Revelation 9:3

KJV

And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} there came {G1831} out of {G1537} the smoke {G2586} locusts {G200} upon {G1519} the earth {G1093}: and {G2532} unto them {G846} was given {G1325} power {G1849}, as {G5613} the scorpions {G4651} of the earth {G1093} have {G2192} power {G1849}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then out of the smoke onto the earth came locusts, and they were given power like the power scorpions have on earth.

Berean Standard Bible

And out of the smoke, locusts descended on the earth, and they were given power like that of the scorpions of the earth.

American Standard Version

And out of the smoke came forth locusts upon the earth; and power was given them, as the scorpions of the earth have power.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 9:3 describes a pivotal moment in the fifth trumpet judgment, where a terrifying, supernatural swarm of locusts emerges from a vast cloud of smoke that ascends from the bottomless pit. These entities are not ordinary insects but are endowed with a specific, delegated authority to inflict torment upon the earth's inhabitants, mirroring the painful sting of scorpions. This verse establishes the nature and source of their power, setting the stage for the detailed description of their appearance and destructive mission in the subsequent verses.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 9:3 is situated within the sequence of the trumpet judgments, specifically following the sounding of the fifth trumpet described in [Revelation 9:1](/revelation/9-1 "Revelation 9:1 - The Fifth Trumpet Sounds"). The preceding verses detail the fall of a "star from heaven" (often interpreted as an angel or demonic being) who is given the key to the bottomless pit, from which smoke and then these locusts emerge. This immediate context highlights the supernatural origin and the divine permission behind their appearance. The verse then introduces the nature of these creatures' power, which is further elaborated upon in [Revelation 9:4-11](/revelation/9-4-11 "Revelation 9:4-11 - Description and Mission of the Locusts"), specifying their targets and the duration of their torment. This progression underscores a methodical unfolding of divine judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of locust plagues would have been deeply familiar and terrifying to ancient audiences, particularly those in the Near East. Locusts were a common and devastating agricultural pest, capable of stripping entire regions bare, as vividly depicted in the [plagues of Egypt](/exodus/10 "Exodus 10 - The Plague of Locusts"). However, John's description quickly transcends natural phenomena, introducing elements like "smoke" from an "abyss" and "scorpions," which held significant cultural associations with danger, pain, and demonic forces. Scorpions were feared for their painful, often paralyzing, stings, making the comparison particularly potent. The concept of "power" or "authority" (Greek: _exousia_) was also critical in the Roman world, signifying delegated governmental or military might, which helps the reader understand the controlled, deliberate nature of the locusts' actions.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Revelation and biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Judgment**, where God actively intervenes in human history to bring consequences for sin and rebellion. The emergence of these locusts is a direct manifestation of this judgment, demonstrating that even seemingly chaotic events are under God's ultimate control. Another crucial theme is **Supernatural Agency**, as these are clearly not ordinary insects but spiritual or demonic entities. The phrase "unto them was given power" underscores the theme of **Delegated Authority**, emphasizing that their ability is not inherent but divinely permitted and limited, reinforcing God's absolute [sovereignty over all earthly events and judgments](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Finally, the comparison to scorpions highlights the theme of **Painful Torment**, indicating that the primary purpose of this judgment is to inflict severe suffering and spiritual distress rather than immediate physical destruction or death, as clarified in [Revelation 9:4](/revelation/9-4 "Revelation 9:4 - Limitations of the Locusts' Torment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **locusts (Greek, _akrís'_):** (G200) This word typically refers to the common locust, an insect known for its swarming and destructive feeding habits. However, in Revelation 9, the subsequent description of these "locusts" (in [Revelation 9:7-10](/revelation/9-7-10 "Revelation 9:7-10 - Detailed Description of the Locusts")) clearly distinguishes them from natural insects, depicting them with features like human faces, women's hair, lion's teeth, and scorpion's tails. This suggests a highly symbolic or demonic interpretation, indicating a supernatural, terrifying entity rather than a literal plague of insects.
* **given (Greek, _dídōmi'_):** (G1325) This verb signifies to "give," "bestow," or "grant." Its use here is crucial, as it emphasizes that the power these locusts possess is not inherent to them but is bestowed upon them by an external source—God Himself. This highlights the theme of divine permission and control over even destructive forces, underscoring that their actions are not arbitrary but are part of a divinely orchestrated judgment.
* **power (Greek, _exousía'_):** (G1849) This term denotes "privilege," "force," "capacity," "competency," "freedom," or "mastery," and specifically "delegated influence" or "authority." In this context, it signifies that the locusts operate with a specific, limited, and authorized capacity to inflict harm. It is not raw, uncontrolled might, but a sanctioned authority, reinforcing God's ultimate sovereignty and the precise nature of the judgment being unleashed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth:"** This clause describes the origin and initial appearance of these entities. The "smoke" is explicitly linked to the opening of the bottomless pit in [Revelation 9:1-2](/revelation/9-1-2 "Revelation 9:1-2 - The Bottomless Pit Opens"). This signifies a supernatural, demonic origin, as the abyss is often associated with the realm of evil spirits and imprisoned fallen angels. The "locusts" are therefore not natural creatures but symbolic or literal demonic beings, emerging from a place of darkness and spiritual confinement, spreading across the "earth" (G1093, _gē_), indicating their widespread impact on humanity.
* **"and unto them was given power,"** This phrase is critical for understanding the nature of the judgment. The passive voice "was given" (G1325, _dídōmi_) clearly indicates that their "power" (G1849, _exousía_) is not inherent but is delegated. This highlights God's ultimate sovereignty; even these destructive forces operate under His divine permission and within His ordained limits. Their capacity to act is entirely dependent on and controlled by God's will, emphasizing that this is a deliberate act of judgment.
* **"as the scorpions of the earth have power."** This final clause clarifies the *nature* of the power given to the locusts. The comparison to "scorpions" (G4651, _skorpíos_) is a vivid **simile**. Scorpions are known for their intensely painful, though often non-fatal, stings. This indicates that the primary purpose of these locusts is to inflict severe suffering and torment, rather than immediate death or physical destruction of the world. It foreshadows the five months of torment mentioned in [Revelation 9:5](/revelation/9-5 "Revelation 9:5 - The Five Months of Torment"), emphasizing agony over annihilation.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 9:3 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its terrifying message. The most prominent is **Symbolism**, where the "locusts" are not literal insects but represent supernatural, likely demonic, entities. Their emergence from "smoke" originating from the "bottomless pit" (implied from [Revelation 9:1-2](/revelation/9-1-2 "Revelation 9:1-2 - The Abyss and Smoke")) is symbolic of evil, judgment, and spiritual darkness unleashed. The comparison of their power to that of "scorpions" is a clear **Simile**, vividly communicating the nature of the torment they will inflict—intense pain without immediate death. This imagery is a form of **Apocalyptic Imagery**, designed to evoke a sense of awe, dread, and the supernatural, characteristic of the book of Revelation. The entire scene contributes to a sense of **Hyperbole**, as the description of these creatures and their effects goes far beyond natural phenomena, emphasizing the extraordinary and terrifying nature of divine judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 9:3 powerfully underscores the doctrine of divine sovereignty, even in the midst of terrifying judgment. The "locusts" are not autonomous agents of chaos but are explicitly "given power," signifying that their destructive capacity is entirely under God's control and permission. This highlights that all power, whether for creation or judgment, ultimately resides with God. The nature of their power, likened to scorpions, emphasizes a period of intense torment rather than immediate annihilation, serving as a severe call to repentance for those who remain unyielding. This judgment is not random but purposeful, designed to bring about a reckoning for humanity's rebellion against God.

