Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Description:The term "asp" in the Bible generally refers to a venomous snake, often associated with danger and death. The word "asp" is derived from the Hebrew word "pethen" and the Greek word "aspis," both of which denote a poisonous serpent. In ancient times, the asp was feared for its deadly bite, and it is often used symbolically in Scripture to represent evil, deceit, and the destructive power of sin. Biblical References: 1. Deuteronomy 32:33 : "Their wine is the venom of serpents, the deadly poison of cobras." This verse uses the imagery of venomous snakes to describe the corrupt and destructive nature of the enemies of Israel. The asp, as a symbol of deadly poison, underscores the severity of the threat posed by these adversaries. 2. Job 20:14-16 : "Yet his food will sour in his stomach; it will become the venom of cobras within him. He will vomit the wealth he swallowed; God will force it from his stomach. He will suck the poison of cobras; the fangs of a viper will kill him." Here, the asp is used metaphorically to illustrate the consequences of wickedness and greed. The imagery of consuming the venom of cobras highlights the self-destructive nature of sin. 3. Psalm 58:4 : "Their venom is like the poison of a serpent, like a cobra that shuts its ears." In this psalm, the wicked are compared to asps, emphasizing their malicious intent and refusal to heed wisdom or correction. The asp's deafness symbolizes the obstinacy and rebellion of those who reject God's truth. 4. Isaiah 11:8 : "The infant will play by the cobra’s den, and the toddler will reach into the viper’s nest." This prophetic vision of the Messianic age portrays a time of peace and harmony, where even the most dangerous creatures pose no threat. The asp, representing danger, is rendered harmless in the presence of God's kingdom. 5. Romans 3:13 : "Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit. The venom of vipers is on their lips." The apostle Paul, quoting from the Psalms, uses the asp to illustrate the sinful nature of humanity. The venomous speech of the wicked is likened to the deadly poison of asps, highlighting the destructive power of words. Symbolism and Interpretation: In biblical literature, the asp serves as a powerful symbol of sin, deceit, and the consequences of turning away from God. Its venomous nature is often used to illustrate the insidious and lethal effects of evil. The asp's presence in prophetic and poetic passages underscores the need for divine intervention and redemption. The imagery of the asp also points to the hope of transformation and restoration. In Isaiah's vision, the asp's harmlessness in the Messianic age signifies the ultimate triumph of God's peace and righteousness over the forces of evil. This transformation is a testament to the power of God's kingdom to bring about a new order where danger and death are no more. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, the asp was a well-known and feared creature. Its presence in biblical texts reflects the cultural understanding of snakes as symbols of danger and death. The asp's role in Egyptian mythology, where it was associated with royalty and divine protection, contrasts with its biblical portrayal as a symbol of evil, further emphasizing the distinctiveness of the biblical worldview. The use of the asp in Scripture serves as a reminder of the pervasive nature of sin and the need for vigilance and reliance on God's protection and guidance. Through the lens of biblical teaching, the asp becomes a metaphor for the spiritual battle between good and evil, highlighting the importance of faith and obedience in overcoming the adversary. Greek 785. aspis -- an asp ... asp (hooded-snake, cobra). Word Origin a prim. word Definition an asp NASB Word Usage asps (1). asp. Of uncertain derivation; a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/785.htm - 6k Library Psalm XIV. Moreover Isaiah Himself yet Further Says. ... John i. 24, 25. Of the Baptism of John, that of Elijah, and that ... Petilianus Said: "David Also Spoke of You as Persecutors in the ... Psalm LVIII. From the Saying of Our Lord we Know that the Flesh is Weak... Introduction. Origin of the Treatise. Renewed Cautions. Injustice Shown Towards the Christians. The Words of Our Lips. Thesaurus Asps (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Asps (4 Occurrences). ... Deuteronomy 32:33 Their wine is the poison of serpents, The cruel venom of asps. (WEB KJV JPS ASV WBS YLT RSV). ... /a/asps.htm - 7k Gall (17 Occurrences) Poison (17 Occurrences) Serpent (40 Occurrences) Venom (8 Occurrences) Deceiving (18 Occurrences) Dragons (17 Occurrences) Deadly (31 Occurrences) Deceive (48 Occurrences) Cruelty (8 Occurrences) Resources How should Christians view the “defund the police” movement? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Asps (4 Occurrences)Romans 3:13 Deuteronomy 32:33 Job 20:14 Job 20:16 Subtopics Related Terms |
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