The term "King of the Locusts" is primarily associated with the apocalyptic imagery found in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 9:1-11. This passage describes a vision of a swarm of locusts emerging from the abyss, led by a king whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon and in Greek, Apollyon, both meaning "Destroyer."

Biblical Context

In Revelation 9:1-11, the Apostle John describes the sounding of the fifth trumpet, which heralds a series of judgments upon the earth. A star falls from heaven to earth, and to this star is given the key to the shaft of the abyss. When the abyss is opened, smoke rises like the smoke of a great furnace, and out of the smoke come locusts upon the earth. These locusts are given power like that of scorpions.

The locusts are commanded not to harm the grass, plants, or trees, but only those people who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. They are not permitted to kill these people but to torment them for five months. The torment is described as being like the sting of a scorpion. During this time, people will seek death but will not find it; they will long to die, but death will elude them.

The appearance of the locusts is described in vivid detail: they resemble horses prepared for battle, with crowns of gold on their heads, faces like human faces, hair like women's hair, teeth like lions' teeth, breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings like the thundering of many horses and chariots rushing into battle. They have tails with stingers like scorpions, and in their tails, they have power to torment people for five months.

The King: Abaddon/Apollyon

Revelation 9:11 states, "They have as king over them the angel of the abyss. His name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek it is Apollyon." This figure is identified as the leader of the locusts and is associated with destruction. The name "Abaddon" appears in the Old Testament as a place of destruction or the realm of the dead (e.g., Job 26:6; Proverbs 15:11), while "Apollyon" is the Greek equivalent, emphasizing the destructive nature of this being.

Theological Significance

The King of the Locusts, Abaddon/Apollyon, is often interpreted as a demonic figure or fallen angel, symbolizing the forces of chaos and destruction unleashed during the end times. The imagery of locusts, traditionally associated with devastation and judgment in the Old Testament (e.g., the plagues of Egypt in Exodus 10:1-20 and the prophecy of Joel), is intensified in Revelation to convey the severity of divine judgment upon unrepentant humanity.

From a theological perspective, the King of the Locusts serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that underlies the physical and moral realities of the world. The passage underscores the sovereignty of God, who permits these judgments as part of His divine plan, while also offering protection to those who are sealed as His own.

Interpretations and Symbolism

Throughout Christian history, interpretations of the King of the Locusts have varied. Some view the locusts and their king as symbolic representations of specific historical events or figures, while others see them as literal future occurrences. The symbolic interpretation often emphasizes the spiritual and moral decay that precedes the final judgment, with the locusts representing false teachings, heresies, or oppressive regimes.

In eschatological studies, the King of the Locusts is often linked to discussions about the Antichrist, demonic activity, and the ultimate triumph of Christ over evil. The passage serves as a call to vigilance, repentance, and faithfulness in anticipation of the fulfillment of God's redemptive purposes.