In biblical times, the concept of highways was often associated with travel, trade, and communication between cities and regions. These roads, while essential for the movement of people and goods, were not without their dangers. Among the various threats faced by travelers were wild animals, including serpents. The presence of serpents on highways serves as a metaphor for spiritual and physical dangers encountered on life's journey.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 35:8-9 : "And there will be a highway called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not travel it, only those who walk in that Way—and fools will not stray onto it. No lion will be there, and no vicious beast will go up on it; such will not be found there. But the redeemed will walk there." This passage highlights the divine protection promised to those who walk in righteousness. While it does not explicitly mention serpents, the absence of "vicious beasts" on the highway of holiness implies a safe passage, free from the dangers that might otherwise be present, including serpents.

2. Numbers 21:6-9 : "So the LORD sent venomous snakes among the people, and many of the Israelites were bitten and died. Then the people came to Moses and said, 'We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you. Intercede with the LORD to take the snakes away from us.' So Moses interceded for the people. Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Make a snake and mount it on a pole. When anyone who is bitten looks at it, he will live.'" This account, while not directly related to highways, illustrates the peril posed by serpents and the divine provision for deliverance. The bronze serpent lifted by Moses became a symbol of salvation, prefiguring Christ's redemptive work.

3. Proverbs 23:32 : "In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper." Although this verse metaphorically describes the consequences of indulging in wine, it reflects the broader biblical theme of serpents as symbols of danger and deceit, which could be encountered on the physical and spiritual highways of life.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In Scripture, serpents often symbolize sin, temptation, and the presence of evil. The serpent in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3) is the quintessential representation of Satan, who leads humanity astray. On the highways of life, serpents can be seen as the various temptations and trials that believers must navigate with vigilance and faith.

The imagery of highways infested with serpents serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that Christians face. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Just as travelers in ancient times needed to be wary of physical dangers, believers today must be spiritually alert to the snares of the enemy.

Practical Application:

For the Christian, the journey of faith is akin to traveling a highway fraught with potential perils. The presence of serpents on this path underscores the need for spiritual discernment and reliance on God's protection. Psalm 91:13 offers assurance: "You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent." This promise encourages believers to trust in God's power to overcome the adversities they encounter.

In navigating the highways of life, Christians are called to walk in the light of God's Word, which serves as a lamp to their feet and a light to their path (Psalm 119:105). By adhering to the teachings of Scripture and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, believers can safely traverse the roads of life, avoiding the pitfalls symbolized by serpents.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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... do not exceed some thirty feet in height, while many of them may be regarded as
nothing more imposing than large bushes.* Muddy rivers, infested with crocodiles ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm

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