Flies might seem like a minor nuisance, but they show up in biblical symbolism with significant meaning. The Bible references flies to illustrate decay, disorder, and even judgment, reminding us of how even small things can carry larger messages.
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What Does The Bible Say About Flies
Exodus 8:21
“If you do not let my people go, I will send swarms of flies on you and your officials, on your people and into your houses. The houses of the Egyptians will be full of flies; even the ground will be covered with them.”
This verse depicts one of the plagues that God sent upon the Egyptians as a consequence of Pharaoh’s refusal to release the Israelites from slavery. The swarms of flies were a physical manifestation of God’s power and a demonstration of His authority over nature. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of heeding God’s commands.
Ecclesiastes 10:1
“As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.”
In this verse, the dead flies symbolize foolishness or wrongdoing that can ruin the reputation and impact the integrity of a person. It conveys the idea that even a small act of folly can overshadow the wisdom and honor one possesses. It serves as a cautionary reminder to be mindful of our actions and their potential consequences, as they can have a significant impact on our character and how we are perceived by others.
Isaiah 7:18
“In that day the Lord will whistle for flies from the Nile delta in Egypt and for bees from the land of Assyria.”
This verse describes a future judgment and punishment inflicted by God upon His people for their disobedience. The imagery of God whistling for flies and bees emphasizes the severity of the impending destruction. It showcases God’s ability to mobilize even the smallest creatures to execute His plans, highlighting His sovereignty and power over all creation.
Psalms 78:45
“He sent swarms of flies that devoured them, and frogs that devastated them.”
This verse recounts the plagues that God sent upon the Egyptians during the time of Moses. The swarms of flies were part of God’s divine judgment and served as a means to disrupt and oppress the Egyptians. It demonstrates God’s control over nature and His ability to use even insects to accomplish His purposes.
James 5:14
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.”
This verse encourages believers to seek spiritual support and guidance when they are ill. The act of anointing with oil symbolizes a consecration and prayerful invocation of God’s healing power. It highlights the importance of community and the role of the Church in providing care and support to those in need.
Exodus 8:24
“And the Lord did this. Dense swarms of flies poured into Pharaoh’s palace and into the houses of his officials; throughout Egypt, the land was ruined by the flies.”
Continuing with the plague of flies in Egypt, this verse offers a vivid description of the severity of the infestation and its far-reaching impact. It showcases God’s ability to bring about widespread consequences for those who oppose Him. It also serves as a testimony to God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His commitment to deliver His people.
Proverbs 26:1
“Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honor is not fitting for a fool.”
This verse employs the analogy of flies in unusual weather conditions to illustrate the incompatibility of honor with a foolish person. Just as snow in summer and rain during harvest disrupt the expected and appropriate order, honor bestowed upon a fool is incongruous. It emphasizes the importance of discernment and wisdom when it comes to bestowing honor and recognition.
Isaiah 51:6
“Lift up your eyes to the heavens, look at the earth beneath; the heavens will vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment, and its inhabitants die like flies. But my salvation will last forever, my righteousness will never fail.”
This verse contrasts the temporary nature of earthly existence with the eternal and unchanging nature of God’s salvation. It draws a parallel between the brevity of life and the ephemeral existence of flies. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of our earthly journey and the significance of prioritizing our relationship with God, who alone offers everlasting salvation.
Proverbs 14:4
“Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest.”
This verse uses the analogy of flies around an empty manger to emphasize the importance of perseverance and hard work. Just as an empty manger would not attract flies, a lack of effort and industry does not yield results. It highlights the value of diligence and the potential for fruitful outcomes when combined with determination and perseverance.
Ecclesiastes 10:12-13
“Words from the mouth of the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips. At the beginning, their words are folly, at the end, they are wicked madness.”
This verse warns against the destructive power of foolish and unwise words. It compares the words of the wise to sweet honey that attracts flies. It serves as a reminder to guard our speech and to choose our words carefully, as they have the potential to bring either life or destruction.
Isaiah 7:19
“They will all come and settle in the steep ravines and in the crevices in the rocks, on all the thornbushes and at all the water holes.”
This verse describes the aftermath of the swarms of flies sent by God as a consequence of disobedience. It depicts the widespread and invasive nature of the flies, as they occupied every available place, including difficult terrains and vital water sources. It highlights the relentless and pervasive consequences of rebellion against God.