* [Revelation 9:4](/revelation/9-4 "Revelation 9:4 - Limitations on the Locusts' Power")
* [Luke 10:19](/luke/10-19 "Luke 10:19 - Authority Over Serpents and Scorpions")
* [Exodus 10:12-15](/exodus/10-12-15 "Exodus 10:12-15 - The Plague of Locusts in Egypt")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 9:3 serves as a stark reminder of the reality and severity of divine judgment. It challenges us to consider the consequences of unrepentance and the profound seriousness with which God views sin. The fact that these terrifying entities are "given power" by God should evoke both awe at His ultimate sovereignty and a deep humility concerning human rebellion. For believers, this passage offers a paradoxical comfort: even in the midst of terrifying judgments, God remains firmly on the throne, orchestrating events according to His perfect will. It compels us to live lives marked by repentance, faithfulness, and a deep reliance on God's protective hand, knowing that His judgments are purposeful, often aimed at leading people to repentance before the final, ultimate judgment. It also reminds us that spiritual warfare is real, and evil forces, though powerful, are always subordinate to God's supreme authority.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "given power" in Revelation 9:3 shape your understanding of God's sovereignty over evil and suffering in the world?**
* **What might the "smoke" and the "bottomless pit" symbolize for us today regarding the origins of spiritual darkness and torment?**
* **If the purpose of these locusts is torment rather than death, what does this imply about God's desire for humanity even amidst judgment?**
* **How does understanding God's control over these judgments encourage or challenge your faith in times of global crisis or personal suffering?**

