Snakes are mentioned throughout the Bible, often symbolizing deception or danger. While the Bible doesn’t specifically address snakes in dreams, it does provide principles for interpreting dreams and seeking God’s wisdom. Let’s explore the biblical symbolism of snakes and how to approach dreams with spiritual discernment.
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What Does The Bible Say About Snakes In Dreams
Genesis 3:1
“Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, ‘Has God indeed said, “You shall not eat of every tree of the garden”?’”
This verse introduces the serpent as a symbol of deception and cunning. It reminds us that the enemy will often use subtle tactics to sow doubt and question God’s word.
Snakes in dreams are often a manifestation of spiritual warfare, associated with the presence of evil and the need for discernment.
Numbers 21:8-9
“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Make a fiery serpent, and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live.’ So Moses made a bronze serpent, and put it on a pole; and so it was, if a serpent had bitten anyone, when he looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.”
In this account, God instructs Moses to make a bronze serpent as a means of healing. It highlights the power of looking to God for deliverance and restoration, even in the midst of danger or affliction.
When encountering snakes in dreams, it is important to remember that God is able to bring healing and protection, if we fix our gaze on Him.
Proverbs 23:32
“At the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like a viper.”
This verse serves as a warning against indulging in the pleasures of excessive drinking. It compares the consequences of overindulgence to the painful and poisonous sting of a serpent.
Snakes in dreams might symbolize the detrimental effects of harmful habits or behaviors, prompting us to reflect on the potential consequences of our actions.
Isaiah 14:29
“Do not rejoice, all you of Philistia, because the rod that struck you is broken; for out of the serpent’s roots will come forth a viper, and its offspring will be a fiery flying serpent.”
This verse warns the people of Philistia against celebrating prematurely, as they will face a more dangerous enemy in the future. The mention of serpents emphasizes the threat and cunning nature of this enemy.
Snakes in dreams can symbolize looming dangers or adversaries, reminding us to stay vigilant and not underestimate the cunning schemes of our enemies.
Matthew 10:16
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”
Jesus instructs his followers to be wise and discerning, like serpents, while maintaining a spirit of gentleness and innocence, like doves. This verse encourages believers to navigate the world with wisdom and discernment, recognizing the potential dangers and deceptions that may arise.
Snakes in dreams may symbolize the need for believers to exercise discernment and wisdom in their interactions and decision-making.
Mark 16:18
“They will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
In this verse, Jesus assures his disciples that through faith in Him, they will have power over snakes and harmful substances. It emphasizes the authority and protection that comes from a strong relationship with Christ.
Snakes in dreams might represent the challenges and threats we face, but this verse reminds us that when we have faith in Jesus, we can overcome and be protected from harm.
Luke 10:19
“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”
Jesus grants his disciples authority over all the power of the enemy, including serpents and scorpions. This verse highlights the supernatural protection and authority believers have when they walk in the power of God.
Snakes in dreams may signify the presence of the enemy, but this verse assures us that as believers, we have the authority to overcome and defeat any spiritual attack.
Acts 28:3-6
“But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand. So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, ‘No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.’ But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.”
This passage describes how Paul survived an encounter with a venomous snake, miraculously remaining unharmed. It displays the supernatural protection and favor that God granted to His servant.
When encountering snakes in dreams, this passage serves as a reminder that God can preserve and protect us from harm, even in the midst of dangerous situations.
Revelation 12:9
“So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.”
This verse reveals the identity of the serpent as the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. It emphasizes the spiritual battle that takes place between the forces of God and the forces of evil.
Snakes in dreams may symbolize the presence of spiritual deception and the need to be alert to the schemes of the enemy.
Revelation 20:2
“He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.”
In this passage, the serpent is again equated with the Devil and Satan. It describes the final defeat and binding of Satan by God, signifying the ultimate victory of God’s kingdom over the forces of darkness.
Snakes in dreams can remind believers that although the enemy may pose a threat, ultimately, the power of God will prevail.
Psalms 58:4-5
“Their poison is like the poison of a serpent; they are like the deaf cobra that stops its ear, which will not heed the voice of charmers, charming ever so skillfully.”
This passage speaks of the wicked, comparing their words and actions to the poison of a serpent. It highlights their refusal to listen to wise counsel and the futility of attempting to reason with them.
Snakes in dreams might symbolize the presence of deceitful and obstinate people or situations, prompting believers to exercise caution and discernment.
Jeremiah 8:17
“For behold, I will send serpents among you, vipers which cannot be charmed, and they shall bite you,” says the Lord.
