Topical Encyclopedia The term "adder" in the Bible typically refers to a venomous snake, often symbolizing danger, deceit, or evil. The Hebrew word often translated as "adder" is "פֶּתֶן" (pethen), which is sometimes rendered as "asp" or "viper" in various translations. The adder is mentioned in several passages, illustrating its symbolic significance in biblical literature.Biblical References: 1. Psalm 58:4 : "Their venom is like the poison of a serpent, like a deaf cobra that shuts its ears." This verse uses the imagery of a serpent to describe the wickedness and deceitfulness of the unrighteous. The adder, or cobra, is depicted as a creature that is both dangerous and unresponsive to charm, symbolizing the stubbornness and malice of those who oppose God's ways. 2. Psalm 91:13 : "You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent." Here, the adder represents a threat that the faithful will overcome through divine protection. The verse reassures believers of God's power to deliver them from harm, including the dangers posed by venomous creatures. 3. Proverbs 23:32 : "In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper." This passage warns against the seductive allure of wine and strong drink, likening their eventual harm to the bite of a snake. The adder's bite serves as a metaphor for the destructive consequences of indulgence and sin. 4. Isaiah 11:8 : "The infant will play by the cobra’s den, and the toddler will reach into the viper’s nest." In this prophetic vision of the Messianic age, the adder is used to illustrate the peace and harmony that will prevail. The imagery suggests a time when natural enmities and dangers will be reconciled under the reign of the Messiah. Symbolism and Interpretation: In biblical symbolism, the adder often represents sin, temptation, and the presence of evil. Its venomous nature is a fitting metaphor for the insidious and destructive power of sin. The adder's ability to strike unexpectedly and with deadly force underscores the need for vigilance and reliance on God's protection. The adder's presence in Scripture also serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face. Just as one must be cautious of a snake's bite, Christians are called to be aware of the spiritual dangers that threaten their faith and to seek refuge in God's promises. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, snakes were both feared and revered. They were often associated with fertility and healing, as well as danger and death. The adder, in particular, was known for its stealth and lethal bite, making it a potent symbol in biblical texts. The biblical portrayal of the adder reflects the broader cultural understanding of snakes as creatures to be respected and avoided. This understanding is woven into the fabric of biblical teaching, where the adder's characteristics are used to convey moral and spiritual lessons. Conclusion: The adder's role in the Bible is multifaceted, serving as a symbol of both physical and spiritual peril. Its presence in Scripture calls believers to a heightened awareness of the dangers of sin and the need for God's protection and guidance. Library Enduring to the End The Evangel Booklets A Faithful Friend A Faithful Friend Letter xxii . The First from Flavian, Bp. Of Constantinople to ... July the Second Light and Lightning The Tongue. Further Proofs of the Same Proposition, Drawn from the Promises ... The Third Exile, 356-362. The Barley Field on Fire Thesaurus Adder's (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Adder's (2 Occurrences). Psalms 140:3 They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adder's poison is under their lips. Selah. ... /a/adder's.htm - 6k Basilisk's (1 Occurrence) Basilisk (3 Occurrences) Adders (4 Occurrences) Addest (2 Occurrences) Serpent (40 Occurrences) Zoology Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Adder's (2 Occurrences)Psalms 140:3 Isaiah 11:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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