The Hebrew word ʻakshûwb, represented by H5919, refers to an adder or asp. Its definition suggests an origin from an unused root meaning "to coil," pointing to the image of a serpent lurking coiled up. This term appears only 1 time in the entire Bible, within a single verse.
The sole use of H5919 is found in Psalms 140:3, where the psalmist describes the words of the wicked. The verse states, "They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adders' poison is under their lips." In this context, the adder is not a literal animal but a powerful metaphor for the destructive and venomous nature of malicious speech, with its poison representing the deadly effect of slander and lies.
Several related words from its only biblical context illuminate the meaning of H5919:
- H5175 nâchâsh (serpent): Used in direct parallel with "adder" in Psalms 140:3, this general term for snake is famously associated with the subtle deception in the garden Genesis 3:1.
- H2534 chêmâh (poison): This word is explicitly linked to the adder in the phrase "adders' poison." It also carries the meaning of heat, anger, and wrath, highlighting the passionate fury behind the venomous words Nahum 1:2.
- H3956 lâshôwn (tongue): This is the instrument of the speech being described. The wicked "whet their tongue like a sword" Psalms 64:3, and it is the source from which life and death can come Proverbs 18:21.
The theological significance of H5919 is concentrated in its powerful metaphorical use.
- The Weaponization of Speech: The adder symbolizes how human words can become weapons. The wicked sharpen H8150 their tongues H3956, and the result is a poison as deadly as an adder's, located "under their lips" H8193 Psalms 140:3.
- Hidden and Deceptive Danger: The imagery of a coiled adder suggests a threat that is hidden, waiting, and attacks suddenly. This connects to the theme of deceitful speech, which often appears harmless on the surface but conceals destructive intent.
- A Portrait of Wickedness: By associating the speech of the wicked with a serpent H5175 and an adder H5919, the psalmist paints a stark picture of evil. Their words are not merely empty but are actively malicious and poisonous.
In summary, while ʻakshûwb H5919 is an exceedingly rare word, its single appearance in scripture is impactful. It functions exclusively as a metaphor to illustrate a profound spiritual truth: that words can be as dangerous and deadly as the venom of a coiled snake. Its usage in Psalms 140:3 serves as a potent warning about the destructive power of the human tongue when used for evil.
TRV