Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
SERPENT, BRAZEN
A symbol of the crucified Christ. The bronze serpent entwined on the cross recalls the words of the Savior: "The Son of Man must be lifted up as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert" (John 3:14). Though mentioned in Scripture, it became a standard symbol of the Crucifixion only in the thirteenth century.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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