In today’s episode of Changing, Donald gives us insight into the meaning of the serpent. Throughout scripture (and history), we see the snake as an evil being. But how did that negative connotation come about, and is it accurate to what we know? Join us as our host, Donald Kelly, answers these questions and discusses the snake on the stick.

The Lord told Moses how to heal the poisoned: 

• In Numbers, the people just had to look at the serpent to be healed. But, naturally, people didn’t believe that. 
• We often feel like if we don’t understand something, we won’t work toward it (like our faith.)

The history of the serpent:

• BYU professor Andrew C. Skinner discusses the serpent and how the creature can be linked to a myriad of connotations, from healing and divine law to evil and cunning.
• In Egypt, snakes represent several gods, and life-giving powers were attributed to them because they shed their skin and emerge from it, symbolizing rebirth.
• A snake biting its tail was a common representation of eternity because of its everlasting nature and “showing” its new body.

Pharaohs wore snakes on their headdresses to represent deity and sovereignty.

• When Moses was commanded to deliver people out of Egypt, he threw his staff in front of the Pharoah and his court to prove that God commanded them. 
• In Phonecians, later in history, people worshipped snakes because the poison they held delivered instant judgment.
• Snakes aren’t bad, but they give and take life. Like God, the Serpent shows God’s power over life and death.

But why is the snake viewed as something negative? Why is the serpent on a stick? Find out on the next episode of Changing Above all, first, lead with love. If this podcast speaks to you or helps you on your journey to change, let us know by leaving a rating or review. Share your testimony or contact Donald at [email protected], or contact him on Twitter or Instagram.