Topical Bible: The Wicked are Compared to Deaf Adders

Bible > Topical > The Wicked are Compared to Deaf Adders

◄ The Wicked are Compared to Deaf Adders ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the Scriptures, the imagery of the wicked being compared to deaf adders is a vivid metaphor that illustrates the stubbornness and willful disobedience of those who reject God's truth. This comparison is primarily found in Psalm 58, a psalm attributed to David, which addresses the corruption and injustice of the wicked.

Biblical Reference:

Psalm 58:3-5 states:
"The wicked are estranged from the womb; the liars go astray from birth. Their venom is like the venom of a snake, like a cobra that shuts its ears, refusing to hear the tune of the charmer who skillfully weaves his spell."

Analysis:

1. Estrangement from Birth: The passage begins by emphasizing the inherent nature of wickedness, suggesting that the wicked are estranged from God from birth. This estrangement is not merely a result of external influences but is depicted as an innate condition. The imagery of being "estranged from the womb" underscores the depth of their rebellion against God.

2. Venom of a Snake: The wicked are likened to snakes, creatures often associated with danger and deceit. The venom symbolizes the harmful and destructive nature of their actions and words. Just as snake venom can cause physical harm, the deceit and malice of the wicked can lead to spiritual and moral corruption.

3. Deaf Adders: The metaphor of the "cobra that shuts its ears" highlights the deliberate refusal of the wicked to heed wisdom and truth. In ancient times, snake charmers were believed to have the ability to control snakes through music and incantations. However, the deaf adder, by shutting its ears, represents those who are impervious to guidance and correction. This stubbornness is a hallmark of the wicked, who choose to ignore the voice of God and the call to righteousness.

4. Refusal to Hear: The refusal to hear the "tune of the charmer" signifies a conscious decision to reject divine instruction and moral accountability. The charmer, in this context, can be seen as a representation of God's messengers or the Holy Spirit, who seeks to lead individuals away from sin and towards righteousness. The wicked, however, resist this call, preferring to remain in their sinful ways.

Theological Implications:

The comparison of the wicked to deaf adders serves as a warning about the dangers of hardening one's heart against God. It illustrates the peril of spiritual deafness, where individuals become so entrenched in their sin that they are unable or unwilling to respond to God's call. This metaphor also underscores the justice of God, who will ultimately hold the wicked accountable for their refusal to repent and turn from their evil ways.

In the broader biblical narrative, this imagery aligns with the consistent theme of the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance. The deaf adder serves as a cautionary symbol, reminding believers of the need to remain open to God's voice and to seek His guidance in all aspects of life.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 58:4
Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stops her ear;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Answer to the Objection of the Heathen, that it was not Right to ...
... esteem; while, on the other hand, the wicked shall receive ... With justice, then, have
you been compared to those ... is like the serpent, like the deaf adder, which ...
/.../clement/exhortation to the heathen/chapter x answer to the objection.htm

Preface.
... God certainly can punish as long as wicked men exist. ... To Pleasure never was
Lorenzo deaf; ... Kind is fell Lucifer, compared to thee: 874. Oh! ...
//christianbookshelf.org/young/youngs night thoughts/preface.htm