Exodus 10:14

KJV

And the locusts went up over all the land of Egypt, and rested in all the coasts of Egypt: very grievous [were they]; before them there were no such locusts as they, neither after them shall be such.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the locusts {H697} went up {H5927} over all the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}, and rested {H5117} in all the coasts {H1366} of Egypt {H4714}: very {H3966} grievous {H3515} were they; before {H6440} them there were no such {H3651} locusts {H697} as they, neither after {H310} them shall be such.

Complete Jewish Bible

The locusts went up over all the land of Egypt and settled throughout Egypt's territory. It was an invasion more severe than there had ever been before or will ever be again.

Berean Standard Bible

The locusts swarmed across the land and settled over the entire territory of Egypt. Never before had there been so many locusts, and never again will there be.

American Standard Version

And the locusts went up over all the land of Egypt, and rested in all the borders of Egypt; very grievous were they; before them there were no such locusts as they, neither after them shall be such.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 10:14 serves as a stark declaration of the unparalleled severity and pervasive reach of the eighth plague, the locusts, unleashed upon Egypt. This verse emphatically states that the magnitude of this divine judgment was utterly unique, unprecedented in history, and never to be repeated, thereby underscoring God's absolute sovereignty over creation and the profound, escalating consequences of Pharaoh's unyielding rebellion against the divine will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically positioned at the climax of the eighth plague narrative, immediately following [Exodus 10:13](/exodus/10-13 "Moses stretches his rod, and the east wind brings the locusts"), which details Moses's act of stretching his rod and the subsequent arrival of the east wind, bringing the locusts. It sets the stage for the devastating impact described in [Exodus 10:15](/exodus/10-15 "Locusts cover the land and devour all vegetation"), where the complete consumption of all vegetation is recounted. This precise sequence emphasizes the direct cause-and-effect relationship between God's command and the plague's swift, comprehensive execution, highlighting the inescapable nature of divine judgment and its thoroughness in dismantling Egypt's agricultural foundation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was an agrarian civilization, its very existence and prosperity inextricably linked to the annual inundation of the Nile River, which fertilized the land for bountiful harvests. While locust plagues were a known, albeit infrequent, natural calamity in the ancient Near East, capable of precipitating widespread famine, the plague described in Exodus 10 transcends mere natural disaster. It was a direct, supernatural intervention designed to systematically dismantle Egypt's economic stability and, more profoundly, to challenge the supremacy of its pantheon. Egyptian deities such as Renenutet (goddess of harvest and fertility) and Seth (god of chaos and storms, sometimes associated with protecting crops) would have been perceived as utterly powerless against this unprecedented scourge. The unique and unrepeatable nature of this specific plague would have been understood not merely as a catastrophe, but as an undeniable, direct assault by the God of Israel against the core fabric of Egyptian life and their revered gods, unequivocally demonstrating Yahweh's unparalleled power and authority.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 10:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost among these is the theme of **Divine Judgment** against human rebellion and idolatry, showcasing God's righteous wrath against Pharaoh's hardened heart and Egypt's oppressive system. The plague also vividly illustrates **God's Absolute Sovereignty over Creation**, as He commands natural elements like winds and insects to serve His purposes, demonstrating His power to both create and manipulate the natural order. Furthermore, the declaration that "before them there were no such locusts as they, neither after them shall be such" underscores the theme of **God's Uniqueness and Incomparability**, asserting that Yahweh is unlike any other deity or force, a truth consistently affirmed throughout Scripture (e.g., [Deuteronomy 32:39](/deuteronomy/32-39 "See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me")). This plague, like the others, served to reveal God's glory to both Egyptians and Israelites, solidifying His identity as the one true God who delivers His people (as seen in [Exodus 9:16](/exodus/9-16 "God raised Pharaoh up to show His power")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Coasts (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwl'_):** From H1366, this word properly refers to "a cord (as twisted), i.e. (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed." In this context, "all the coasts of Egypt" signifies the entirety of the land, from border to border, emphasizing the comprehensive and inescapable nature of the locust invasion. It underscores that no part of Egypt, no matter how remote, was spared from the plague's reach.
* **Grievous (Hebrew, _kâbêd'_):** From H3515, this term means "heavy," but figuratively it conveys "severe, difficult, stupid." When combined with "very" (H3966, _mᵉʼôd'_), it forms a powerful superlative, indicating an "exceedingly heavy" or "very severe" burden. This is not merely a quantitative description of the locusts' numbers but speaks to the oppressive weight, the profound suffering, and the overwhelming difficulty they imposed upon the land and its inhabitants. It implies a physical, economic, and psychological burden that was almost unbearable, mirroring its use to describe the "very grievous" hail in [Exodus 9:24](/exodus/9-24 "The very grievous hail in Egypt").
* **After (Hebrew, _ʼachar'_):** From H310, this word primarily denotes "the hind part" or "behind," and is commonly used as an adverb or conjunction to mean "after" in various temporal senses. Its inclusion in the phrase "neither after them shall be such" forcefully declares the future non-occurrence of a similar event. This emphasizes the unique, unrepeatable, and singular nature of this specific plague, setting it apart as a one-time divine act of judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the locusts went up over all the land of Egypt, and rested in all the coasts of Egypt:"** This opening clause vividly establishes the plague's pervasive and overwhelming nature. The verb "went up" (from H5927, _ʻâlâh'_) suggests a rising, ascending movement, perhaps referring to the sheer volume of locusts filling the air, or their widespread ascent over the entire landscape. The phrase "over all the land" and "rested in all the coasts" (or "borders") emphatically conveys their total infestation, from one end of the nation to the other. This imagery evokes a sense of inescapable doom, as no region, no field, no dwelling was spared from their presence, leaving no refuge for the Egyptians.
* **"very grievous [were they];"** This concise yet potent declaration, translating the Hebrew `כָּבֵד מְאֹד` (_kaved me'od_), signifies more than just the immense number of locusts. As detailed in the key word analysis, "grievous" (H3515, _kâbêd'_) combined with "very" (H3966, _mᵉʼôd'_) speaks to the profound severity, the crushing weight, and the immense suffering caused by the plague. It describes an oppressive density and destructive power that was physically and psychologically burdensome, highlighting the intense hardship inflicted upon Egypt.
* **"before them there were no such locusts as they, neither after them shall be such."** This powerful, double-negative declaration underscores the plague's utterly unique and supernatural character. It is an emphatic statement of divine singularity, asserting that this event was not merely a natural disaster of unusual magnitude, but a singular, unprecedented act orchestrated by God. The repeated negation ("no such... neither after them") functions to magnify God's power and to demonstrate that He is utterly unique in His ability to execute such a precise, overwhelming, and unrepeatable judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 10:14 employs several powerful literary devices to convey the magnitude and significance of the locust plague. **Hyperbole** is evident in the declaration "before them there were no such locusts as they, neither after them shall be such." While locust plagues were a known phenomenon, this statement exaggerates the scale to emphasize the unique, divinely orchestrated nature of this particular event, setting it apart from any natural occurrence. This hyperbole serves to magnify God's power and the plague's unprecedented severity. Closely related is **Emphasis**, achieved through the strong, repetitive negation ("no such... neither after them"). This rhetorical technique ensures the reader grasps the singular, unrepeatable quality of this judgment, underscoring God's ultimate control and the finality of His decree. Furthermore, the vivid imagery of locusts "going up over all the land" and "resting in all the coasts" creates a sense of **Totalization** or **Pervasiveness**, painting a picture of complete and inescapable devastation, leaving no corner of Egypt untouched. These devices collectively contribute to the awe-inspiring and terrifying portrayal of God's judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 10:14 powerfully communicates several core theological truths that resonate throughout biblical revelation. The unprecedented scale and unique nature of the locust plague unequivocally demonstrate God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, revealing His capacity not merely to create, but to command and manipulate the natural world for His redemptive and judgmental purposes. This plague, as the eighth in a series of escalating judgments, vividly illustrates the grave consequences of persistent defiance against God's will, underscoring the principle that God's patience is not infinite and continued rebellion invites increasingly severe divine retribution. Pharaoh's hardened heart brought escalating devastation upon his nation, a pattern that serves as a timeless warning. Moreover, the declaration that "there were no such locusts... neither after them shall be such" highlights God's singular power and His incomparability, asserting that He is utterly unique among all powers and deities.

