Locusts are large insects that are also known as grasshoppers. The Bible says John the Baptist had a diet that consisted of locusts and wild honey (Mark 1:6). The wild honey doesn’t sound so bad, but did he really eat grasshoppers? Locusts were among the foods that were allowed to be eaten under the Law (Leviticus 11:22), so if it wasn’t grasshoppers he was munching on, then what else could it possibly have been?
Could It Have Been A Locust Tree?
Some people believe the Greek word (akris) that is translated to locusts was referring to the seed pods of the carob tree. While this is a slight possibility, most scholars are fairly certain the Scriptures are referring to a type a grasshopper for John’s diet. Locusts are mentioned numerous other times in the Bible as well, with each time being clear it is talking about an insect, not the seed pods of a locust tree.
Maybe Manna?
It has also been noted that the Greek word for locusts (akris) and the Greek word for honey cake (enkris), which was used for manna eaten in the Old Testament by the Israelites, are very similar. Again, a small possibility, but not likely.
It Was Most Likely Grasshoppers
While eating grasshoppers doesn’t come across as being the most appetizing food for a lot of people, it is most likely what John was consuming along with the wild honey. Locusts have been eaten all throughout history. Even today they are eaten in African, Middle Eastern, and Asian countries. Believe it or not, many consider these insects to be a delicacy. You can find recipes for them that includes fried, smoked, and dried. It is probably safe to say it’s a different way to get your protein than most of us are used to.
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