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

The locusts were not given power to kill them
In the biblical context, locusts are often associated with destruction and judgment, as seen in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 10:12-15). However, these locusts are unique in that they are not permitted to kill. This limitation suggests a controlled judgment, emphasizing God's sovereignty even in wrath. The restraint shown here aligns with God's character of mercy, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, where His mercies are described as new every morning.

but only to torment them for five months
The five-month period is significant as it corresponds to the typical lifespan of a locust, from May to September in the Middle Eastern climate. This time frame indicates a temporary judgment, not eternal, reflecting God's patience and desire for repentance (2 Peter 3:9). The torment without death echoes the plagues in Egypt, where suffering was intended to lead to repentance and acknowledgment of God's power.

and their torment was like the stinging of a scorpion
The comparison to a scorpion's sting highlights the intense pain and suffering inflicted by these locusts. In the ancient Near East, scorpions were feared for their painful and sometimes deadly sting. This imagery conveys the severity of the judgment. The use of simile here underscores the symbolic nature of the vision, pointing to a spiritual or psychological torment rather than a physical one. This torment can be seen as a precursor to the final judgment, urging repentance and faith in Christ, who offers deliverance from such suffering (John 3:16-18).

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.