ἀσπίς (aspis)
aspis
asp
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun aspis refers to a specific type of venomous snake, often identified in ancient contexts as an asp or cobra. Its bite was considered fatal unless treated immediately by cutting away the affected tissue, a detail that underscores the lethal danger associated with the animal. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Romans 3:13.
Paul quotes Psalm 14:3 to describe the universal sinfulness of humanity, comparing the human tongue to "the poison of asps." This vivid imagery highlights how destructive deceit and malice can be, striking at the heart of community and truth. The Old Testament background reinforces this view, where similar terms denote deadly serpents whose venom spreads quickly through the body.
While the exact species remains debated among scholars, the theological weight lies in its symbolism: just as the asp’s venom is invisible yet deadly, so too can corrupt speech spread ruin without immediate detection. Paul uses this stark metaphor to emphasize the depth of human brokenness apart from divine grace.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word aspis refers to a venomous snake, specifically an asp or cobra, known for its deadly bite. In Romans 3:13, Paul uses this image to describe the destructive power of deceitful speech. He quotes Psalm 14:3, noting that "the poison of vipers is under their lips." This metaphor highlights how quickly harmful words can spread ruin, much like invisible venom.
Understanding this imagery helps us see the seriousness of our words. Just as a snakebite requires immediate attention, corrupt speech demands careful stewardship. We are invited to reflect on how our tongues can either build up or tear down those around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of vipers1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀσπίδων1×
Key Verses
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Romans 3:13
“Their throat is an open tomb. With their tongues they have used deceit.” “The poison of vipers is under their lips.”
Paul uses this specific term to illustrate the lethal nature of deceitful speech in his argument about universal sinfulness.