Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage together. It's a pretty poetic and symbolic verse from Genesis 49:17. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes God’s plan for Daniel – essentially, he’s being given a special role that involves both cunning and danger. Here’s a breakdown of each part: “Dan shall be a serpent” : This is the most striking part. A "serpent" in this context isn't meant to be a literal snake. It represents someone who is clever, manipulative, and skilled at trickery. Daniel will be a person who uses his intelligence to influence people and situations. “by the way” : This emphasizes that Daniel’s skill won't just be about tricking people; it’s about being in control of situations. He’ll be positioned to impact things in ways that benefit him later. “an adder in the path” : This describes Daniel as someone who will be a challenging and potentially dangerous force. An adder is known for its venomous bite, implying he could cause harm or disruption. “that biteth the horse heels” : This is where it gets really symbolic. "Horse heels" represent a situation – perhaps a political upheaval, a conflict, or a difficult challenge. Daniel's actions will be directly causing this trouble. “so that his rider shall fall backward” : This means that Daniel’s efforts, though initially causing problems, ultimately lead to a positive outcome for God and the kingdom. His skillful maneuvering and influence will cause the "rider" (the situation) to stumble or falter, resulting in a favorable outcome for someone greater than him. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse speaks to Daniel's potential for great leadership and influence. It suggests that Daniel will be a figure of power who will use his intelligence and abilities to help God and guide people toward righteousness. It’s a message about the importance of being strategic, thoughtful, and prepared for challenges – because even difficult situations can have positive consequences if handled with wisdom. Think of it like this: Daniel is portrayed as someone who isn't just passively reacting to events; he's actively creating opportunities for good. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Discuss the symbolism of the serpent and adder?