Revelation 9:7; Horses Prepared for Battle

Revelation 9:7 And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men. 

Walvoord rightly observed, “The creatures are like locusts, not men, and no events of history can match the details of this visitation.”

Indeed, in their strength and irresistible onslaught they are likened to horses ready for war. [Feinberg]

These armoured horse like locusts, like ancient war machines, were trained to charge at their enemies fearlessly and courageously, ensuring victory.

Their faces were as the faces of men suggests that the creatures have the intelligence and capacity of human beings, not just that of insects. [Lenski, Swete]

There are altogether 9 comparative descriptions (3 in verse 7 and 6 others in verses 8-10) to help readers picture the immense effect of these creatures from the bottomless pit.

(1) Like horses

(2) Heads were crowns like gold

(3) Faces like the faces of men

MacArthur observed well, “That five months period will be one of intense spiritual and physical suffering inflicted on unbelievers by the judgment of God through this demon horde. The fearful judgment is likened to the torment inflicted by a scorpion when it stings a man.”

Lockyer said interestingly, “Like war horses, the locust army stands arrayed and ready to carry out the commands of their king. Hostile armies, especially cavalry, are symbolized by a locust invasion in Jeremiah 51:27 and Joel 2. In Italy, locusts are called “little horses” because of the resemblance of their heads to those of horses. “The appearance of them is as the appearance of horses; and as horsemen, so shall they run” (Joel 2:4) These locusts wear “crowns like gold”. The characteristic phrase “as it were” suggests a make-believe sovereignty. Crowns represent victory and dominion, while gold denotes deity… A divinely conferred crown of gold rest upon the head of Christ (Revelation 14:14).”

Mark 1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

Amen.