The name of the copper serpent destroyed during the religious reforms of King Hezekiah (727–698 BCE; 2Kgs 18:4). It was a cult symbol that stood, most likely, in the Temple court in Jerusalem for the people who assembled there. The account in (Num 21:8-9) states that its form was that of a “fiery serpent.” It appears to have been an apotropaic object, protecting those bitten by serpents (Num 21:4-9; John 3:14).
2Kgs 18:4
4He removed the high places, broke down the pillars, and cut down the sacred pole. He broke in pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, for until those da ... View more
Num 21:8-9
8And the Lord said to Moses, “Make a poisonous serpent, and set it on a pole; and everyone who is bitten shall look at it and live.”9So Moses made a serpent of ... View more
Num 21:4-9
4From Mount Hor they set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; but the people became impatient on the way.5The people spoke against God ... View more
John 3:14
14And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up,
