Adder
Summary
A general term used in Scripture for various venomous serpents, employed in metaphors for wickedness, danger, and the effects of sin.
☩Hebrew Terms
Four different Hebrew words are translated 'adder' in English Bibles, each indicating a poisonous serpent but none precisely identifiable with modern species. The pethen appears to be a cobra-like snake; the tziphoni is associated with deadly venom; the shephiphon lurks in paths to bite horses' heels; and the akshub is simply described as having poison under its lips. In each case the context emphasizes the snake's deadliness rather than its exact species.
☩Symbolic Usage
Scripture uses these serpents symbolically in various ways. The wicked are compared to the deaf adder that refuses to hear the voice of charmers, illustrating willful rejection of truth. Jacob compared the tribe of Dan to a serpent by the roadside that bites horses' heels—possibly prophesying of the tribe's future spiritual danger or hostile tactics. Wine is said to 'bite like a serpent and sting like an adder,' warning of its dangerous effects.
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Adder," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Adder," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.George Morrish, "Adder," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).