Topical Encyclopedia The term "dart-snake" does not appear explicitly in the Berean Standard Bible or in most traditional biblical translations. However, the concept of serpents and their symbolic meanings are prevalent throughout the Scriptures. In biblical literature, snakes often represent danger, deceit, and evil, most notably in the account of the Fall in Genesis.Biblical References and Symbolism 1. Genesis 3:1-5 : The serpent is introduced as a cunning creature that tempts Eve in the Garden of Eden. "Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field that the LORD God had made." This passage sets the stage for the serpent's association with Satan and sin, as it deceives Eve into eating the forbidden fruit. 2. Numbers 21:6-9 : The Israelites encounter fiery serpents in the wilderness as a consequence of their rebellion against God. "Then the LORD sent venomous snakes among the people, and many of the Israelites were bitten and died." Here, the serpent is a tool of divine judgment, but also of salvation, as Moses is instructed to make a bronze serpent for the people to look upon and be healed. 3. Isaiah 14:29 : The prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of a serpent to describe the coming judgment upon Philistia. "Do not rejoice, all you Philistines, that the rod that struck you is broken, for a viper will spring from the root of a snake, and its fruit will be a darting, venomous serpent." This passage may be where the concept of a "dart-snake" is derived, symbolizing a swift and deadly threat. 4. Matthew 10:16 : Jesus instructs His disciples to be "as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Here, the serpent's cunning is acknowledged, but it is paired with innocence, suggesting a balance of wisdom and purity in the life of a believer. Theological Implications In the biblical narrative, serpents often embody the presence of evil and the need for vigilance against spiritual deception. The serpent's role in the Garden of Eden introduces the theme of sin and the need for redemption, which is a central tenet of Christian theology. The bronze serpent in Numbers serves as a foreshadowing of Christ's crucifixion, as Jesus Himself references this event in John 3:14-15 : "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life." Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, serpents were often associated with fertility, protection, and healing, as well as chaos and danger. This duality is reflected in the biblical text, where serpents can be both a source of peril and a means of deliverance. The imagery of a "dart-snake" or a swift, venomous serpent would resonate with ancient audiences familiar with the natural world and its threats. Conclusion While the specific term "dart-snake" is not found in the Bible, the symbolism of serpents is rich and multifaceted, serving as a powerful metaphor for both the presence of evil and the hope of salvation through faith in God's provision. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia DART-SNAKEdart'-snake (Isaiah 34:15). See ARROWSNAKE. Thesaurus DartsnakeDartsnake. Darts, Dartsnake. Dart-snake . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia DART-SNAKE. ... See ARROWSNAKE. Darts, Dartsnake. Dart-snake . Reference Bible. /d/dartsnake.htm - 6k Dart-snake (1 Occurrence) Serpent (40 Occurrences) Dash (30 Occurrences) Darts (5 Occurrences) Porcupine (3 Occurrences) Arrowsnake (1 Occurrence) Satyr Brood (19 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about snake handling? Should we be handling snakes in church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about snakes? Are snakes evil? | GotQuestions.org Why didn't Adam and Eve find it strange that a serpent was talking to them? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Dart-snake (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 34:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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