God's judgment and the call to repentance.

Spiritual Warfare
The description of the locusts as horses prepared for battle highlights the reality of spiritual warfare. Christians are called to be vigilant and prepared, wearing the full armor of God.

Authority and Deception
The crowns of gold and faces of men suggest a deceptive authority. Believers must discern true authority from false, relying on the truth of Scripture.

Hope in Christ
Despite the terrifying imagery, Revelation ultimately points to the victory of Christ. Believers can find hope and assurance in the sovereignty of God over all creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of locusts in Revelation 9:7 compare to the locusts described in the book of Joel, and what can we learn about God's judgment from these passages?

2. In what ways does the description of the locusts as "horses prepared for battle" encourage us to be prepared for spiritual warfare in our daily lives?

3. What might the "crowns of gold" symbolize in the context of spiritual authority, and how can we discern true authority in our spiritual leaders today?

4. How does the human-like appearance of the locusts challenge us to be aware of deception in the spiritual realm, and what steps can we take to guard against it?

5. Considering the broader context of Revelation, how does this passage encourage us to find hope in the ultimate victory of Christ despite the trials and judgments described?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 2
The imagery of locusts as a form of judgment is also found in the book of Joel, where locusts are used to describe an invading army.

Exodus 10
The plague of locusts in Egypt serves as a historical precedent for locusts as instruments of divine judgment.

Ephesians 6:12
The description of the locusts can be connected to the spiritual warfare described by Paul, emphasizing the battle against spiritual forces.

Daniel 7
The use of symbolic imagery to describe kingdoms and powers is similar to the visions in Daniel, where beasts represent empires.