The term "adder" in the Bible refers to a venomous serpent, often symbolizing danger, deceit, and 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 significance in biblical symbolism and teaching.

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's venom is likened to the harmful and destructive nature of evil speech and actions.

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. This passage reassures believers of God's power to deliver them from physical and spiritual dangers.

3. 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 symbolizes the removal of enmity and danger. The peaceful coexistence of humans and serpents signifies the restoration of harmony in creation.

4. Proverbs 23:32 : "In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper." This proverb warns against the deceptive allure of wine and strong drink, comparing its eventual harm to the bite of an adder. The adder's bite serves as a metaphor for the unforeseen consequences of indulgence and sin.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In biblical literature, the adder is often associated with cunning and malice. Its venomous nature makes it a fitting symbol for the destructive power of sin and the deceitfulness of the wicked. The adder's stealth and sudden strike are emblematic of the unexpected and insidious nature of temptation and evil.

The adder also serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face. Just as one must be vigilant against the physical threat of a serpent, Christians are called to be watchful and discerning in their spiritual lives, relying on God's strength to resist the devil's schemes.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, serpents were both feared and revered. They were often associated with chaos and danger but also with healing and protection in certain cultures. The biblical portrayal of the adder reflects this duality, emphasizing its role as a symbol of evil while also acknowledging God's power to protect and deliver His people from harm.

The adder's presence in Scripture underscores the reality of spiritual danger and the need for divine intervention. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the hope of redemption through faith in God.Genesis 49:17
Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that bites the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward.
Nave's Topical Index

Psalm 91:13
You shall tread on the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shall you trample under feet.
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Psalm 58:4
Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stops her ear;
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Psalm 140:3
They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adders' poison is under their lips. Selah.
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Proverbs 23:32
At the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like an adder.
Nave's Topical Index

2191. echidna -- a viper
... a serpent, snake, viper Definition: a serpent, snake, viper ... 2191 ("viper") then suggests
the venomous desire to ... Origin from echis (a viper, adder) Definition a ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2191.htm - 6k6620. pethen -- (a venomous serpent) perhaps cobra
... Word Origin from an unused word Definition (a venomous serpent) perhaps
cobra NASB Word Usage cobra (3), cobras (3). adder. From ...
/hebrew/6620.htm - 6k

Against Jovinianus.
... where they hide, and will separate the venomous head from ... This is the hissing of
the old serpent; by counsel ... by his runaway steed, bitten by an adder and fell ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against jovinianus.htm

Adder: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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