The term "field-fly" does not appear explicitly in the Bible; however, it can be understood as a reference to insects that inhabit fields, such as flies or other small creatures that are often associated with agricultural settings. In the context of biblical times, these insects would have been a common part of daily life, particularly in agrarian societies where farming and fieldwork were central to survival and economic activity.

Biblical Context and Symbolism

In the Bible, insects, including flies, are often mentioned in the context of plagues or as symbols of nuisance and decay. For instance, in the book of Exodus, flies are one of the plagues that God sends upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. Exodus 8:21 states, "If you do not let My people go, I will send swarms of flies on you and your officials, on your people and into your houses. The houses of the Egyptians will be full of flies, and even the ground where they stand."

The presence of flies and other field insects can also be seen as a representation of the fallen state of creation due to sin. In a world that was originally created perfect, the presence of pests and decay serves as a reminder of the curse brought about by the Fall of Man (Genesis 3:17-19). These creatures, while part of God's creation, often symbolize the disruption of the natural order and the challenges humanity faces in a post-Edenic world.

Agricultural Significance

In ancient Israel, agriculture was a primary occupation, and the presence of field-flies would have been a practical concern for farmers. These insects could damage crops, spread disease, and generally make the task of farming more difficult. The Bible often reflects the agrarian lifestyle of its original audience, and the challenges posed by pests would have been well understood by its readers.

The book of Joel, for example, describes a locust invasion that devastates the land, which can be seen as a parallel to the destruction caused by other field pests. Joel 1:4 states, "What the devouring locust has left, the swarming locust has eaten; what the swarming locust has left, the young locust has eaten; and what the young locust has left, the destroying locust has eaten." While locusts are not flies, the imagery of insect devastation would resonate with those familiar with the challenges of farming.

Spiritual Lessons

From a spiritual perspective, the presence of field-flies and other pests can serve as a metaphor for the small, often overlooked sins or distractions that can disrupt a believer's spiritual life. Just as a farmer must be vigilant in protecting crops from pests, Christians are called to guard their hearts and minds against the subtle influences that can lead them away from God.

In the New Testament, Jesus uses agricultural metaphors to teach spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3-9), the different types of soil represent the various responses to the Word of God. While the parable does not mention flies, the concept of tending to one's spiritual "field" to ensure a fruitful harvest is a recurring theme in Scripture.

Overall, while the specific term "field-fly" is not found in the Bible, the concept of insects in agricultural settings is woven throughout the biblical narrative, offering both practical insights and spiritual lessons for believers.Field-fly (2 Occurrences)

Joel 1:4
What the worm did not make a meal of, has been taken by the locust; and what the locust did not take, has been food for the plant-worm; and what the plant-worm did not take, has been food for the field-fly.
(BBE)

Joel 2:25
I will give back to you the years which were food for the locust, the plant-worm, the field-fly, and the worm, my great army which I sent among you.
(BBE)

Field-fly (2 Occurrences)
Field-fly. Field, Field-fly. Field-mouse . Multi-Version Concordance
Field-fly (2 Occurrences). Joel 1:4 What the worm ...
/f/field-fly.htm - 7k

Plant-worm (2 Occurrences)
... taken by the locust; and what the locust did not take, has been food for the
plant-worm; and what the plant-worm did not take, has been food for the field-fly. ...
/p/plant-worm.htm - 7k

Field-mouse (1 Occurrence)
Field-mouse. Field-fly, Field-mouse. Fields . Multi-Version Concordance
Field-mouse (1 Occurrence). ... Field-fly, Field-mouse. Fields . Reference Bible.
/f/field-mouse.htm - 6k

Field (390 Occurrences)

/f/field.htm - 44k

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