Joe 2:5-7 | JFB | STEP | 5. Like the noise of chariots —referring to the loud sound caused by their wings in motion, or else the movement of their hind legs. on the tops of mountains —MAURER connects this with "they," that is, the locusts, which first occupy the higher places, and thence descend to the lower places. It may refer (as in English Version ) to "chariots," which make most noise in crossing over rugged heights.

Joel 2:5-7

5. Like the noise of chariots—referring to the loud sound caused by their wings in motion, or else the movement of their hind legs.

on the tops of mountains—MAURER connects this with "they," that is, the locusts, which first occupy the higher places, and thence descend to the lower places. It may refer (as in English Version) to "chariots," which make most noise in crossing over rugged heights.

6. much pained—namely, with terror. The Arab proverb is, "More terrible than the locusts."

faces shall gather blackness— (Isa 13:8; Jer 30:6; Na 2:10). MAURER translates, "withdraw their brightness," that is, wax pale, lose color (compare Joe 2:10; Joe 3:15).

7-9. Depicting the regular military order of their advance, "One locust not turning a nail's breadth out of his own place in the march" [JEROME]. Compare Pr 30:27, "The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands."