Introduction:
Snakes and vipers hold significant symbolic and literal roles within the biblical narrative. They are often associated with sin, deception, and judgment, yet also serve as instruments of God's will. The imagery of snakes and vipers is woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments, providing rich theological insights and moral lessons.

Old Testament References:

1. Genesis 3:1-15: The serpent is introduced in the Garden of Eden as a cunning creature that tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. This act of deception leads to the fall of man, and the serpent is cursed by God: "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He will crush your head, and you will strike His heel" (Genesis 3:15). This passage is often interpreted as the protoevangelium, the first gospel, foreshadowing Christ's victory over sin and Satan.

2. Exodus 7:8-12: Snakes appear in the narrative of Moses and Aaron before Pharaoh. Aaron's staff becomes a serpent, demonstrating God's power over the Egyptian magicians, whose staffs also become serpents but are swallowed by Aaron's serpent. This event underscores God's supremacy over false gods and magicians.

3. Numbers 21:4-9: The Israelites, grumbling against God and Moses, are punished with fiery serpents. Many are bitten and die, but God provides a means of salvation through a bronze serpent set on a pole. Those who look upon it are healed, prefiguring Christ's crucifixion and the salvation offered through Him.

4. Isaiah 14:29: The prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of a serpent to describe the judgment upon Philistia: "Do not rejoice, O Philistia, all of you, that the rod that struck you is broken. For from the root of the snake will spring up a viper, and its fruit will be a flying serpent" . This passage highlights the continuation of judgment and the emergence of new threats.

New Testament References:

1. Matthew 3:7: John the Baptist calls the Pharisees and Sadducees a "brood of vipers" as they come to his baptism, warning them of the impending wrath and the need for genuine repentance. This metaphor emphasizes their deceitful and dangerous nature, akin to that of vipers.

2. Matthew 23:33: Jesus echoes John the Baptist's condemnation, addressing the scribes and Pharisees: "You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape the sentence of hell?" . This strong rebuke underscores their hypocrisy and the severity of their spiritual condition.

3. Mark 16:18: In the Great Commission, Jesus mentions that believers "will pick up snakes with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not harm them" . This promise of protection signifies the power and authority given to the followers of Christ over physical and spiritual dangers.

4. Acts 28:3-6: Paul, after being shipwrecked on Malta, is bitten by a viper but suffers no harm. The islanders initially believe he is cursed, but after witnessing his survival, they consider him a god. This incident demonstrates God's protection over His servants and serves as a testament to His power.

Symbolism and Themes:

· Deception and Sin: The serpent in Eden represents the introduction of sin into the world through deceit. This theme of deception continues with the Pharisees and religious leaders, who are likened to vipers for their misleading teachings and actions.

· Judgment and Deliverance: Snakes often symbolize God's judgment, as seen with the fiery serpents in the wilderness. However, they also represent deliverance, as the bronze serpent becomes a symbol of healing and salvation.

· Divine Power and Protection: The transformation of staffs into serpents and Paul's encounter with the viper illustrate God's power over creation and His protection of the faithful.

Conclusion:
The biblical portrayal of snakes and vipers is multifaceted, serving as symbols of both danger and divine intervention. Through these creatures, Scripture communicates profound truths about sin, judgment, and redemption, ultimately pointing to the victory of Christ over evil.