Serpent to Savior

Roland Clarke

The article titled, Serpent, in the New World Encyclopedia makes a number of interesting observations showing how cultures around the world have viewed snakes and serpents:

A prominent archaeologist and theologian recently noted that the bronze image of a snake on a pole in Moses' time “focused the Israelites' faith on God, who pledged that everyone bitten would look to His promise and live. ... [Interestingly,] snake cults existed in the Bronze Age prior to the Israelites' arrival [in the promised land]. Excavations have uncovered snake cult objects in (five Canaanite) cities. Because the bronze serpent (preserved from Moses' time) became like an idol, Hezekiah destroyed it. (2 Kings 18:4)” (From Snake to Savior, by Randall Price)

Snake cults and serpent symbols are not only found in the ancient past; they exist in modern times. Interestingly, in the city where I live we have 600 newcomers who have traditionally venerated the (black) snake, “one of the enigmas and mysteries of Yezidism.” (p.49, The Serpent Symbolism in the Yezidi Religious Tradition and the Snake in Yerevan, by Dr. Peter Nicolaus)

The author further explores the brass image of a sacred serpent and bamboo stick associated with a Yezidi cult which he, himself, discovered in Yerevan, Armenia. Nicolaus also notes that “Any visitor to Lalish in Northern Iraq will be stunned … by the image of a huge black snake that greets them on entry into the courtyard of the Yezidi main sanctuary.... In addition to these snake images carved into the walls of … many sanctuaries, the Yezidis also possess at least one statue of a snake cast in bronze.” (p. 50, bold font added for emphasis) Isn't this fascinating?

These last few years I've been asking God for wisdom to make the most of the opportunities – not only in terms of building genuine friendships with Yezidis but also pointing them to Jesus. While reading the article by Randall Price I was reminded of John 3:14-16, where Jesus “used the fiery serpent incident to explain how He interceded for us. We were fatally bitten by that old serpent, the Devil, through the fall (Rev. 12:9; 20:2) and were dying from the poison of sin. … Once we realize we are doomed to die for our sin (Rom. 5:12) and look to the One God has raised up, Christ on the cross, to heal us, we will live (eternally).” (Price, op. cit.)

Mystery

The Scripture passage which instructs us to relate to unbelievers in a gracious, seasoned-with-salt manner also mentions the “mystery” of the gospel. (Colossians 4:2-6) Indeed, the Bible often talks about the gospel as a mystery that we need to present in a clear, understandable way.

Dr. Peter Nicolaus notes that Yezidizm acknowledges senjaqs (like peacock and snake) as “symbols of the supreme divine being (Xwade, Allah, etc,) … the symbolism of the snake remain(s) mysterious and inaccessible for non-Yezidis.” (bold added) This emblem is shrouded in secrecy as Nicolaus has carefully documented. For example, he recounts a conversation in 1846 between Yezidi leaders and the famous archaeologist, “Sir Austen Henry Layard, whose excavations greatly increased the knowledge of the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia. … Layard was invited to participate in almost all events connected with the celebration of the principal feast of the Yezidi religious year. The religious leadership appeared to reply openly to all his questions in the friendliest and frankest manner. Nevertheless, they did not tell him the full truth. For instance, when he saw a black snake carved into the wall near the doorway of the main temple at Lalish … Layard considered it 'particularly conspicuous' and suspected that the snake and the other figures on the same wall were emblematical. However, he could 'obtain no other explanation from Sheikh Nasr, than that they had been cut by the Christian mason who repaired the tomb some years ago, as ornaments suggested by his mere fancy.'” (Layard, 1882: 184)

More recently Joanna Bochenska probes the fascinating, if perplexing, snake symbol in her article, Following the snake: Yezidi Interpretations in Contemporary Literature. Bochenska cites three modern Kurdish authors (Mehmed Uzun, Hesene Mete & Jan Dost) who “admit that many [Yezidi] symbols are 'mysterious' and one is unable to understand them fully.” So she suggests that creative new interpretations of mythical Kurdish stories “await to be discovered in its intertextual dimension. That is why the modern interpretation should rather expand the borders and seek new perspectives and approaches.” (p.124)

The Paradoxical Symbolism of Snakes in Yezidism

Bochenska cites a snake fairy tale titled, Cilkezi, which involves a black and white snake. Then she “underline(s) a few meanings which can be connected with the Yezidi tradition where the snake is a significant symbol associated with Good rather than Evil as is widespread in Christian and Muslim traditions.” (p.127, bold added) She continues to explain that it “would be more appropriate to say that the snake's 'natural evil' is understood as the source of Good not Evil.” (p.128) In the final analysis, Bochenska endorses a conundrum/paradox, “based on the co-existence of opposites and implies the close relationship between God and Satan.” (p.146) Nevertheless, instead of resolving the tension between these opposites, her approach ends up blurring the distinction between Good and Evil!

