Revelation 9:5

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.

Study Bible

They were not given power to kill them
This phrase indicates a limitation placed upon the locust-like creatures described earlier in Revelation 9. The Greek word for "power" here is "ἐξουσία" (exousia), which often denotes authority or the right to act. In this context, it suggests that these creatures operate under divine permission, emphasizing God's sovereignty even in judgment. The restriction against killing highlights God's mercy, even amidst wrath, allowing time for repentance.

but only to torment them
The word "torment" comes from the Greek "βασανίζω" (basanizō), which means to torture or cause severe distress. This torment is not physical death but a severe affliction meant to lead to spiritual awakening. Historically, torment in biblical terms often serves as a precursor to repentance, urging individuals to turn back to God. This reflects God's desire for redemption rather than destruction.

for five months
The specific time frame of "five months" is significant. In the ancient world, the typical lifespan of a locust swarm was about five months, from May to September. This period symbolizes a complete but limited time of judgment. Biblically, the number five can represent grace, suggesting that even in judgment, God's grace is present, offering a finite period for humanity to seek repentance.

And their torment was like the stinging of a scorpion
The comparison to a scorpion's sting is vivid and terrifying. The Greek word for "stinging" is "κέντρον" (kentron), which refers to a sharp point or sting. Scorpions were well-known in the ancient Near East for their painful and sometimes deadly stings. This imagery conveys intense suffering and distress, serving as a metaphor for the spiritual and emotional agony experienced by those who reject God. The scorpion's sting, while painful, is not usually fatal, reinforcing the theme of torment without death and the opportunity for repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Locusts
These are not ordinary locusts but symbolic creatures released from the abyss, representing a form of divine judgment. They are given power to torment but not to kill.

2. The Abyss
A place of confinement for evil spirits, from which the locusts emerge. It symbolizes the source of demonic activity and judgment.

3. The Tormented
The people who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. They experience the torment inflicted by the locusts.

4. The Five Months
A specific period during which the torment occurs. This time frame may symbolize a limited period of judgment, reflecting the lifespan of a natural locust swarm.

5. The Scorpion's Sting
A metaphor for the intense pain and suffering inflicted by the locusts, emphasizing the severity of the judgment.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Judgment
The passage illustrates that God's judgments are purposeful and controlled. The locusts are limited in their power, showing that God remains sovereign even in judgment.

The Importance of God's Seal
Those without God's seal are tormented, emphasizing the protection and security found in belonging to God. Believers are called to ensure their lives reflect their identity in Christ.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
The torment by the locusts is a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle. Christians must remain vigilant and equipped with the armor of God.

The Call to Repentance
The limited time of torment (five months) suggests an opportunity for repentance. Believers should use times of trial to turn back to God and seek His mercy.

Hope in God's Sovereignty
Even in the midst of judgment, God's control and purpose offer hope. Believers can trust in His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the locusts in Revelation 9:5 challenge or reinforce your understanding of spiritual warfare?

2. In what ways can the concept of God's seal in Revelation 9:5 encourage you in your daily walk with Christ?

3. How does the limited time of torment (five months) reflect God's mercy and patience, and how can this understanding impact your approach to trials?

4. What parallels can you draw between the locusts in Revelation and the plagues in Egypt, and how do these events demonstrate God's power and purpose?

5. How can the metaphor of the scorpion's sting in Revelation 9:5 inform your understanding of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 10:12-15
The plague of locusts in Egypt serves as a historical parallel, illustrating God's power to use natural phenomena as instruments of judgment.

Joel 2:1-11
The prophet Joel describes a locust invasion as a day of the Lord, symbolizing impending judgment and calling for repentance.

Luke 10:19
Jesus gives His disciples authority over scorpions, symbolizing spiritual authority over demonic forces, contrasting with the torment in Revelation.

Ephesians 6:12
This verse highlights the spiritual warfare against evil forces, relevant to understanding the spiritual nature of the locusts' torment.