Are Snakes Evil?

In support of such an idea, people point to Genesis 3:14–15, where God pronounced a curse on the serpent and then on Satan (who was using the serpent) for deceiving Eve into sin.

Because you have done this,
    cursed are you above all livestock
    and above all beasts of the field;
on your belly you shall go,
    and dust you shall eat
    all the days of your life.
I will put enmity between you and the woman,
    and between your offspring and her offspring;
he shall bruise your head,
    and you shall bruise his heel.

So does this mean snakes are evil? No, the enmity mentioned in verse 15 is referencing Satan, not physical snakes. Keep in mind, snakes are not made in the image of God like people (Genesis 1:26–27). Therefore, they are incapable of evil (or good) because they are not moral beings like humans. Snakes are just animals subject to their God-given designs and instincts. Animals are amoral.

God made every beast of the earth and everything that creeps on the ground and called it “good” (Genesis 1:25, 31)—and that includes snakes.

Also, God made every beast of the earth and everything that creeps on the ground and called it “good” (Genesis 1:25, 31)—and that includes snakes. Humans are the cause of some animals, such as snakes, being potentially dangerous in today’s world because our sin wrecked God’s perfect creation (Genesis 3). But God tells us that one day, “The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder’s den” (Isaiah 11:8). If snakes are evil, why are cobras and adders included in this description of God’s perfect restored creation? Biblically, snakes are not evil—but humans are, and that’s why we need the salvation Jesus offers!

Now, a little more about the “Sssensational Snakes!” program. Here are some of the stars of this show:

During the presentation, our animal programs staff debunks sensationalized myths about snakes (such as the false claim that snakes are evil). They then present the sensational biblical truth about snakes and the gospel message. At the end of the show, guests have the opportunity to meet the friendly snakes up close and see for themselves how their design glorifies our Creator. This is your opportunity to overcome ophidiophobia (fear of snakes)!

Actually, you will love the live animal programs our zoo staff present, and the programs with snakes are some of the most popular. Come and visit the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum soon (kids 10 and under are free in ’23). We feature live animal programs at various times at both attractions. Check our daily programming calendar to plan your day at the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter.

Thanks for stopping by and thanks for praying,
Ken

This item was written with the assistance of AiG’s research team.