Interfaith-Intertext

Tragically, Bochenska overlooks two stories about serpents from the writings of Moses that can provide a key to unlock the paradox involving opposites: God/Satan, Good/Evil. In the first story YHWH, the one true God, confounds and overpowers Pharaoh's false gods by miraculously turning Moses' rod into a snake which ultimately devours the inferior snakes belonging to Pharaoh's magicians.

The second Bible story which conveys positive snake symbolism is summarized in The Action Bible as follows (based on Numbers 20:22-21:22):

We know that a serpent image/symbol was common in the ancient world and in the time of Moses snakes were venerated in Egypt and in land of Canaan. But the Israelites had a starkly different attitude rooted in their understanding that God cursed the ancient serpent for misleading Adam and Eve and causing their downfall. So the question naturally arises, "Why did God use a bronze image of a snake lifted on a pole as a positive remedy, signifying deliverance?"

Connecting the dots: SNAKE to SAVIOR

Christ's disciples found it extremely difficult to comprehend what Jesus was saying even when he clearly predicted that he would be killed and rise again three days later. (Luke 18:33-36; cf. John 20:9) If Jesus' closest associates struggled to grasp this teaching we mustn't think it will be easy for modern unbelievers, including Yezidis, to recognize how the bronze snake which Moses lifted up corresponds with Jesus who was lifted up (on a cross). This challenge calls to mind the earlier statement from Colossians 4 describing the gospel as a mystery thus implying that we need to present the good news in a way that is meaningful and understandable to our audience.

I've been in the home of certain Yezidis who have displayed a snake symbol on a wall-hanging beside a depiction of their main sanctuary at Lalish. On another occasion, while in the home of another Yezidi friend, they gave me a 'virtual' tour on a cell phone showing pictures of this special temple to which every devout Yezidi is encouraged to make pilgrimage.

In these pictures I noticed an image of a snake next to the entrance of their temple, not unlike the one Sir Austen Layard observed 180 years ago. As a friend it would have been natural for me to make an observation or ask questions out of genuine curiosity (without judgmental overtones), but sadly, I missed that opportunity.

In such circumstances it is appropriate to comment as follows; “Seeing the snake reminds me of a story about a bronze snake that God told the prophet Moses to mount on a pole.” “Have you heard about this story?” Then, if/when the door opens one could read the story as recorded in Numbers chapter 20 & 21.

After reading this riveting story we need to consider, “How can we make stimulating (seasoned) conversation with our Yezidi friends?” Allow me to suggest a simple question, “What do you think (or how do you feel) about this story?” Then, give a sincere listening ear. (This may also include exploring some impromptu remark from your friend involving a peculiar facet of Yezidi snake tradition.)

After listening carefully, be alert to an opportunity for posing a question based on the Bible story, “Why did the Israelites ask for advice from Moses?” … “Do you think they were looking for a quick and easy solution or did they sincerely want healing for the sin they committed?”

Obviously, a superficial solution for outward symptoms would be pointless. This raises another question, “How do you think God's servant, Moses, would be able to discern people's heart motives?”

Any Israelite who was willing to gaze with a contrite heart at the bronze serpent – the very symbol of their judgment – would humbly acknowledge, “This is the judgment that you, Lord, have justly brought upon us, and only you [Lord] can deliver us from it.” However, for those who were unrepentant and only wanted relief from bodily pain, probably they refused to heed Moses instruction. They were not interested to look with faith at the uplifted bronze snake. But whoever did look in faith was healed. This response demonstrated which people humbled themselves.

Making the connection between the uplifted serpent and the uplifted Son of Man may not be easy but remember that Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would guide us. Four Scriptures as quoted below are especially helpful in clarifying this challenging comparison:

Fanciful Christian ornament?

Earlier we noted how leaders in Lalish gave archaeologist Layard an evasive answer in response to his curious query, “Is there any significance to the snake emblem at the shrine entrance?” They explained that it was “cut by the Christian mason who repaired the tomb some years ago, as ornaments suggested by his mere fancy.” (bold added for emphasis) Were these Yezidi leaders inadvertently pointing in the right direction?

Furthermore, we have noted Joanna Bochenska's suggestion that creative new interpretations of mythical Kurdish stories “await to be discovered in its intertextual dimension.” (bold added) Undoubtedly this is true, but sadly, Bochenska (unwittingly or cleverly?) limits the scope of her “intertextual dimension” to Kurdish and Muslim writers. The fact is: most modern scholars use the term intertextual in the context of interfaith dialog. Therefore, Bochenska would have been wiser if she had included Jewish and Christian Scriptures (Old and New Testament) in her discussion. Clearly the Bible is the true compass enabling lost humanity to find our way home.

Destiny of the ancient serpent

The last book of the Bible records the final events of world history, in line with the divine verdict against Satan as predicted earlier by Christ in John 12:31 and indeed, as foretold by God in Genesis 3:15.

Conclusion

The basic purpose of this article is to explain the redemptive analogy in John 3:14-16 where Jesus said, "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him."

