viper

A genus of snakes prevalent in the ancient world, some of which were poisonous. Because the bite of the poisonous viper could be fatal, people naturally wanted to avoid any contact with any type. Consequently, the term “viper” came to be used figuratively as a designation for evil (Isa 30:6; Isa 59:5; Job 20:16) or for people who were evil (Matt 3:7; Matt 12:34; Matt 23:33; Luke 3:7). Paul’s encounter with a viper (Acts 28:3-6) caused people to think of him as a god.