What does the Bible say about lice?

Answered by Frank Schwing

In the Bible, specifically in the book of Exodus, there is a mention of lice as one of the plagues that God sent upon Egypt. This event occurred during the time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, and Moses and his brother Aaron were sent by God to demand their freedom.

As part of the series of plagues, God instructed Moses to tell Aaron to raise his staff and strike the dust on the ground. When Aaron did this, the dust turned into lice, which infested the land of Egypt. The lice were a physical manifestation of God’s power and a sign of His authority over Egypt.

The plague of lice was the third plague to befall Egypt, following the turning of the Nile into blood and the infestation of frogs. The Bible does not provide many details about the specific nature of the lice, but it is believed that they were biting insects that caused great discomfort and annoyance.

This plague of lice served as a demonstration of God’s power and a warning to Pharaoh and the Egyptians. It was a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods and their supposed control over the land and its resources. The lice were a clear sign that the God of the Hebrews was superior and had the ability to assert His authority over the natural world.

It is important to note that the plagues in Egypt were not only meant to bring suffering but also to serve as a means of redemption for the Israelites. Through these plagues, God was showing His faithfulness to His chosen people and His willingness to deliver them from their bondage.

This account of the plague of lice highlights the power and sovereignty of God. It serves as a reminder that He is in control of all things, even the smallest creatures like lice. It also demonstrates that God can use any means necessary to accomplish His purposes and bring about His justice.

While this specific event of lice in the Bible is limited to the account in Exodus, it is worth noting that lice are mentioned in other parts of the Bible as well. In the book of Leviticus, lice are included in a list of unclean creatures that the Israelites were instructed to avoid. This serves as a reminder of the importance of cleanliness and hygiene in the biblical context.

The Bible does not provide extensive teachings or moral lessons specifically about lice. However, the account of the plague of lice in Exodus serves as a powerful reminder of God’s power, authority, and ability to intervene in the affairs of humanity. It also emphasizes the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s commands.