Topical Encyclopedia The term "dartsnake" does not appear explicitly in the Bible; however, the concept of serpents and their symbolic meanings are prevalent throughout the Scriptures. In biblical literature, serpents often represent deceit, danger, and evil, beginning with the serpent in the Garden of Eden.Biblical Symbolism of Serpents 1. Genesis 3:1-5: The serpent is introduced as a cunning creature that tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. This act of deception leads to the fall of man. The serpent's role here is pivotal, symbolizing Satan's craftiness and the introduction of sin into the world. The Berean Standard Bible states, "Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field that the LORD God had made." 2. Numbers 21:6-9: In the wilderness, the Israelites faced fiery serpents as a consequence of their rebellion against God. The LORD sent these serpents among the people, and many Israelites died. However, God also provided a means of salvation through the bronze serpent, which Moses lifted up on a pole. Those who looked upon it were healed. This event foreshadows Christ's crucifixion, as noted in John 3:14-15. 3. Revelation 12:9: The serpent is identified with Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. The BSB describes, "And the great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world." Serpents in Wisdom Literature In the wisdom literature, serpents are often used metaphorically to describe the characteristics of wickedness and danger. Proverbs 23:32 warns of the dangers of excessive drinking, likening it to a serpent's bite: "In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper." Serpents in the New Testament 1. Matthew 10:16: Jesus instructs His disciples to be "as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Here, the serpent's shrewdness is seen as a positive trait when combined with innocence, suggesting a balance of wisdom and purity in the life of a believer. 2. Mark 16:18: In the context of the Great Commission, Jesus mentions that believers "will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all." This passage is often interpreted as a promise of divine protection for those who are faithfully serving God. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, serpents were often associated with both danger and healing. The dual nature of serpents as both harmful and beneficial is reflected in the biblical narrative, where they are used as instruments of God's judgment and as symbols of His provision and salvation. Theological Implications The imagery of the serpent in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare and the need for vigilance against deception. It also highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to use even the most unlikely symbols to convey profound truths about sin, redemption, and the ultimate victory over evil through Jesus Christ. 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) Darts (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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