In this verse, God proclaims judgment upon the disobedient people, describing the serpents as uncharmed and unable to be pacified. It signifies the severity of the consequences they will face.
When snakes appear in dreams, it can serve as a warning that the choices we make have consequences, and the need to seek reconciliation with God before it is too late.
Job 26:13
“By His Spirit He adorned the heavens; His hand pierced the fleeing serpent.”
This verse highlights God’s power and authority over all creation, symbolized by His ability to pierce the fleeing serpent. It demonstrates His control over every aspect of the spiritual realm.
Snakes in dreams can remind believers of God’s sovereignty and reassure them that He has the power to overcome any spiritual opposition they may face.
Ecclesiastes 10:8
“He who digs a pit will fall into it, and whoever breaks through a wall will be bitten by a serpent.”
This verse conveys the principle that those who plot harm or engage in destructive actions will often suffer the consequences of their actions. It warns of the dangers of deceit and mischief.
Snakes in dreams may symbolize the repercussions of engaging in harmful or deceptive behavior, urging believers to pursue righteousness and avoid the pitfalls of sin.
Jeremiah 46:22
“The sound of it shall be heard like a serpent; for they shall march with an army and come against her with axes, like those who chop wood.”
In this verse, the sound of an approaching army is likened to the hissing of a serpent. It depicts a formidable force gathering against a target, intending to bring destruction.
Snakes in dreams may represent the imminent threat of harm or attack, urging believers to seek refuge in God and His protection.
Amos 9:3
“And though they hide themselves on top of Carmel, from there I will search and take them; though they hide from My sight at the bottom of the sea, from there I will command the serpent, and it shall bite them.”
This verse emphasizes God’s omniscience and ability to bring judgment upon those who attempt to hide or deceive Him. It portrays the serpent as an agent of God’s justice.
Snakes in dreams might symbolize the inescapable justice of God, calling on believers to pursue righteousness and accountability.
Matthew 23:33
“Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell?”
In this verse, Jesus rebukes the religious leaders, referring to them as a brood of vipers. He confronts their hypocrisy and warns them of the dire consequences they will face if they continue on their current path.
Snakes in dreams may remind believers of the importance of genuine faith and the accountability we will face if we stray from God’s truth.
2 Corinthians 11:3
“But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.”
Paul expresses concern that the Corinthians may be led astray from their devotion to Christ, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent. He warns against the dangers of falling into deception and losing sight of the truth.
Snakes in dreams can serve as a cautionary symbol, reminding believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to guard against the schemes of the enemy.
Jeremiah 51:34
“Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon has devoured me, he has crushed me; he has made me an empty vessel, he has swallowed me up like a monster; he has filled his stomach with my delicacies, he has spit me out.”
In this verse, the defeat of Babylon is depicted as a serpent devouring its prey and then spitting it out. It symbolizes the judgment that God will bring upon the oppressors of His people.
Snakes in dreams might represent the enemies that seek to devour and destroy, but believers can find reassurance in the promise that God will ultimately deliver them.
Micah 7:17
“They shall lick the dust like a serpent; they shall crawl from their holes like snakes of the earth. They shall be afraid of the Lord our God, and shall fear because of You.”
This verse describes the humiliation and defeat of those who rise against God’s people. It portrays them as serpents, acknowledging their fear and subjugation before the Lord.
Snakes in dreams may symbolize the weakness and vulnerability of the enemy in the face of God’s power and protection.
Psalm 91:13
“You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion, and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.”
This verse speaks of God’s promise to protect and empower believers, enabling them to overcome and conquer their adversaries. It demonstrates the victorious position believers have in Christ.
Snakes in dreams can serve as a reminder of the authority and victory believers possess in Christ, as they tread upon the power of the enemy.
Isaiah 11:8
“The nursing child shall play by the cobra’s hole, and the weaned child shall put his hand in the viper’s den.”
This verse paints a picture of the peaceful and harmonious future age to come, where even dangerous creatures will no longer pose a threat to children. It depicts a time of restoration and safety.
Snakes in dreams might symbolize the future hope and restoration that await believers, reminding them to trust in God’s promise of ultimate deliverance.
Revelation 22:3
“And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him.”
This verse describes the final state of the new heaven and new earth, where there will be no more curse or evil. It signifies the complete victory of God’s kingdom and the eternal reign of Christ.
Snakes in dreams may serve as a reminder that in the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan, all evil and darkness will be eradicated, and believers will dwell in perfect harmony with Him.