Biblical Reference:
The torment of the locusts is vividly described in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 9:1-11. This passage is part of the apocalyptic visions revealed to the Apostle John, detailing events associated with the sounding of the fifth trumpet.

Scriptural Account:
In Revelation 9:1-11 , the Apostle John writes:
"Then the fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from heaven to earth, and it was given the key to the pit of the abyss. The star opened the pit of the abyss, and smoke rose out of it like the smoke of a great furnace, and the sun and the air were darkened by the smoke from the pit. And out of the smoke, locusts descended on the earth, and they were given power like that of the scorpions of the earth. They were told not to harm the grass of the earth or any plant or tree, but only those who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads. The locusts were not given power to kill them, but only to torment them for five months, and their torment was like the stinging of a scorpion. In those days, men will seek death and will not find it; they will long to die, but death will escape them. The locusts looked like horses prepared for battle, with something like crowns of gold on their heads, and faces like the faces of men. They had hair like that of women, and teeth like those of lions. They also had thoraxes like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the roar of many horses and chariots rushing into battle. They had tails with stingers like scorpions, which had the power to injure people for five months. They were ruled by a king, the angel of the abyss. His name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek it is Apollyon."

Symbolism and Interpretation:
The torment of the locusts is a symbolic representation of divine judgment and spiritual warfare. The locusts, emerging from the abyss, signify a demonic force unleashed upon the earth. Their description as having the power to torment but not kill suggests a period of intense suffering and spiritual affliction. The imagery of locusts with human-like faces, lion's teeth, and scorpion tails emphasizes their terrifying and destructive nature.

The restriction placed upon the locusts—to harm only those without the seal of God—highlights the protection afforded to the faithful. This seal is often interpreted as a mark of divine ownership and protection, distinguishing believers from those subject to judgment.

Theological Significance:
The torment of the locusts serves as a stark reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare and the consequences of rejecting God's sovereignty. It underscores the theme of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over evil. The passage also reflects the mercy of God, as the torment is limited in duration and scope, allowing for repentance and redemption.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near East, locusts were a common and devastating plague, often associated with divine judgment. The imagery in Revelation draws upon this cultural understanding, amplifying it to convey the severity of the spiritual affliction described. The use of apocalyptic language and symbolism would have resonated deeply with the early Christian audience, who were familiar with Old Testament prophecies and the concept of cosmic battles between good and evil.

Conclusion:
The torment of the locusts in Revelation 9 serves as a powerful and sobering vision of the consequences of spiritual rebellion and the protective power of God's seal upon His people. It calls believers to remain steadfast in faith, assured of God's ultimate victory over the forces of darkness.