Proverbs 6:6-8
“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
In this verse, the ants are contrasted with flies to emphasize the importance of diligence, self-discipline, and wise planning. It demonstrates that, unlike flies, ants exhibit industriousness and foresight by storing provisions during favorable times. It serves as a reminder of the value of hard work, responsibility, and preparedness.
Matthew 23:24
“You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.”
This verse uses the metaphor of flies and camels to rebuke the Pharisees and their misguided emphasis on insignificant matters while neglecting important matters of justice and compassion. It underscores the need for discernment and prioritization, reminding us to focus on the weightier matters of faith rather than getting caught up in trivialities.
Ecclesiastes 10:11
“If a snake bites before it is charmed, the charmer receives no fee.”
This verse illustrates the importance of timing and preparedness by comparing a snake bite to an uncharmed charmer. It highlights the significance of taking action at the right moment and being adequately equipped for the task at hand. It serves as a reminder of the importance of timeliness and readiness in fulfilling our responsibilities and pursuing God’s purposes.
Isaiah 11:8
“The infant will play near the cobra’s den, and the young child will put its hand into the viper’s nest.”
This verse speaks of a future time of peace and restoration, where even dangerous creatures will pose no harm to the innocent. It depicts a world free from fear and danger, where the natural order is restored and harmony prevails. It serves as a vision of hope and a reminder of God’s ultimate plan for the redemption and restoration of creation.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”
In this verse, wine and beer are metaphorically likened to flies that lead people astray. It warns against the allure and deceptive nature of indulgence and excessive consumption, which can cloud judgment and lead to unwise decisions. It emphasizes the importance of self-control and moderation in navigating the temptations of life.
Exodus 8:31
“And the Lord did this. Dense swarms of flies poured into Pharaoh’s palace and consumed it; the houses of the Egyptians also were ruined by the flies.”
This verse emphasizes the destructive nature of the flies that invaded Egypt as a sign of God’s judgment. It demonstrates God’s power to bring about ruin and devastation as a consequence of disobedience. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God’s will and the futility of resisting His authority.
Job 5:7
“Yet man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward.”
This verse acknowledges the reality of human suffering and challenges. It uses the analogy of sparks flying upward to convey the inevitability of trouble in the human experience. It serves as a reminder that amidst trials and adversity, we can find solace and hope in God’s presence and faithfulness.
Proverbs 17:12
“Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool bent on folly.”
This verse employs the comparison of a bear deprived of her cubs to a fool pursuing foolishness. It underscores the dangers and potential harm associated with interacting with someone who is determined to engage in unwise actions. It serves as a warning to exercise caution and discernment in our associations and decision-making processes.
Isaiah 59:5
“They hatch the eggs of vipers and spin a spider’s web. Whoever eats their eggs will die; when one is broken, an adder is hatched.”
This verse utilizes a metaphorical depiction of deceit and wickedness, likening it to hatching viper eggs and spinning a spider’s web. It warns against the allure and danger of engaging in or being entangled by deceitful practices. It serves as a reminder to prioritize honesty, integrity, and righteousness in all our endeavors.
Judges 14:8
“Some time later, when he went back to marry her, he turned aside to look at the lion’s carcass, and in it, he saw a swarm of bees and some honey.”
In this verse, the lion’s carcass provides a nesting place for bees and honey. It highlights the paradoxical nature of finding sweetness, or a desirable outcome, in unexpected or unlikely circumstances. It serves as a reminder that God can bring forth blessings and provision even in the midst of challenging and unfavorable situations.
1 Samuel 14:25
“The entire army entered the woods, and there was honey on the ground.”
This verse recounts a story where Jonathan and his men found honey while wandering in the woods. It illustrates the beauty and unexpected blessings that can be found in the most unlikely places. It serves as a reminder of God’s ability to provide for our needs in ways we may least expect, leading us to praise and gratitude.
Exodus 23:28
“I will send the hornet ahead of you to drive the Hivites, Canaanites, and Hittites out of your way.”
In this verse, God promises to guide His people by sending the hornet to displace their enemies. It showcases God’s faithfulness and protective provision for those who trust and follow Him. It serves as a reminder of the power and sovereignty of God in leading us through trials and obstacles on our journey of faith.