The Plague of Locusts is the eighth of the ten plagues that God inflicted upon Egypt as described in the Book of Exodus. This event is a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Israelites' liberation from Egyptian bondage, demonstrating God's power and judgment against Pharaoh's hardened heart.

Biblical Account

The account of the Plague of Locusts is found in Exodus 10:1-20. The Lord instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh and deliver a message: "Let My people go, so that they may worship Me" (Exodus 10:3). God warns Pharaoh through Moses that if he refuses, He will bring locusts into the land. These locusts will cover the face of the earth and consume whatever is left after the previous plague of hail, including every tree and plant in the fields (Exodus 10:4-5).

Pharaoh's servants, recognizing the devastation already wrought upon Egypt, plead with him to let the Israelites go, but Pharaoh remains obstinate. He attempts to negotiate by allowing only the men to go and worship the Lord, but Moses insists that everyone, including women, children, and livestock, must be allowed to leave (Exodus 10:8-11).

The Plague Unleashed

When Pharaoh refuses to comply, Moses stretches out his staff over Egypt, and the Lord sends an east wind that brings a massive swarm of locusts. The locusts invade Egypt, covering the ground until it is black and consuming every plant and fruit left after the 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

In desperation, Pharaoh quickly summons Moses and Aaron, confessing his sin against the Lord and asking for forgiveness. He pleads with them to pray to the Lord to remove the locusts (Exodus 10:16-17). Moses prays, and the Lord shifts the wind to a strong west wind, which carries the locusts into the Red Sea, leaving not a single locust in Egypt (Exodus 10:18-19).

Despite this miraculous deliverance, the Lord hardens Pharaoh's heart once more, and he refuses to let the Israelites go (Exodus 10:20).

Theological Significance

The Plague of Locusts serves as a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty and His ability to control nature to fulfill His purposes. It underscores the futility of resisting God's will and the consequences of a hardened heart. The locusts, a symbol of destruction and judgment, highlight the severity of God's response to Pharaoh's continued defiance.

This plague also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, the Israelites. It is a step in the unfolding plan of redemption, leading to their eventual liberation and journey to the Promised Land. The narrative emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands and the recognition of His supreme authority over all creation.