Topical Bible: Reptiles: Cockatrice or Basilisk

◄ Reptiles: Cockatrice or Basilisk ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The term "cockatrice" is often associated with a mythical creature resembling a serpent or dragon, believed to have the power to kill with its gaze or breath. In the context of the Bible, the cockatrice is mentioned in several passages, primarily in the prophetic and poetic books of the Old Testament. The creature is sometimes equated with the "basilisk," another legendary serpent-like creature known for its deadly attributes.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 11:8 : "The infant will play by the cobra’s den, and the toddler will reach into the viper’s nest." While the Berean Standard Bible uses "viper," other translations have used "cockatrice" to describe the deadly serpent. This passage is part of a prophetic vision of peace and harmony in the Messianic age, where even the most dangerous creatures pose no threat.

2. Isaiah 14:29 : "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 a flying serpent from its egg." Here, the imagery of a serpent is used to convey a message of impending judgment and danger. The "flying serpent" is sometimes interpreted as a cockatrice or basilisk, symbolizing a formidable and destructive force.

3. Isaiah 59:5 : "They hatch viper’s eggs and weave a spider’s web. Whoever eats their eggs will die; crack one open, and a viper is hatched." This verse uses the imagery of serpents to describe the wickedness and deceit of the people. The reference to hatching viper's eggs can be seen as an allusion to the cockatrice, emphasizing the lethal nature of sin and iniquity.

4. Jeremiah 8:17 : "For behold, I will send snakes among you, vipers that cannot be charmed, and they will bite you, declares the LORD." Although the term "cockatrice" is not directly used in this verse, the imagery of venomous serpents aligns with the characteristics attributed to the cockatrice or basilisk.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In biblical literature, the cockatrice or basilisk is often used symbolically to represent evil, danger, and divine judgment. The creature's mythical attributes—such as its deadly gaze or breath—serve to underscore the severity of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The use of such imagery would have resonated with ancient audiences familiar with the legends and fears surrounding these mythical creatures.

The cockatrice is also emblematic of the ultimate triumph of good over evil. In prophetic visions, the transformation of dangerous creatures into harmless beings symbolizes the restoration and peace that will come with the fulfillment of God's promises. This transformation is a powerful reminder of the hope and redemption offered through faith.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The concept of the cockatrice or basilisk likely originated from ancient Near Eastern mythology and folklore, where serpents and dragons were common symbols of chaos and destruction. These creatures were often depicted in art and literature as formidable adversaries, embodying the forces of evil that must be overcome.

In the medieval period, the cockatrice became a popular subject in bestiaries and allegorical writings, further cementing its reputation as a symbol of sin and moral corruption. The creature's legendary attributes were often used to illustrate moral and spiritual lessons, reinforcing the biblical themes of judgment and redemption.

Overall, the cockatrice or basilisk serves as a vivid metaphor within the biblical narrative, illustrating the destructive power of sin and the hope of divine deliverance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 11:8
And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice' den.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 59:5
They hatch cockatrice' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eats of their eggs dies, and that which is crushed breaks out into a viper.
Torrey's Topical Textbook