from an unused root meaning to extrude; a viper (as thrusting out the tongue, i.e. hissing); adder, cockatrice.
Transliteration:tsephaʻ
Pronunciation:tseh'-fah or tsiphoniy tsif-o-nee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H6848 (צֶפַע, *tsephaʻ*) denotes a venomous serpent, specifically identified as a "viper" or "adder" in English translations, and occasionally rendered "cockatrice." Its etymological root is described as unused, but its meaning is inferred from the characteristic actions of such a creature: "to extrude," particularly in reference to the thrusting out of the tongue or the act of hissing. This etymological insight highlights the suddenness and danger associated with the viper's strike and its characteristic sound. The word thus encapsulates the immediate threat and potent venom of a highly dangerous snake, emphasizing its capacity for sudden, destructive action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H6848 appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, each instance serving as a powerful metaphor for impending danger and destructive consequences:
* **[[Proverbs 23:32]]**: "In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper (H6848)." This verse is part of a larger admonition against the dangers of excessive wine consumption. The comparison to a viper's bite underscores the insidious and ultimately destructive nature of drunkenness. While initially pleasurable, the long-term effects are depicted as sudden, painful, and venomous, leading to ruin just as a viper's poison leads to death. The imagery vividly conveys the deceptive nature of sin, which promises pleasure but delivers devastation.
* **[[Isaiah 14:29]]**: "Do not rejoice, all you Philistines, that the rod that struck you is broken; for from the root of the snake will come forth a viper (H6848), and its fruit will be a darting, gliding serpent." This prophetic oracle is directed at Philistia, warning them not to celebrate the death of King Uzziah (the "rod" that struck them), as a more formidable and dangerous successor, likely Hezekiah, will arise. The "viper" here represents an escalation of threat and a more potent instrument of divine judgment. The imagery suggests that the new oppressor will be even more venomous and destructive than the previous one, highlighting an intensification of God's punitive action.
In both contexts, the H6848 (צֶפַע) functions as a potent symbol of sudden, severe, and often fatal danger, whether from the consequences of human folly or the unfolding of divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of H6848 (צֶפַע) intersects with several other Hebrew terms for snakes and serpentine creatures, each carrying distinct nuances:
* `{{H5175}}` (נָחָשׁ, *nachash*): The most general term for "serpent" or "snake," famously associated with the tempter in [[Genesis 3]]. While generic, it often carries connotations of cunning and deception.
* `{{H8314}}` (שָׂרָף, *saraph*): Meaning "fiery serpent," this term often refers to venomous snakes, particularly those encountered by Israel in the wilderness ([[Numbers 21:6]]). It emphasizes the burning sensation of their venom.
* `{{H6620}}` (פֶּתֶן, *pethen*): Often translated as "cobra" or "asp," it denotes a highly venomous snake, frequently mentioned alongside other dangerous serpents in contexts of danger or divine protection ([[Psalm 58:4]], [[Psalm 91:13]]).
* `{{H6879}}` (צִפְעוֹנִי, *tsiphʻoni*): This word, also translated as "adder" or "viper," bears a strong phonetic and semantic resemblance to H6848 (צֶפַע). It appears in prophetic contexts, often associated with the "viper's den" or the offspring of vipers, symbolizing venomous and destructive forces ([[Isaiah 11:8]], [[Isaiah 59:5]], [[Jeremiah 8:17]]). Some scholars consider it to be a specific type of viper or a more general term for a venomous serpent, closely allied with H6848.
Conceptually, H6848 is linked to themes of insidious evil, destructive consequences, divine retribution, and the sudden, overwhelming nature of danger. Its use highlights the contrast between initial appearance and ultimate reality, as seen in the deceptive appeal of wine or the short-lived relief felt by Philistia.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H6848 (צֶפַע) lies primarily in its metaphorical application to spiritual and moral truths:
* **Consequences of Sin and Folly**: In [[Proverbs 23:32]], the viper serves as a potent symbol for the bitter and destructive end of sinful indulgence. It illustrates the principle that sin, while perhaps alluring at first, ultimately "bites" and "poisons," leading to ruin. This underscores the biblical emphasis on wisdom and discernment to avoid such destructive paths.
* **Divine Judgment and Retribution**: In [[Isaiah 14:29]], the viper is an instrument or manifestation of God's sovereign judgment. It signifies an escalation of divine wrath against those who oppose His purposes. This demonstrates God's control over even the most dangerous elements of creation to fulfill His righteous decrees.
* **Nature of Evil**: The viper's characteristics—its hidden nature, sudden strike, and potent venom—mirror the insidious and destructive nature of evil itself. Evil often operates subtly, promising gratification, but ultimately delivers pain and death.
* **Warning and Awareness**: The use of such a vivid and terrifying image serves as a stark warning to biblical audiences, urging vigilance against both personal moral failings and external threats, recognizing the severe consequences that can follow.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H6848 (צֶפַע, *tsephaʻ*) designates a venomous viper, characterized by its "extruding" tongue and hissing, symbolizing its capacity for sudden and potent harm. Appearing twice in the biblical text, it functions as a powerful metaphor: in [[Proverbs 23:32]], it represents the insidious and ultimately destructive consequences of sin, specifically drunkenness; in [[Isaiah 14:29]], it signifies an escalation of divine judgment, portraying a more formidable and venomous oppressor. The term is closely related to other Hebrew words for dangerous serpents, particularly `{{H6879}}` (צִפְעוֹנִי), and underscores theological themes of the destructive nature of sin, the certainty of divine judgment, and the need for spiritual discernment. Its infrequent but impactful usage highlights its role as a vivid and terrifying image of profound danger and ultimate ruin.
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