### FAQ
**Are these locusts literal insects or symbolic?**

Answer: While the term "locusts" (Greek: _akrís_) typically refers to the common insect, the detailed description in [Revelation 9:7-10](/revelation/9-7-10 "Revelation 9:7-10 - Description of the Locusts") clearly indicates they are not natural creatures. They possess features like human faces, women's hair, lion's teeth, and scorpion tails, and they emerge from the "bottomless pit" ([Revelation 9:1-2](/revelation/9-1-2 "Revelation 9:1-2 - The Abyss Opens")). Therefore, they are widely understood to be symbolic or literal demonic entities, supernatural in origin and purpose, rather than a natural plague.

**What is the significance of the "smoke" from which they emerge?**

Answer: The smoke that precedes the locusts is described in [Revelation 9:2](/revelation/9-2 "Revelation 9:2 - Smoke from the Abyss") as rising from the "bottomless pit" (Greek: _abyssos_), which is opened by a fallen star. In biblical imagery, smoke can symbolize God's presence, judgment, or the manifestation of evil. Here, it signifies the release of demonic forces from a place of confinement, indicating a spiritual and terrifying origin for the judgment, often associated with the realm of Satan and his demons.

**Why are they given "power as the scorpions of the earth have power"?**

Answer: This comparison is crucial for understanding the nature of the torment. Scorpions are known for their intensely painful, though usually non-fatal, stings. This signifies that the primary purpose of these locusts is to inflict severe, agonizing torment and suffering upon those who do not have the seal of God ([Revelation 9:4](/revelation/9-4 "Revelation 9:4 - Those Protected from Torment")). It highlights that this judgment is designed to bring about profound distress and pain, rather than immediate death or physical destruction, serving as a severe call to repentance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Revelation 9:3 describes a terrifying judgment, its Christ-centered fulfillment is found in understanding that even these dark manifestations of evil are ultimately subject to the sovereign authority of Christ. The "power" given to these demonic locusts is not inherent but delegated, underscoring that all power in heaven and on earth belongs to Jesus, who has "all authority" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). He is the one who holds the "keys of Death and Hades" ([Revelation 1:18](/revelation/1-18 "Revelation 1:18 - Christ Holds the Keys")), demonstrating His ultimate control over the very abyss from which these creatures emerge. The torment inflicted by these locusts, while severe, is limited in scope and duration, serving as a prelude to Christ's final and decisive victory over all evil. For believers, the promise of protection from this torment ([Revelation 9:4](/revelation/9-4 "Revelation 9:4 - Protection for the Sealed")) is a testament to Christ's redemptive work and His sealing of His people by the Holy Spirit, ensuring their security amidst judgment. Ultimately, these judgments, though terrifying, serve to highlight the absolute necessity of repentance and faith in Christ, the one who bore the ultimate torment on the cross to deliver humanity from the power of sin and death, offering eternal salvation and protection from the wrath to come ([Romans 5:9](/romans/5-9 "Romans 5:9 - Saved from Wrath Through Christ")).

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

Revelation 9:5

And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment [was] as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man.

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.

Deuteronomy 8:15

Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, [wherein were] fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where [there was] no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint;

Joel 2:25

And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you.

Revelation 9:10

And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power [was] to hurt men five months.

Revelation 9:11

And they had a king over them, [which is] the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon.

1 Kings 12:11

And now whereas my father did lade you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke: my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.