* [Romans 2:5](/romans/2-5 "God's righteous judgment against unrepentant hearts")
* [Deuteronomy 3:24](/deuteronomy/3-24 "No god in heaven or on earth can do what you do")
* [Isaiah 45:5](/isaiah/45-5 "I am the Lord, and there is no other")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 10:14 stands as a profound reminder of God's immense power and His righteous judgment against persistent rebellion. While we do not experience literal plagues in the same way today, the underlying principles remain vitally relevant for our lives. This verse challenges us to consider the "grievous" consequences that can arise from a hardened heart and persistent disobedience to God's commands. Just as Pharaoh's refusal to yield brought escalating devastation upon his nation, our own unrepentant resistance to God's truth can lead to increasingly severe spiritual, relational, or even physical repercussions. Conversely, this passage also highlights God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people and His absolute power to deliver them from oppression. Just as He acted decisively for Israel, He remains sovereign over all circumstances, capable of delivering His people and executing justice. This passage encourages us to recognize God's absolute sovereignty over all creation and to respond to His will with humility, obedience, and trust, knowing that He is both perfectly just and abundantly merciful, always acting in accordance with His character and redemptive purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might you be resisting God's will, and what "grievous" consequences might that resistance be inviting?**
* **How does the "unprecedented" nature of this plague deepen your understanding of God's power and uniqueness compared to any human or natural force?**
* **Considering God's judgment on Pharaoh, what does this verse teach us about the importance of repentance and humility before God?**

