Topical Bible: Serpents were often Enchanted or Fascinated

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In the biblical context, serpents hold a significant place, often symbolizing cunning, danger, and the presence of evil. However, they are also depicted as creatures that could be enchanted or fascinated, reflecting the ancient Near Eastern understanding of their mysterious and captivating nature.

The practice of enchanting serpents is alluded to in several passages of Scripture. In Psalm 58:4-5 , the psalmist compares the wicked to venomous serpents, stating, "Their venom is like the poison of a serpent, like a cobra that shuts its ears, that does not heed the tune of the charmer who skillfully weaves his spell." This passage suggests that serpents, despite their dangerous nature, could be subdued or controlled through enchantment, a practice known in the ancient world.

The art of serpent charming was a recognized skill in biblical times, often associated with wisdom and secret knowledge. Ecclesiastes 10:11 notes, "If the serpent bites before it is charmed, there is no profit for the charmer." This proverb highlights the necessity of skill and timing in dealing with serpents, implying that the ability to enchant them was both valuable and respected.

In the broader biblical narrative, serpents are frequently associated with deception and temptation, most notably in the account of the Fall in Genesis 3. The serpent in the Garden of Eden is described as "more cunning than any beast of the field" (Genesis 3:1), embodying the qualities of subtlety and beguilement. This portrayal aligns with the notion of serpents being creatures that could both fascinate and deceive.

The imagery of serpents extends into the New Testament, where Jesus instructs His disciples to be "as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16). Here, the serpent's shrewdness is acknowledged as a quality to be emulated in a righteous manner, suggesting a nuanced understanding of the serpent's characteristics.

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the fascination with serpents was not limited to their physical presence but extended to their symbolic representation in art and mythology. Serpents were often depicted in religious iconography and were believed to possess protective and healing powers, as seen in the bronze serpent crafted by Moses in Numbers 21:8-9 , which provided healing to the Israelites when they looked upon it.

The biblical portrayal of serpents as creatures that could be enchanted or fascinated reflects a complex relationship between humanity and the natural world, where the serpent's dual nature as both a threat and a subject of wonder is acknowledged. This duality is woven throughout the biblical text, offering insights into the ancient understanding of serpents and their place within God's creation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ecclesiastes 10:11
Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no better.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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The Pilgrim's Progress
... were delighted in his way: Then let them know, that those related were Unto him ... meet
with troubles night and day; That they have trod on serpents, fought with ...
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