Flies(fly, swarm)
“Swarm / fly”
Summary
Various flying insects that plagued Egypt, tormented both man and beast, and serve as symbols of divine judgment and invading armies.
☩The Plague of Flies
The plague of flies (Hebrew: arob) was the fourth plague upon Egypt (Exodus 8:20-31). These swarms tormented both man and beast throughout the land, yet Goshen where the Israelites dwelt was spared. The Egyptians paid superstitious worship to various flies and insects, making this judgment particularly pointed—they were punished by the very things they revered. Psalm 78:45 and 105:31 recall this devastating plague.
☩The Torment of Flies
Flies in Egypt and the Middle East are notoriously troublesome. They obstinately fasten upon any part of the body, returning immediately when driven away, wearing out the most patient spirit. They particularly target the corners of the eye and edges of the eyelid, attracted by moisture. The 'zimb' fly of Abyssinia is so devastating that entire populations must migrate during the rainy season to escape it. Elephants and rhinoceroses roll in mud to create armor against it.
☩Prophetic and Proverbial Uses
Isaiah prophesied that the Lord would 'hiss for the fly that is in the uttermost parts of the rivers of Egypt' (Isaiah 7:18), comparing invading armies to countless, destructive swarms. Solomon observed that 'dead flies cause the apothecary's ointment to stink' (Ecclesiastes 10:1), illustrating how a small amount of folly can tarnish a reputation just as a single dead fly spoils precious perfume. This is connected to his assertion that 'one sinner destroyeth much good.'
