Introduction:
Snakes, also referred to as serpents in the Bible, hold significant symbolic and literal roles throughout the Scriptures. They are often associated with deception, sin, and judgment, but also with healing and wisdom. The presence of snakes in biblical narratives serves as a powerful metaphor for the struggle between good and evil.

Old Testament References:

1. The Garden of Eden:
The serpent is first introduced 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). The serpent tempts Eve to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, leading to the fall of man. This event establishes the serpent as a symbol of temptation and sin.

2. Moses and the Bronze Serpent:
In Numbers 21:4-9, the Israelites complain against God and Moses, leading to the LORD sending venomous snakes among them. Many Israelites die from snake bites, prompting the people to repent. God instructs Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole; those who look upon it are healed. This event foreshadows the redemptive power of Christ, as referenced in John 3:14-15.

3. Wisdom and Cunning:
In Proverbs 30:18-19, the way of a serpent on a rock is listed among things too wonderful to understand, highlighting the creature's mysterious and elusive nature. This reflects the duality of snakes as both wise and potentially dangerous.

New Testament References:

1. John the Baptist and the Pharisees:
In Matthew 3:7, John the Baptist calls the Pharisees and Sadducees a "brood of vipers," condemning their hypocrisy and warning them of impending judgment. This metaphor underscores the deceitful and dangerous nature of those who oppose God's truth.

2. Jesus and the Disciples:
Jesus uses the imagery of snakes to convey wisdom and innocence in Matthew 10:16: "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Here, the snake's cunning is seen as a necessary trait for navigating a hostile world.

3. Paul and the Viper:
In Acts 28:3-6, the Apostle Paul is bitten by a viper on the island of Malta. The locals expect him to die, but Paul suffers no harm, demonstrating God's protection and power over evil.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

· Deception and Sin:
The serpent's role in the fall of man cements its association with Satan, who is described as "that ancient serpent" in Revelation 12:9. This connection underscores the snake's symbolic representation of deceit and rebellion against God.

· Judgment and Redemption:
The bronze serpent in the wilderness serves as a symbol of judgment and redemption. It illustrates the concept of looking to God for salvation, a theme central to Christian theology.

· Wisdom and Cunning:
While often viewed negatively, the snake's cunning is also portrayed as a positive attribute in certain contexts, emphasizing the need for discernment and strategic thinking in the life of a believer.

Conclusion:
The biblical portrayal of snakes is multifaceted, encompassing themes of sin, judgment, redemption, and wisdom. These creatures serve as powerful symbols within the biblical narrative, reflecting the complex relationship between humanity and the divine.