The event of the LORD removing the locusts is a significant moment in the narrative of the plagues that God sent upon Egypt, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. This event is part of the larger account of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, demonstrating God's power and sovereignty over creation and His commitment to His covenant people.

Biblical Context

The removal of the locusts occurs during the eighth plague that God inflicted upon Egypt. The plagues were divine judgments against Pharaoh and the gods of Egypt, intended to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. The account of the locusts is found in Exodus 10:1-20.

The Plague of Locusts

Before the plague, God instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh and warn him of the impending disaster if he refuses to let the Israelites go. The LORD says to Moses, "Go to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart and the hearts of his officials, so that I may perform these miraculous signs of Mine among them, and that you may tell your children and grandchildren how I dealt harshly with the Egyptians and how I performed My signs among them, and that you may know that I am the LORD" (Exodus 10:1-2).

Despite the warning, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, and he refuses to release the Israelites. Consequently, Moses stretches out his staff over the land of Egypt, and the LORD brings an east wind that carries a swarm of locusts. The locusts cover the land, consuming every plant and fruit left after the previous plague of hail. The devastation is so complete that "nothing green remained on any tree or plant in all the land of Egypt" (Exodus 10:15).

Pharaoh's Response and the LORD's Intervention

In desperation, Pharaoh summons Moses and Aaron, confessing his sin against the LORD and pleading for forgiveness. He asks them to pray to the LORD to remove the locusts. Moses prays, and the LORD responds by shifting the wind to a very strong west wind, which carries the locusts into the Red Sea, removing them entirely from Egypt. "Not a single locust remained in all the territory of Egypt" (Exodus 10:19).

Theological Significance

The removal of the locusts underscores several key theological themes:

1. Divine Sovereignty: The LORD's control over the natural world is evident as He commands the winds to bring and then remove the locusts. This demonstrates His supreme authority over creation.

2. Judgment and Mercy: The plagues serve as acts of judgment against Egypt's idolatry and oppression, yet they also reveal God's mercy. Despite Pharaoh's repeated hardening of heart, God provides opportunities for repentance and relief.

3. Covenant Faithfulness: The LORD's actions are in fulfillment of His promises to the patriarchs, affirming His faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. The plagues, including the removal of the locusts, are part of God's plan to deliver His people.

4. Human Responsibility: Pharaoh's hardened heart illustrates the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Despite witnessing God's power, Pharaoh's refusal to submit leads to further judgment.

The event of the LORD removing the locusts is a powerful testament to God's might and His unwavering commitment to His people, serving as a reminder of His ability to deliver and protect those who trust in Him.