Old Testament
Genesis 49:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Genesis 49:17, Jacob is prophesying about his son Dan, comparing him to a snake and a viper.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"Dan will be a snake beside the road, a viper along the path, that strikes at the horse's heels so that its rider tumbles backward."
Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 49:17, Jacob is prophesying about his son Dan, comparing him to a snake and a viper. This imagery suggests that Dan's descendants will be cunning and potentially dangerous, striking unexpectedly like a serpent. The reference to the horse's heels indicates that Dan's actions may cause others to stumble or fall, symbolizing betrayal or treachery. This prophecy reflects the character traits that may emerge from Dan's lineage, hinting at a future where they might act in ways that are deceptive or harmful. The metaphor of a serpent also evokes the idea of stealth and the ability to attack from a hidden position, suggesting that Dan's influence could be subtle yet impactful. Overall, this verse serves as a warning about the potential for conflict and the need for vigilance against those who may appear harmless but can cause significant harm. Explore related deception.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 49:17 to your life
This verse reminds us to be cautious of those who may seem harmless but can cause harm. It encourages us to be aware of our surroundings and the intentions of others, fostering discernment in our relationships and decisions. Trust should be built on integrity and transparency.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 49:17 mean?
Genesis 49:17 describes Jacob's prophecy about his son Dan, comparing him to a snake and a viper. This imagery suggests that Dan's descendants may be cunning and capable of causing harm unexpectedly, symbolizing potential betrayal or treachery.
What is the significance of the serpent in Genesis 49:17?
The serpent in Genesis 49:17 represents stealth and danger, indicating that Dan's lineage may act in deceptive ways. This metaphor highlights the potential for conflict and the need for vigilance against those who may seem harmless but can cause significant harm.
What does the phrase 'strikes at the horse's heels' mean in Genesis 49:17?
The phrase 'strikes at the horse's heels' suggests that Dan's actions may lead to others stumbling or falling. It symbolizes the idea that his descendants could create situations that cause others to experience setbacks or betrayals.
How can Genesis 49:17 be applied in daily life?
Genesis 49:17 encourages us to be cautious of individuals who may appear harmless but have hidden intentions. It serves as a reminder to foster discernment in our relationships and to build trust based on integrity and transparency.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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