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Dan will be a serpent in the way, An adder in the path, That bites the horse`s heels, So that his rider falls backward.

Verse Takeaways

1

Cunning Over Courage

Commentators agree that the serpent imagery describes the tribe of Dan's military style. Lacking the size and strength of other tribes, Dan would rely on strategy, surprise, and cunning to overcome more powerful enemies. As one scholar puts it, they would show "more cunning than courage," much like a small snake can bring down a mighty horse and rider. This was famously demonstrated by the Danite hero, Samson.

See 3 Verse Takeaways

Book Overview

Genesis

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Commentaries

6

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Genesis 49:1–33

18th Century

Theologian

מכרה mekêrāh — “weapon;” related: כיר kārar or כרה kārāh dig. “Device, design?” related:

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Genesis 49:16–17

19th Century

Bishop

Dan. —Turning to the sons of the handmaids, it was necessary to assure them of an independent rank among their brothers. The four …

Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Genesis 49:16–17

19th Century

Preacher

Dan shall judge his people, as one of the tribes of Israel.

Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that bitet…

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John Gill

John Gill

On Genesis 49:17

17th Century

Pastor

Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path
Or be like that sort of serpents called the adder; or rather…

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Genesis 49:13–18

17th Century

Minister

Concerning Zebulun: if prophecy says, Zebulun shall be a haven of ships, be sure Providence will plant him accordingly. God appoints the b…