Exodus 10:15

They covered the face of all the land until it was black, and they consumed all the plants on the ground and all the fruit on the trees that the hail had left behind. Nothing green was left on any tree or plant in all the land of Egypt.

Study Bible

They covered the face of all the land until it was black
This phrase describes the overwhelming number of locusts that descended upon Egypt. The locust plague was the eighth of the ten plagues God sent to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. The imagery of the land turning black emphasizes the sheer density of the locust swarm, which blocked out the sunlight. In the ancient Near East, locust plagues were feared for their destructive power, as they could devastate crops and lead to famine. This event demonstrates God's control over nature and His ability to use it as a tool for judgment.

and they consumed all the plants on the ground and all the fruit on the trees that the hail had left behind
The locusts devoured everything that the previous plague of hail had not destroyed. This highlights the cumulative nature of the plagues, each one compounding the devastation of the last. The hail had already damaged the barley and flax crops, and now the locusts finished off what remained. This relentless destruction served to demonstrate the futility of resisting God's will. The locusts' consumption of the plants and fruit also symbolizes the stripping away of Egypt's resources and prosperity, a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods associated with fertility and agriculture.

Nothing green was left on any tree or plant in all the land of Egypt
This phrase underscores the totality of the destruction. The complete absence of greenery signifies not only physical desolation but also spiritual barrenness. In biblical symbolism, green often represents life and vitality, so its absence suggests a land under judgment and devoid of blessing. This devastation would have had severe economic and social implications for Egypt, leading to food shortages and economic collapse. The thoroughness of the locusts' destruction also prefigures the comprehensive nature of God's deliverance of His people, as He leaves no part of their bondage unaddressed. This event foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who brings complete salvation and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He is the one who, through God's power, brings the plagues upon Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that God sends as a demonstration of His power and judgment.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and where God demonstrates His power through the plagues, including the plague of locusts described in this verse.

4. Locusts
The agents of the eighth plague, sent by God to consume all the vegetation in Egypt, demonstrating His power over creation and judgment against Pharaoh's hardened heart.

5. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The plague of locusts is the eighth in this series.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
The plague of locusts demonstrates God's control over nature. He uses His creation to fulfill His purposes and execute judgment.

The Consequences of Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's command leads to severe consequences for Egypt. This serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice.

The Devastation of Sin
Just as the locusts devoured everything green, sin can consume and destroy the good in our lives if left unchecked.

God's Faithfulness to His People
Despite the devastation in Egypt, God is working to fulfill His promise to deliver Israel, showing His faithfulness to His covenant people.

Repentance and Restoration
The devastation caused by the locusts is a call to repentance, reminding us that turning back to God can lead to restoration and healing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plague of locusts in Exodus 10:15 illustrate God's power and sovereignty over creation?

2. In what ways can the hardness of Pharaoh's heart serve as a warning for us today in our relationship with God?

3. How does the devastation caused by the locusts parallel the destructive nature of sin in our lives?

4. What can we learn about God's faithfulness and His commitment to His promises from the events in Exodus 10:15?

5. How can the call to repentance seen in the aftermath of the locust plague be applied to our personal spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 1:4
This verse describes a locust invasion in Judah, drawing a parallel to the devastation in Egypt and serving as a call to repentance.

Revelation 9:3-4
Locusts are used symbolically in the end times, showing God's continued use of creation to execute judgment.

Psalm 105:34-35
This Psalm recounts the plagues, including the locusts, as a testament to God's mighty acts in delivering Israel.