Redemption for the Serpent: The Reception History of Serpent Material from the Physiologus in the Greek, Latin, and Syriac Traditions
Jason Scully
Abstract The Physiologus is a patristic text containing allegorical interpretations of animals. This article examines the Greek, Latin, and Syriac reception history serpent material from concludes that while Greek Latin authors repeated , John Solitary Isaac Nineveh, in tradition, furthered sense this by adding an ascetical layer interpretation. In particular, they both use to explain transformation outer man inner man. Two additional conclusions are offered. First, shows became standard resource for “redeem snake” tradition emerged sometime fourth fifth centuries due renewed interest classical zoology increase biblical commentary on Matt 10:16, where Jesus encourages his followers be as wise serpents. Second, some analogies circulated independently rest no-longer-extant form or else part separate work, possibly another natural compendium. conclusion has repercussions dating .
Zeitschrift Fur Antikes Christentum-journal of Ancient Christianity