What reptile is alluded to is not definitely known: the Hebrew words (tsepha in Isaiah 14:29 only) and tsiphoni are from 'to hiss.' The texts in which they occur refer to its dangerous character. Its deadly sting will be changed in the millennium, when a little child shall put its hand on its den. Of Israel it is said figuratively 'they hatch cockatrice' eggs.' Isaiah 11:8 , Isaiah 59:5; Jeremiah 8:17 . The latter word is translated 'adder' in Proverbs 23:32 .