The serpent is a significant figure in biblical theology, representing both a literal creature and a symbol of evil and deception. Its fate is intricately tied to the narrative of sin, judgment, and redemption throughout Scripture.

Genesis and the Curse

The serpent first appears in Genesis 3, where it is described as "more cunning than any beast of the field that the LORD God had made" (Genesis 3:1). It tempts Eve to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, leading to the fall of humanity. As a result, God pronounces a curse upon the serpent: "Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and every beast of the field! On your belly you will go, and dust you will eat all the days of your life" (Genesis 3:14). This curse signifies a demotion and humiliation, marking the serpent as a perpetual symbol of defeat and subjugation.

Protoevangelium

Genesis 3:15 contains the first messianic prophecy, often referred to as the Protoevangelium: "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" . This verse foretells the ultimate defeat of the serpent by the offspring of the woman, interpreted by Christians as a prophecy of Jesus Christ's victory over Satan. The imagery of crushing the serpent's head signifies a decisive and fatal blow, while the striking of the heel suggests a temporary wound.

Symbolism in the Old Testament

Throughout the Old Testament, the serpent continues to symbolize evil and opposition to God. In Numbers 21:6-9, fiery serpents are sent as a judgment upon the Israelites, but God provides a means of salvation through a bronze serpent lifted on a pole, prefiguring Christ's crucifixion (John 3:14-15). The serpent's role as an agent of judgment and a symbol of sin is evident, yet it also points to God's provision for redemption.

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the serpent is explicitly identified with Satan. Revelation 12:9 describes him as "the great dragon...that ancient serpent called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world" . This identification underscores the serpent's role as the adversary of God and His people. Revelation 20:2-3, 10 further reveals the serpent's ultimate fate: "He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years...And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever" . This passage depicts the final judgment and eternal punishment of the serpent, affirming the complete and irreversible triumph of God over evil.

Theological Implications

The fate of the serpent is central to the biblical narrative of redemption. It highlights the consequences of sin, the certainty of divine judgment, and the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ. The serpent's defeat is not only a future event but also a present reality for believers, who are called to resist the devil and stand firm in their faith (James 4:7, 1 Peter 5:8-9). The promise of the serpent's ultimate destruction assures Christians of the final victory of God's kingdom and the restoration of creation.