The Fifth Trumpet: The Plague of Locusts (Revelation 9:1-12)

I was curious to learn what chatgpt 4 would say about the plague of Lucusts in the Book of Revelation, chapter 9:1-12. This is what I got initially:

Revelation 9 is a chapter in the Bible that describes two of the seven trumpet judgments, which are part of the apocalyptic visions revealed to the Apostle John. The chapter is vivid and symbolic, depicting the unleashing of destructive forces upon the earth. Here’s a summary of the main points:

1. The Fifth Trumpet: The Plague of Locusts (Revelation 9:1-12)

• The Fallen Star: The chapter begins with a star that had fallen from heaven to earth. This star is often interpreted as a fallen angel, possibly Satan or a powerful demon. The star is given the key to the Abyss (a bottomless pit), symbolizing a release of evil forces.
• The Abyss Opens: When the Abyss is opened, smoke rises, darkening the sky, and out of the smoke come locusts with the power to torment people. These locusts are not ordinary insects; they are symbolic creatures with features resembling horses, human faces, women’s hair, lions’ teeth, and tails like scorpions.
• The Torment: The locusts are commanded not to harm the earth’s vegetation but only the people who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. The torment they inflict is so intense that people will seek death but will not find it. The torment lasts for five months.
• The King of the Locusts: The leader of these locusts is named Abaddon in Hebrew and Apollyon in Greek, both meaning “destroyer.” This figure is associated with destruction and chaos.

 

I then asked about the main interpretations found on the internet:

The fifth trumpet in Revelation 9, which describes the release of locust-like creatures from the Abyss, has been interpreted in various ways throughout Christian history. These interpretations generally fall into four broad categories: historical, futurist, preterist, and spiritual/symbolic. Here’s a summary of each approach:

1. Historical Interpretation

• Explanation: This view sees the events described as symbolic of historical events that have already occurred or were occurring at the time of the interpretation.
• Application to the Fifth Trumpet:
  • The “fallen star” is often interpreted as a significant historical figure, such as a military leader, religious figure, or even Satan himself, symbolizing the release of destructive forces in history.
  • The “locusts” are sometimes seen as representing invading armies or political entities that brought widespread suffering and destruction. For example, some interpreters from the Reformation period viewed the locusts as representing the rise of Islam or specific invasions by groups like the Saracens.
  • The five-month period is sometimes interpreted as a specific historical duration of intense suffering or a period of persecution by a particular regime.

2. Futurist Interpretation

• Explanation: Futurists believe that the events described in Revelation, including the fifth trumpet, will occur in the future, particularly during a seven-year period known as the Great Tribulation.
• Application to the Fifth Trumpet:
  • The “fallen star” is often identified with Satan or a high-ranking demonic being who will be given the authority to release demons from the Abyss in the end times.
  • The “locusts” are viewed as demonic beings that will literally torment people during the Great Tribulation. Their bizarre appearance is often taken literally, though some see it as representing their terrifying and supernatural nature.
  • The torment inflicted by these locusts, which causes people to wish for death but not find it, is seen as a future judgment on those who have rejected God.

3. Preterist Interpretation

• Explanation: The preterist approach interprets Revelation as describing events that took place in the first century, particularly the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD and the persecution of early Christians.
• Application to the Fifth Trumpet:
  • The “fallen star” might be seen as a symbol of a specific Roman or Jewish leader who played a role in the events leading up to the destruction of Jerusalem.
  • The “locusts” could symbolize the Roman armies or other forces that brought devastation to Judea, particularly in the siege of Jerusalem. Their torment of those without the “seal of God” might refer to the suffering of the Jewish people who did not accept Christ.
  • The five months could correspond to a specific period during the siege or another historical event relevant to that time.

4. Spiritual/Symbolic Interpretation

• Explanation: This interpretation sees the events in Revelation, including the fifth trumpet, as symbolic of ongoing spiritual realities rather than specific historical events.
• Application to the Fifth Trumpet:
  • The “fallen star” could represent the fall of a spiritual leader or an angelic being, symbolizing a release of evil influences in the world.
  • The “locusts” are seen as representations of spiritual or psychological torment, symbolizing the inner anguish and despair that come from separation from God. This torment might be seen as part of the ongoing struggle between good and evil in the human soul.
  • The five-month period could symbolize a limited but intense period of spiritual trial or temptation that believers or humanity as a whole must endure.

Additional Interpretations:

• Catholic Interpretation: Catholic interpretations often align with the symbolic or historical perspectives, emphasizing the role of the Church and the spiritual battle against evil forces. The locusts could be seen as symbolic of heresies or destructive ideologies that torment the soul.
• Dispensational Interpretation: In dispensationalist thought, which is a specific branch of futurism, the events are seen as part of a literal, future tribulation period. The locusts might be understood as actual demonic entities or even as a metaphor for modern warfare technology, like helicopters, depending on the interpreter.
• Moral/Allegorical Interpretation: Some interpret the passage allegorically, seeing the locusts as representing sins, vices, or false teachings that torment those who are not protected by the “seal of God,” which could represent faith or righteousness.

