The snake, also referred to as a serpent in various translations, is a significant symbol throughout the Bible, representing both physical creatures and spiritual entities. Its presence is noted from the earliest chapters of Genesis to the apocalyptic visions in Revelation.

Genesis and the Fall:
The snake first appears in Genesis 3, where it is described as "more cunning than any beast of the field that the LORD God had made" (Genesis 3:1). It is through the serpent that Satan tempts Eve, leading to the disobedience of Adam and Eve and the subsequent fall of humanity. The serpent's role in the Fall is pivotal, as it introduces sin into the world, resulting in the curse pronounced by God: "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel" (Genesis 3:15). This verse is often interpreted as the protoevangelium, the first hint of the Gospel, foretelling the ultimate victory of Christ over Satan.

Symbol of Deception and Evil:
Throughout Scripture, the snake is frequently associated with deception and evil. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to the Pharisees as a "brood of vipers" (Matthew 12:34), highlighting their deceitful nature. The snake's cunning and subtlety make it a fitting symbol for Satan, who is described as "that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray" (Revelation 12:9).

Numbers and the Bronze Serpent:
In Numbers 21, the Israelites, during their wilderness wanderings, speak against God and Moses, leading to the LORD sending venomous snakes among them. Many Israelites die from snake bites, prompting the people to repent. God instructs Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole, so that anyone bitten can look at it and live (Numbers 21:8-9). This event is later referenced by Jesus in John 3:14-15, drawing a parallel between the lifting up of the bronze serpent and His own crucifixion, symbolizing salvation through faith.

Wisdom and Innocence:
In Matthew 10:16, Jesus advises His disciples to be "as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" . Here, the snake's shrewdness is acknowledged as a positive trait when coupled with innocence, suggesting a balance of wisdom and purity in the life of a believer.

Revelation and Final Judgment:
The Book of Revelation depicts the ultimate defeat of the serpent. In Revelation 20:2, the "dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan" is bound for a thousand years, symbolizing the temporary restraint of evil. The final judgment culminates in the serpent's eternal defeat, as Satan is cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10).

Conclusion:
The snake in the Bible serves as a complex symbol, representing both the physical creature and the spiritual adversary. Its appearances throughout Scripture underscore themes of temptation, sin, judgment, and redemption, ultimately pointing to the triumph of good over evil through Jesus Christ.