Revelation 9:3

Translation
King James Version
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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World English Bible Messianic
Then out of the smoke came locusts on the earth, and power was given to them, as the scorpions of the earth have power.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And there came out of the smoke Locustes vpon the earth, and vnto them was giuen power, as the scorpions of the earth haue power.
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Young's Literal Translation
And out of the smoke came forth locusts to the earth, and there was given to them authority, as scorpions of the earth have authority,
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See also
Revelation 9:5Joel 1:4Deuteronomy 8:15Joel 2:25Revelation 9:10Revelation 9:111 Kings 12:11
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In the KJVVerse 30,844 of 31,102

Study This Verse

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. 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, 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. 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. 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.

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) 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. 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, 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) 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.

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 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). 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 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). 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). He is the one who holds the "keys of Death and Hades" (Revelation 1:18), 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) 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).

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Commentary on Revelation 9 verses 1–12

Upon the sounding of this trumpet, the things to be observed are, 1. A star falling from heaven to the earth. Some think this star represents some eminent bishop in the Christian church, some angel of the church; for, in the same way of speaking by which pastors are called stars, the church is called heaven; but who this is expositors do not agree. Some understand it of Boniface the third bishop of Rome, who assumed the title of universal bishop, by the favour of the emperor Phocas, who, being a usurper and tyrant in the state, allowed Boniface to be so in the church, as the reward of his flattery. 2. To this fallen star was given the key of the bottomless pit. Having now ceased to be a minister of Christ, he becomes the antichrist, the minister of the devil; and by the permission of Christ, who had taken from him the keys of the church, he becomes the devil's turnkey, to let loose the powers of hell against the churches of Christ. 3. Upon the opening of the bottomless pit there arose a great smoke, which darkened the sun and the air. The devils are the powers of darkness; hell is the place of darkness. The devil carries on his designs by blinding the eyes of men, by extinguishing light and knowledge, and promoting ignorance and error. He first deceives men, and then destroys them; wretched souls follow him in the dark, or they durst not follow him. 4. Out of this dark smoke there came a swarm of locusts, one of the plagues of Egypt, the devil's emissaries headed by the antichrist, all the rout and rabble of antichristian orders, to promote superstition, idolatry, error, and cruelty; and these had, by the just permission of God, power to hurt those who had not the mark of God in their foreheads. 5. The hurt they were to do them was not a bodily, but a spiritual hurt. They should not in a military way destroy all by fire and sword; the trees and the grass should be untouched, and those they hurt should not be slain; it should not be a persecution, but a secret poison and infection in their souls, which should rob them of their purity, and afterwards of their peace. Heresy is a poison in the soul, working slowly and secretly, but will be bitterness in the end. 6. They had no power so much as to hurt those who had the seal of God in their foreheads. God's electing, effectual, distinguishing grace will preserve his people from total and final apostasy. 7. The power given to these factors for hell is limited in point of time: five months, a certain season, and but a short season, though how short we cannot tell. Gospel-seasons have their limits, and times of seduction are limited too. 8. Though it would be short, it would be very sharp, insomuch that those who were made to feel the malignity of this poison in their consciences would be weary of their lives, Rev 9:6. A wounded spirit who can bear? 9. These locusts were of a monstrous size and shape, Rev 9:7, Rev 9:8, etc. They were equipped for their work like horses prepared to battle. (1.) They pretended to great authority, and seemed to be assured of victory: They had crowns like gold on their heads; it was not a true, but a counterfeit authority. (2.) They had the show of wisdom and sagacity, the faces of men, though the spirit of devils. (3.) They had all the allurements of seeming beauty, to ensnare and defile the minds of men - hair like women; their way of worship was very gaudy and ornamental. (4.) Though they appeared with the tenderness of women, they had the teeth of lions, were really cruel creatures. (5.) They had the defence and protection of earthly powers - breastplates of iron. (6.) They made a mighty noise in the world; they flew about from one country to another, and the noise of their motion was like that of an army with chariots and horses. (7.) Though at first they soothed and flattered men with a fair appearance, there was a sting in their tails; the cup of their abominations contained that which, though luscious at first, would at length bite like a serpent and sting like an adder. (8.) The king and commander of this hellish squadron is here described, [1.] As an angel; so he was by nature, an angel, once one of the angels of heaven. [2.] The angel of the bottomless pit; an angel still, but a fallen angel, fallen into the bottomless pit, vastly large, and out of which there is no recovery. [3.] In these infernal regions he is a sort of prince and governor, and has the powers of darkness under his rule and command. [4.] His true name is Abaddon, Apollyon - a destroyer, for that is his business, his design, and employment, to which he diligently attends, in which he is very successful, and takes a horrid hellish pleasure; it is about this destroying work that he sends out his emissaries and armies to destroy the souls of men. And now here we have the end of one woe; and where one ends another begins.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–12. Public domain.
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Shepherd of HermasAD 160
Shepherd of Hermas, Vision 4
But the sun now shone out a little, and, lo! I see a mighty beast like a whale, and out of its mouth fiery locusts proceeded.
TiconiusAD 390
COMMENTARY ON THE APOCALYPSE 9:3
In the locusts he signifies spiritual and adversarial powers that we see flying around in the air in the manner of locusts for the purpose of harming humankind.
Primasius of HadrumetumAD 560
COMMENTARY ON THE APOCALYPSE 9:3
The “locusts” signify those who come forth from the smoke. For, like smoke, the heretics desire to rise high, since by their teachings they strive for positions of eminence, yet, again like smoke, they are dissipated. We read of this smoke, for in the person of those who are evil it was said, “Smoke is the breath in our nostrils, and reason is the sparks for moving our heart.” When the impious are said to strive by sin against wisdom, that is, against the Lord Jesus Christ, they are also described as fighting against his church, harming it by their malicious mouth, while they are hindered from harming the green grass and trees.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on Revelation
And power was given to them, etc. Heretics are compared to opposing powers, seemingly innocent in appearance, but holding poison within their hind parts.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on Revelation
And out of the smoke came forth locusts upon the earth. Just as the saints are the body of Christ, and members from a member, so also the members of the flesh of the dragon are joined together, one being born from another, and the smoke of heretical blindness generates the pride of the wicked, harming them with its mouth. But those who are shaken off by pride do not forsake earthly things. For even the smoke from which they are born, though it seeks high places, always fails in itself.
Alcuin of YorkAD 804
COMMENTARY ON REVELATION
And from the smoke there came out locusts upon the earth. It is fitting for the heretics to be represented by locusts, for just as we see locusts, neither flying perfectly like birds nor walking by steps, but making leaps, chew up the crops of the earth, so do the heretics, having neither the flight of full knowledge nor the walk of perfect work, but only moved by the leaps of pride, kill the souls of the wicked by preaching unheard-of things. So locusts come out of the smoke when heretics are born from heretics. And power was given to them, as the scorpions of the earth have power. The power of scorpions is in the tail, which is at the end of the body: so is temporality left behind as it withdraws from itself; for everything that passes is, as it were, behind, while everything that remains is before. So the locusts receive power to hurt as the scorpions of the earth because the heretics, sustained by temporal powers, hurt only with what is behind.
OecumeniusAD 990
Commentary on Revelation
And from the smoke "locusts came out onto the earth". I believe the term "locusts" [ἀκρίδες] refers to worms, about which Isaiah says: "Their worm shall not die, and their fire shall not be quenched," (Isa. 66:24; Mark 9:48) possibly calling the worm the biting of the soul and the relentless and creeping pain.

And it was said that "they were given authority", just "as the scorpions of the earth have authority".
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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