Joel 2:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Like warriors, they will surge forward, and like courageous men, they will scale the barriers. They will charge ahead, emulating the most valiant fighters, conquering apathy and dread, and will ascend the walls as though launching a grand offensive. Every individual will follow his own path without straying, and each person will remain steadfast with his companion. The locusts do not have a leader, yet they advance in unison at the command of one, moving in organized lines and soaring together as if choreographed, never lagging behind but progressing in harmony like sisters, for nature has instilled in them a sense of kinship.

The fearful will not be misled in their actions, unlike the timid. The prophet illustrates the might and audacity of the Assyrians, highlighting that those who are afraid often abandon their course. The statement regarding their entry “with windows like a tatie” refers either to the intentions of the foe that had not yet been realized or to their actual approach when they seized fortified cities that lacked direct access.

We can comprehend this in a manner similar to the previous discussion, applying it to both adversaries and locusts. It becomes evident that the locusts, akin to foes, ascend the walls, and regardless of their movement, nothing can scatter them. With a sense of unity, they march forth. Those burdened with their armaments shall advance, and while they may fall amidst their arrows, they will not perish. The locusts are equipped with natural armaments—teeth, wings, and serrated appendages—while the enemies wield tools crafted by human ingenuity. Yet, as the Prophet states, both will have their instruments on hand at all times; for those engaged in intense conflict are accustomed to resting and eating while still grasping their weapons, ever vigilant for the approach of adversaries.