Locust
NatureWhat is the meaning of Locust in the Bible?
The Hebrew and Greek biblical texts employ a diverse vocabulary to describe locusts, including terms such as arbeh, sal'am, chargol, haghabh, gazam, yeleq, chacil, gobh, gebh, tselatsal, and akris. These distinct lexical items often refer to specific life stages, morphological variations, or behavioral traits of acridid grasshoppers rather than serving as mere synonyms.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the specific biological and linguistic nuances of these terms allows readers to appreciate the precise nature of the devastation described in biblical texts. This clarity enhances the interpretation of the plagues in Exodus and the apocalyptic imagery in Revelation by grounding them in the tangible, recurring environmental threats that shaped the daily lives and theological worldview of ancient Near Eastern populations.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Locust in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Locust clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.