Each interpretation offers a different lens through which to understand the vivid and disturbing imagery of the fifth trumpet in Revelation 9, reflecting broader theological perspectives and historical contexts.

More details about the Dispensational interpretation:

The dispensational interpretation of Revelation 9, particularly the fifth trumpet, is a specific type of futurist interpretation commonly associated with dispensationalist theology. Dispensationalism is a framework for interpreting the Bible that sees history as divided into different periods or “dispensations” in which God interacts with humanity in distinct ways. Here’s a detailed look at how dispensationalists interpret the fifth trumpet:

Overview of Dispensationalism

• Distinct Dispensations: Dispensationalism views history as divided into several dispensations, each with a specific way that God relates to humanity. The current dispensation is often seen as the “Church Age,” and the events described in Revelation are believed to occur during the final dispensation, often called the “Tribulation.”
• Literal Interpretation: Dispensationalists tend to interpret biblical prophecies, including the Book of Revelation, in a more literal manner. This means that they often view the events described as actual future occurrences rather than purely symbolic or allegorical.

Interpretation of the Fifth Trumpet (Revelation 9:1-12)

1. The Fallen Star:
   • Literal Being: The fallen star is usually identified as a literal being, often believed to be Satan or a high-ranking demon. This being has been given authority by God to open the Abyss, releasing the forces of evil upon the earth. This interpretation aligns with the dispensationalist view that the Tribulation is a time of increased demonic activity.
   • Satan’s Role: Some dispensationalists specifically link the fallen star to a moment when Satan is cast down from heaven, as described in other parts of Revelation (e.g., Revelation 12:7-9). This event marks the beginning of Satan’s intensified assault on humanity during the Tribulation.
2. The Abyss and the Locusts:
   • Literal Demonic Creatures: The locusts are seen as actual demonic entities that will be released during the Tribulation. These creatures are not considered symbolic but are interpreted as real, malevolent beings with supernatural characteristics. Their strange appearance—resembling horses, with faces like humans, crowns of gold, hair like women, teeth like lions, and tails like scorpions—is often taken at face value, emphasizing their terrifying nature.
   • Demonic Torment: These demonic locusts are given the power to torment people who do not have the “seal of God” on their foreheads. In dispensational thought, the “seal of God” could represent those who have come to faith during the Tribulation, possibly a specific group of believers who are protected from this particular judgment.
   • Advanced Technology Interpretation: Some dispensationalists, especially those influenced by modern technological developments, have speculated that the description of the locusts might be a metaphor for advanced military technology. For example, they might suggest that the locusts are a prophetic vision of attack helicopters or other war machines that John, with his first-century perspective, described using the imagery familiar to him.
3. The Five Months of Torment:
   • Literal Time Period: Dispensationalists typically interpret the five months as a literal time period during the Tribulation when these demonic creatures will inflict torment on humanity. This period is characterized by intense suffering, where people will seek death but will be unable to die. The inability to die may be seen as a supernatural restraint imposed by God to prolong the suffering as part of His judgment.
   • Psychological and Physical Suffering: The torment is often interpreted as both psychological and physical, inflicted directly by these demonic beings. This aligns with the dispensationalist view that the Tribulation will be a time of unprecedented suffering and chaos on earth.
4. The King of the Locusts: Abaddon/Apollyon:
   • Literal Demonic Leader: Abaddon (Hebrew) or Apollyon (Greek), meaning “Destroyer,” is viewed as the literal leader of these demonic forces. He is often identified as a powerful demon or even Satan himself, who leads the locusts in their mission of destruction.
   • Personification of Destruction: In dispensationalist thought, this figure represents the personification of destruction and is a central agent in carrying out the judgments of God during the Tribulation.

Significance in Dispensational Theology

• Judgment and the End Times: The fifth trumpet is seen as one of a series of escalating judgments that God pours out during the Tribulation, leading up to the Second Coming of Christ. Dispensationalists believe that these judgments are literal events that will unfold in the future.
• Separation of the Church and Israel: Dispensationalism often emphasizes a distinction between the Church (believers in Christ during the Church Age) and Israel (the Jewish people and those who come to faith during the Tribulation). The locusts’ torment might be seen as targeting those who are not part of the Church (which some dispensationalists believe will be raptured before the Tribulation) and who do not bear the seal of God.
• Encouragement for Believers: While dispensationalists believe that the Tribulation will be a time of great suffering, they also see these events as ultimately leading to the return of Christ and the establishment of His millennial kingdom. This future hope provides encouragement for believers to remain faithful.

Modern Dispensational Interpretations

• Popular Culture Influence: Some modern dispensationalist interpretations have been popularized through books, films, and other media, such as the “Left Behind” series. These interpretations often dramatize the events of Revelation, including the fifth trumpet, with an emphasis on their literal fulfillment in the near future.
• Prophetic Speculation: Dispensationalists sometimes engage in prophetic speculation, trying to identify current events or technological developments that might relate to the events described in Revelation. The imagery of the fifth trumpet, with its bizarre and terrifying locusts, often serves as a focal point for such speculation.

