The Bible mentions grasshoppers in several instances, both in the Old and New Testaments. Let’s explore some of these references and see what the Bible has to say about grasshoppers.
1. Plagues of Egypt: Grasshoppers are famously mentioned in the book of Exodus during the plagues that afflicted Egypt. In Exodus 10:12-15, God sent a plague of locusts, which are a type of grasshopper, upon the land. These locusts destroyed crops and vegetation, causing great devastation. This event demonstrated God’s power and judgment upon Pharaoh and the Egyptians.
2. Promised Land: In Numbers 13:32-33, as you mentioned, the spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan described the inhabitants as “men of great stature.” They compared themselves to grasshoppers in their sight, implying that the people of Canaan seemed larger and stronger than them. This report filled the Israelites with fear and doubt, causing them to lose faith in God’s promise to give them the land.
3. God’s provision: Grasshoppers are also mentioned in the context of God’s provision for His people. In the book of Joel, a locust invasion is described as a judgment upon the land. However, in Joel 2:25, God promises to restore what the locusts had destroyed, symbolizing His faithfulness and restoration. In this sense, grasshoppers serve as a reminder of God’s sovereignty over nature and His ability to provide for His people.
4. John the Baptist: In the New Testament, grasshoppers are indirectly mentioned in relation to John the Baptist. In Matthew 3:4, it is said that John wore clothing made of camel’s hair and ate locusts and wild honey. The exact type of locusts mentioned here is uncertain, but it is believed to refer to a type of edible grasshopper that was consumed during that time. This description emphasizes John’s simplicity and his unconventional lifestyle as a prophet preparing the way for Jesus.
From these references, we can see that the Bible uses grasshoppers, particularly locusts, as symbols of God’s judgment, provision, and the challenges faced by His people. Grasshoppers also serve as a reminder of the importance of faith and trust in God’s promises, as seen in the story of the spies in the land of Canaan.