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Isaiah 59:5

They hatch cockatrice' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper.

Isaiah 59:5 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Isaiah describes the destructive and deceitful nature of evil deeds. The imagery used in this verse is quite vivid and symbolic. The reference to hatching cockatrice eggs symbolizes the process of nurturing evil intentions or actions, which can lead to disastrous consequences. Just like eating their eggs results in death, engaging in sinful behavior can lead to spiritual death or separation from God. The mention of weaving the spider's web represents the entangling and ensnaring nature of sinful actions, which can trap individuals in a cycle of wrongdoing. Furthermore, the mention of crushed eggs breaking out into a viper emphasizes the unpredictable and dangerous outcomes of indulging in sinful behaviors. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of engaging in deceitful and wicked actions, urging individuals to choose righteousness and avoid the pitfalls of sin.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the imagery of hatching cockatrice eggs and weaving spider's webs is used to depict the deceptive and dangerous nature of sin. The cockatrice was a mythical creature believed to be a deadly serpent or dragon, while spiders are often associated with deceit and cunning. Eating their eggs or being crushed by them results in death and even more harm, signifying that partaking in sin leads to destruction and further evil. The mention of vipers emphasizes the poisonous consequences of engaging in sinful activities. This verse serves as a warning against the allure of sin and highlights the importance of avoiding deceitful practices that can ultimately lead to spiritual death. In a theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as a call to steer clear of sin and to instead embrace righteousness and truth in order to avoid the traps and harm that sin brings. By staying aligned with God's will, believers can safeguard themselves from the deadly consequences of sin.

Isaiah 59:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

They hatch adders' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth; and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper.

World English Bible

They hatch adders’ eggs, and weave the spider’s web: he who eats of their eggs dies; and that which is crushed breaks out into a viper.

Douay-Rheims

They have broken the eggs of asps, and have woven the webs of spiders: he that shall eat of their eggs, shall die: and that which is brought out, shall be hatched into a basilisk.

Geneva Bible (1599)

They hatch cockatrice egges, and weaue the spiders webbe: he that eateth of their egges, dieth, and that which is trode vpon, breaketh out into a serpent.