In summary, the dispensational interpretation of the fifth trumpet in Revelation 9 is characterized by a literal understanding of the text, viewing the locusts as actual demonic beings or possibly modern military technology that will be unleashed during a future period of intense judgment known as the Tribulation. This interpretation fits within the broader dispensational framework, which sees the Book of Revelation as a roadmap for future events leading to the end of the age and the return of Christ.

And finally what Latter-day Saints authors and prophets have said about it:

Latter-day Saints (LDS), or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have their own perspectives on the Book of Revelation, including Revelation 9. The teachings and interpretations provided by LDS leaders and scholars often emphasize symbolic meanings, spiritual preparation, and the fulfillment of prophecies within the context of the restoration of the gospel. While there isn’t an exhaustive doctrinal stance on every detail in Revelation 9, certain key themes have been addressed by LDS leaders and authors.

General LDS Perspective on Revelation

• Prophecy and Symbolism: LDS teachings generally regard the Book of Revelation as highly symbolic, with its prophecies relating to the last days and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The events described are seen as both literal and symbolic, with a strong emphasis on spiritual preparedness.
• Revelation as a Sealed Book: LDS theology, informed by the Book of Mormon and other modern revelations, sometimes speaks of the Book of Revelation as a “sealed” book, meaning its full understanding may be revealed progressively as the end times approach.

Interpretations of Revelation 9

1. The Fifth Trumpet and the Locusts:
   • Symbolic Representation of Evil: LDS commentators and leaders often interpret the locusts in Revelation 9 as symbolic representations of evil influences and demonic forces that will be unleashed in the last days. The locusts’ power to torment those without the “seal of God” is seen as indicative of spiritual and moral challenges that will afflict those who are not spiritually protected.
   • Warnings for the Last Days: The torment described in Revelation 9 is often understood as a warning for those living in the latter days to be spiritually vigilant. This includes staying true to the covenants made with God, remaining righteous, and being prepared for the trials that will precede the Second Coming.
2. The Fallen Star:
   • Satan or a Fallen Angel: Similar to other Christian interpretations, LDS teachings often view the fallen star as representing Satan or a powerful fallen angel who is given temporary power to unleash destructive forces. This aligns with broader LDS teachings about the war in heaven, where Satan and his followers were cast out, and their ongoing opposition to God’s plan.
3. The Abyss and the Role of Evil:
   • The Release of Evil: The opening of the Abyss and the release of the locusts are seen as symbolic of the unleashing of evil in the world as part of the last days. LDS teachings emphasize that God permits this as part of the testing and purification of humanity, allowing evil to have its moment before being ultimately defeated.
   • Spiritual Protection: The “seal of God” mentioned in Revelation 9 is interpreted by LDS leaders as symbolic of those who are spiritually protected through their faithfulness to God’s commandments. This protection is particularly relevant in LDS teachings about the latter days, where remaining true to the faith is seen as essential for withstanding the challenges ahead.
4. Modern Prophetic Teachings:
   • Warnings from LDS Prophets: Modern LDS prophets have often used the imagery of Revelation, including the fifth trumpet, to emphasize the importance of spiritual readiness and the reality of Satan’s influence in the world. While they may not provide detailed interpretations of every symbol in Revelation 9, they often refer to the need to be vigilant against spiritual dangers.
   • Emphasis on Preparation: LDS teachings stress the importance of preparing for the Second Coming of Christ, which includes being aware of the signs of the times. The locusts’ torment is often cited as a reminder of the suffering that comes from spiritual unpreparedness and the need to remain steadfast in the faith.

Additional Context from LDS Scripture

• Doctrine and Covenants: In LDS theology, additional revelations found in the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) provide further insight into the last days. For example, D&C 88 discusses the sequence of events leading up to the Second Coming, including the sounding of trumpets by angels, which parallels the trumpet judgments in Revelation.
• The Role of Satan in the Last Days: LDS teachings about the latter days often emphasize the role of Satan and his followers in trying to disrupt God’s plan. The imagery in Revelation 9 of demonic forces tormenting humanity is seen as symbolic of the increasing spiritual warfare that will occur as the world moves closer to Christ’s return.

LDS Authors and Scholars

• Commentaries and Publications: LDS authors and scholars, such as Bruce R. McConkie, have written extensively on the Book of Revelation. In his work “Doctrinal New Testament Commentary”, McConkie interprets the fifth trumpet as representing the unleashing of evil in the last days and emphasizes the need for the faithful to endure.
• Educational Materials: LDS educational materials, such as the “Institute Manual for the New Testament”, also provide interpretations of Revelation, often focusing on the broader themes of spiritual warfare, the triumph of good over evil, and the ultimate victory of Christ.

Conclusion

The LDS interpretation of Revelation 9 and the fifth trumpet is characterized by a focus on the symbolic nature of the events described. The imagery of the locusts, the fallen star, and the torment of humanity is understood as part of the broader narrative of the last days, emphasizing the need for spiritual readiness, adherence to God’s commandments, and the protection that comes from being “sealed” by God. LDS teachings encourage members to see these prophecies as both warnings and promises, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in the face of coming trials.