What does Revelation 9:7 mean?

And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men. Revelation 9:7

Explanation

Revelation 9:7 describes a vision of creatures that John sees during the period of the fifth trumpet being sounded as part of the prophetic events in the book of Revelation. These creatures are depicted as “locusts” but with features and attributes that are both bizarre and intimidating: they resemble horses prepared for battle, suggesting strength and readiness for conflict; they have something like crowns of gold, indicating royalty or superiority; and their faces are compared to human faces, which may imply intelligence or discernment.

Given the highly symbolic nature of apocalyptic literature, this depiction is not meant to be a literal account of real insects but rather a metaphorical image conveying the severity and supernatural aspect of the forthcoming judgment or calamity.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written by John, traditionally considered to be John the Apostle, and is dated to the late first century AD. It was a time of persecution for the early Christian communities, particularly under the Roman Empire. The symbolism in Revelation often reflects the struggles and hopes of these early Christians, using vivid and sometimes cryptic imagery to convey spiritual truths and future promises.

Theological Insights

The passage is teeming with theological insights. Some scholars interpret the locusts as agents of divine punishment, comparing them to the plagues of Egypt. Others view them metaphorically as demonic forces or as representing invading armies, perhaps even as a veiled reference to the Roman legions with their battle-ready appearance.

From a preterist perspective, the events described could be seen as fulfilled in past historical events. In contrast, futurists believe they predict events yet to come. Amillennialists might see the locusts as representing ongoing spiritual struggles rather than a specific end-time event.

Practical Applications

While the literal image of locusts like war horses does not directly translate to everyday living, the spiritual lessons can be quite pertinent. Believers may reflect on this passage as a call to spiritual readiness and mindfulness of the cosmic battle between good and evil. It can also be a reminder of God’s sovereignty over all things, including calamity and judgment.

Additionally, this could serve as an allegory for the Christian to put on the “armor of God” and remain steadfast in faith during trials and tribulations.

Cross-References

• Revelation 9:3 – “And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth…”
• Joel 2:4 – “The appearance of them is as the appearance of horses; and as horsemen, so shall they run.”
• Revelation 9:19 – “For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails…”
• Ephesians 6:12 – “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers…”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, several key terms stand out:

• “locusts” (akrides): often symbolizes destruction or divine punishment.
• “horses” (hippoi): can symbolize war and conquest.
• “crowns” (stephanoi): can indicate victory or authority.
• “faces of men” (prosopon anthrōpōn): the word “prosopon” often implies presence or appearance.

Understanding these words in their original language adds depth to the symbolic meanings of the creatures John describes.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Ancient cultures often used hybrid creatures in their mythology to convey a mixture of attributes or powers. For example, the cherubim in Mesopotamian lore, similar to those in the Hebrew Bible, are composite beings. The description of the locusts in Revelation with human faces could partly draw from this cultural backdrop of symbolic creatures representing divine or supernatural forces.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, locusts are known for their destructive capabilities, particularly in swarming behavior. While there is no direct scientific explanation for the figurative language in this verse, one could consider it as an ancient attempt to portray chaos and destruction in the natural world through symbolic representation.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators have different takes on Revelation 9:7:

• Some, like Matthew Henry, view these locusts as symbolic of God’s judgments and the terror they inflict.
• Others, such as Craig Keener, suggest they could reflect ancient fears and apocalyptic expectations of the time.
• Modern commentators often focus on the literary and symbolic aspects of the text, noting the locusts’ composite nature highlighting the unnatural and terrifying aspect of the envisioned judgment.