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Deuteronomy 32:33 - Evil's bitter poison

Deuteronomy 32:33 - דברים 32:33

Hebrew Text

חֲמַת תַּנִּינִם יֵינָם וְרֹאשׁ פְּתָנִים אַכְזָר׃

English Translation

their wine is the fierceness of crocodiles, and the cruel venom of asps.

Transliteration

Khamat taninim yeinam ve-rosh ptanim akhzar.

Hebrew Leining Text

חֲמַ֥ת תַּנִּינִ֖ם יֵינָ֑ם וְרֹ֥אשׁ פְּתָנִ֖ים אַכְזָֽר׃        
חֲמַ֥ת תַּנִּינִ֖ם יֵינָ֑ם וְרֹ֥אשׁ פְּתָנִ֖ים אַכְזָֽר׃        

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context and Source

The verse "חֲמַת תַּנִּינִם יֵינָם וְרֹאשׁ פְּתָנִים אַכְזָר" appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 32:33, within the Shirat Ha'azinu, the poetic song Moshe delivers to Bnei Yisrael before his passing. This verse is part of a broader warning about the dangers of turning away from Hashem and the destructive consequences of idolatry and moral corruption.

Literal Interpretation

Rashi explains that the verse metaphorically describes the poisonous and deadly nature of the actions and influences of corrupt nations or individuals. "Their wine" symbolizes their teachings or ways, which are as dangerous as the venom of "תנינים" (tanninim), often understood as serpents or crocodiles, and "פתנים" (p'tanim), a type of venomous snake. The term "אכזר" (achzar) emphasizes the cruelty and lethality of their influence.

Midrashic and Symbolic Meaning

The Midrash (Tanchuma, Ha'azinu 4) elaborates that this verse refers to the corrupting influence of idolatrous nations, whose practices and beliefs are spiritually poisonous. Just as venom can kill the body, their false ideologies can destroy the soul. The Ibn Ezra adds that the imagery of venom highlights how their influence may seem enticing (like wine) but is ultimately deadly.

  • Tanninim (תנינים): Often associated with primordial sea monsters or serpents in Tanach (e.g., Tehillim 74:13), symbolizing chaos and evil.
  • P'tanim (פתנים): A specific type of snake, emphasizing stealth and sudden lethality (see Rashi on Bereishit 49:17).

Halachic and Ethical Implications

The Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 2:2) warns against engaging with foreign ideologies that may lead to spiritual corruption, echoing this verse's message. The Kli Yakar further explains that the "wine" here represents indulgence in sinful pleasures, which, though temporarily intoxicating, lead to ruin.

Contemporary Lesson

This verse serves as a timeless reminder to be vigilant against influences—whether cultural, philosophical, or moral—that may appear appealing but are spiritually harmful. Just as one would avoid physical poison, one must distance oneself from ideologies contrary to Torah values.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Deuteronomy 32:33 mean when it mentions 'the fierceness of crocodiles' and 'the cruel venom of asps'?
A: This verse uses strong imagery to describe the harmful influence of idolatry and sinful behavior. Rashi explains that 'the fierceness of crocodiles' and 'the cruel venom of asps' symbolize the destructive nature of indulging in forbidden pleasures, which may seem enticing at first but ultimately bring spiritual and moral ruin.
Q: Why is Deuteronomy 32:33 important in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse is part of the 'Song of Moses' (Ha'azinu), which serves as a warning to the Jewish people about the consequences of straying from Torah values. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 101a) teaches that this passage emphasizes the dangers of moral corruption and the importance of staying faithful to Hashem's commandments.
Q: How can we apply the lesson of Deuteronomy 32:33 in daily life?
A: The verse teaches us to be cautious of temptations that may seem pleasurable but are spiritually harmful. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 2:1) advises that we should distance ourselves from negative influences and instead pursue a path of moderation and holiness, as taught by the Torah.
Q: What is the deeper meaning behind the comparison to crocodiles and asps in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 10:4) explains that just as a crocodile hides beneath water before attacking, and an asp delivers deadly venom, sinful behavior often appears harmless at first but has devastating consequences. This teaches us to recognize and avoid spiritual dangers before they take hold.