Much of the discussion focused on how this principle applies to Yezidis, however, we should not underestimate its relevance to people of other cultures who also venerate/admire snakes. Indeed, the Serpent-to-Savior analogy has profound worldwide relevance, if only, because most humans harbor deep feelings of fear and or hatred toward snakes.

However, it is also important to bear in mind: snake cults, like Yezidizm, are painfully aware that snakes can be very dangerous. Dr. Peter Nicolaus has documented this at length in, The Serpent Symbolism in the Yezidi Religious Tradition and the Snake in Yerevan. He explains on page 57 that “according to Yezidi lore and the Black Book, the serpent, or at least its offspring, caused harm to man and was finally caught and burned. According to one account even the intentions of the serpent that rescued the ark [of Noah] were from the outset sinister and evil.²⁴ ” (bold added) Nicolaus continues by quoting from two researchers who cited a tradition which involved the eminent trio Sheikh 'Adi, Melik, Sheikh Sin and Sheikh Shems. These three dignitaries encountered a snake while walking on a road, and each of them, in turn, recoiled from the snake, not allowing it to kiss his hand. Why?

Point to ponder

The Devil's final destiny

Earlier we glimpsed the final destruction and burning of the serpent as taught in Yezidi folk lore and their Black Book. Interestingly, this agrees with the Bible, "And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lack of burning sulfur." (Revelation 20:10) I want to urge readers, therefore, to take to heart how Jesus pointed to the ancient healing imagery of the snake as lifted up by Moses. Then, immediately after comparing the uplifted serpent to himself being lifted up, Jesus declared, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

God's 'foolishness': wiser than man's wisdom

The article, titled, Look Snake, raises some thought provoking questions based on negative connotations associated with the ancient serpent's crafty deceit in causing the downfall of mankind. It strikes humans as strange that God uses a snake metaphor in Numbers 21 to signify a good remedy – a way to rescue and redeem mankind?

Let me rephrase the question, “Considering the serpent was accursed in the garden of Eden, why didn't God instruct Moses to use a completely different motif than a serpent image?” “Wouldn't it have been simpler for Moses to set up a bronze lamb on a pole for the stricken Israelites to look at and live?” (echoing the familiar rescue motif of the Passover Lamb). It is tempting to think this way, but on closer examination we see that God has his reasons.

Earlier we noted that the Israelites who suffered fatal snake bites should look at a snake image, the very symbol of their judgment so they would humbly acknowledge God had justly brought this judgment and only he could deliver them. Similarly, today we must repent and look at Jesus on the cross, acknowledging that he bore our sin, God's wrath and judgment for our sake.

Scripture says that from man's viewpoint, the cross is foolishness and weakness, but the truth is, the cross shows God's wisdom and demonstrates his power. Furthermore, God's wisdom 'outwits' worldly wisdom (i Corinthians 1:18-31; 3:18-20) Humanly speaking, it makes no sense for Almighty God to allow his Son to die like a criminal on the cross. However, in the end, God's plan proves to be wise. Through Christ's death, resurrection and ascension, Jesus is exalted above all principalities and powers. He is acclaimed the victor over all enemies including death and the Devil. (Philippians 2:5-10; 1 Corinthians 15:25-26; Revelation 20:10,14) Therefore, we should never presume that we can improve on God's wisdom by theorizing that a better solution for healing deadly snake bites could be to put a bronze lamb on a pole (as well intentioned as this suggestion may be).

A precis of the long article, Serpent to Savior, is available under the title, Look Snake!, which fits conveniently on two pages and is formatted as a PDF file. It shows how snake imagery in Exodus 7:8- 13 was, in fact, a strategic part of God's plan to outwit and overpower Pharaoh's wise magicians.

Another article exploring the theme of eternal life in the context of Yezidism is titled, Living water for Yezidis. It is available online here.

All Bible quotes are taken from the New International Version.

If you have questions about the article or would like to discuss these themes further please contact me here.

Postscript

Global Symbol: Snake-on-a-Pole

John Gu's excellent article, The Serpent on a Pole, observes that this image is featured on the flag of the World Health Organization. He asks, “Why is this? And where did it come from? Despite being such a unique and well known symbol, it seems as if the real story behind it has been long forgotten.”

So what's the real story? The Bible tells plainly how God performed countless signs and wonders demonstrating idolatry to be false and proving that he is the one true living God. John Gu explains that enroute to the promised land,

Salvation from death comes not from a Greek god, Asclepius, or indeed, any other idol. As it is written, “Ignorant are those who carry about idols of wood, who pray to gods that cannot save. Declare what is to be, present it—let them take counsel together. Who foretold this long ago, who declared it from the distant past? Was it not I, the Lord? And there is no God apart from me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none but me. Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.” (Isaiah 45:20-22) Then a few chapters later the prophet Isaiah foretells the coming of a special servant of the LORD who brings God's salvation worldwide. “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob … I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.” (Isaiah 49:6)