### FAQ
**Was this locust plague literally unique, or is "no such locusts" a hyperbole?**

Answer: While locust plagues were a known natural phenomenon in the ancient world, the biblical text emphasizes the *unprecedented* and *unrepeatable* nature of this specific plague. The language "before them there were no such locusts as they, neither after them shall be such" is strong rhetorical emphasis, often understood as **hyperbole** used to underscore its unique divine origin and the specific judgment it represented. It was not merely a natural event of unusual magnitude, but a divinely orchestrated, supernatural act that set it apart from any typical locust infestation. This highlights God's singular power and purpose in bringing this particular judgment upon Egypt, demonstrating His absolute control over creation.

**Why would God use such a destructive plague? Isn't that harsh?**

Answer: The plagues were not arbitrary acts of destruction but purposeful judgments against Pharaoh's persistent rebellion and the idolatry of Egypt. Each plague targeted a specific aspect of Egyptian life or a deity, systematically demonstrating Yahweh's supremacy over the Egyptian pantheon. The escalating severity, culminating in this devastating plague, was meant to break Pharaoh's hardened heart, to show the Egyptians (and the Israelites) the power of the one true God, and to secure the release of God's enslaved people. From a biblical perspective, God's justice is always righteous, and His actions are ultimately aimed at revealing His glory and fulfilling His redemptive plan for His people, even if it involves severe judgment on those who oppose Him.

**How does this ancient plague relate to natural disasters we experience today?**

Answer: While we don't typically interpret modern natural disasters as direct, specific judgments in the same way the plagues on Egypt were, this passage reminds us of God's ultimate sovereignty over creation. Natural disasters, though often part of the fallen world's brokenness and the general consequences of sin, can serve as powerful reminders of human fragility, the need for repentance, and God's ultimate control. They can prompt us to seek God, trust in His providence, and live in light of His eternal kingdom, rather than relying on earthly securities. The Exodus plagues, however, are distinct in their specific, targeted, and miraculous nature as part of a unique redemptive-historical event designed to deliver Israel and reveal God's glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 10:14, with its depiction of overwhelming judgment and the unique, unparalleled power of God, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The plague of locusts, like all the plagues, was a tangible demonstration of God's righteous wrath against sin and rebellion, specifically against Pharaoh's unyielding refusal to release God's people from bondage. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as the ultimate deliverer who liberates humanity from a far greater bondage: the slavery to sin and death, offering true freedom to all who believe in Him, as declared in [John 8:34-36](/john/8-34-36 "Jesus speaks of freedom from sin") and [Romans 6:22](/romans/6-22 "Freed from sin, enslaved to God").

Furthermore, the "very grievous" and "unprecedented" nature of this plague powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and final judgment that will be poured out on all who reject God, a judgment that Christ himself uniquely bore on the cross. On the cross, Jesus experienced the full, unprecedented wrath of God against sin, becoming the "grievous" burden, suffering the ultimate consequences of humanity's rebellion, so that those who believe in Him might be spared from that wrath ([Romans 5:9](/romans/5-9 "Saved from wrath through Him")). He absorbed the judgment we deserved, making possible a "greater exodus" from the dominion of darkness into the glorious kingdom of light ([Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Delivered from the domain of darkness")). Thus, the terrifying judgment in Exodus 10:14 points forward to the merciful yet costly deliverance accomplished by Christ, who uniquely absorbed the judgment we deserved, securing our eternal freedom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 78:46

He gave also their increase unto the caterpiller, and their labour unto the locust.

1 Kings 8:37

If there be in the land famine, if there be pestilence, blasting, mildew, locust, [or] if there be caterpiller; if their enemy besiege them in the land of their cities; whatsoever plague, whatsoever sickness [there be];

Exodus 10:5

And they shall cover the face of the earth, that one cannot be able to see the earth: and they shall eat the residue of that which is escaped, which remaineth unto you from the hail, and shall eat every tree which groweth for you out of the field:

Exodus 10:6

And they shall fill thy houses, and the houses of all thy servants, and the houses of all the Egyptians; which neither thy fathers, nor thy fathers' fathers have seen, since the day that they were upon the earth unto this day. And he turned himself, and went out from Pharaoh.

Joel 1:2

Hear this, ye old men, and give ear, all ye inhabitants of the land. Hath this been in your days, or even in the days of your fathers?

Joel 1:4

That which the palmerworm hath left hath the locust eaten; and that which the locust hath left hath the cankerworm eaten; and that which the cankerworm hath left hath the caterpiller eaten.

Joel 2:1

¶ Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for [it is] nigh at hand;