Understanding the Messianic Symbolism in Alma 33:19-23: Christ in the Wilderness

In Alma 33:19–23, we’re reminded of the powerful Messianic symbol of the Nechushtan¹, a bronze serpent raised by Moses in the wilderness. This symbol is central to understanding Christ’s redemptive power. It’s more than an ancient miracle; it serves as a testament to faith and the promise of salvation. The Nehushtan was a lifeline for the Israelites bitten by fiery serpents, much like Jesus Christ is for us today. This passage in Alma highlights the importance of looking to Christ, who was lifted up on the cross, just as the serpent was lifted up. For Latter-day Saints, this is a vivid reminder that by faith in Him, we can overcome our trials and attain eternal life.

Understanding the Nechushtan

The story of the Nechushtan, or the brass serpent, introduced in the Old Testament, offers profound insights for Latter-day Saint Christians. This symbol, originated by Moses, has become a powerful representation of faith and healing, closely linked with Messianic themes.

What is the Nechushtan?

The Nechushtan is a brass serpent that Moses crafted during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. As recounted in the Book of Numbers, when venomous snakes plagued the people, God instructed Moses to make a serpent and set it on a pole. Those who looked upon the Nechushtan were miraculously healed.

Biblical Origins

The account of the Nechushtan is found in Numbers 21:4-9. Here, the Israelites grumbled against God and Moses, and as a result, venomous snakes were sent among them. In response to their repentance, God provided a means of healing through the brass serpent.

This brass serpent was later referred to as “Nehushtan” in the time of King Hezekiah. The Israelites had begun to worship this figure, burning incense to it, and Hezekiah destroyed it as a religious reform (2 Kings 18:4).

Symbolic Significance

The Nechushtan is emblematic of faith and obedience. The act of looking up at the brass serpent required belief in God’s promise of healing. It demonstrates that salvation comes through faith and trust in divine intervention.

Furthermore, the Nechushtan serves as a powerful type or symbol of Christ. Just as the Israelites looked upon the serpent to be healed from physical affliction, we look unto Christ for spiritual healing. This parallel is explicitly drawn in John 3:14-15, where Jesus compares Himself to the serpent lifted in the desert, signifying His crucifixion and the salvation offered to all.

Messianic Connections

The Nechushtan’s connection to Messianic prophecies is profound. It prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ and underscores the importance of looking unto Him for redemption. This brass serpent, once a means of physical healing, foreshadows the spiritual healing brought about by Christ’s atonement. The simplicity of the Israelites’ act of faith in looking at the serpent mirrors our call to have faith in Christ.

By understanding the origins and significance of the Nechushtan, we can deepen our appreciation of its role as a type of Christ. This ancient symbol powerfully illustrates the principles of faith, obedience, and ultimate redemption that are central to our beliefs.

Exegesis of Numbers 21:9-11

The story found in Numbers 21:9-11 revolves around the Israelites, who were wandering in the wilderness after being freed from slavery in Egypt. Due to their constant complaining and lack of faith, God sent fiery serpents among them as a form of punishment. When bitten, many Israelites died. Desperate for relief, they asked Moses to intercede on their behalf. God then instructed Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. Anyone who looked at the bronze serpent after being bitten would live.

The Messianic Symbolism

In the Old Testament, the brass serpent on a pole might seem like an unusual remedy for snake bites. However, this symbol foreshadows the coming of Christ and His power to save and heal.

• Healing and Salvation: Just as the Israelites were healed from the venomous bites by looking at the brass serpent, we too are healed from the venom of sin by looking to Christ. This connection to Christ becomes clearer in the New Testament when Jesus Himself draws the parallel. In John 3:14-15, He says, “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” Here, the brass serpent symbolizes how faith in Christ brings spiritual healing.
• Visible Act of Faith: The act of looking at the brass serpent was simple, yet it required faith. Similarly, faith in Jesus requires us to look up to Him, acknowledging His power and seeking His salvation. This symbolism underlines the simplicity and accessibility of faith – it’s about trust and belief.
• Ultimate Sacrifice: The serpent on the pole points to Jesus’ crucifixion. While serpents are often symbols of sin, Jesus took on our sins and was lifted on the cross so that we might have eternal life. This powerful imagery connects the Old Testament to the New Testament, reinforcing the Messiah’s role in God’s plan for our salvation.

Thus, the brass serpent is more than just a historical event; it’s a profound symbol of Christ’s atoning sacrifice and the healing we receive through faith in Him.

Each of these aspects demonstrates how the brass serpent served as a prophetic symbol of Christ, showing us that the Old Testament is filled with Messianic signs, all pointing towards the ultimate salvation through Jesus.

The Deuteronomic History

The Deuteronomic History² is a significant part of the Hebrew Bible, covering the books from Deuteronomy to 2 Kings. It’s known for emphasizing the covenant between God and Israel, focusing on themes like faithfulness, punishment, and redemption. For Latter-day Saint Christians, understanding this history enhances our comprehension of many biblical events and figures, including the story of the Nechushtan and Hezekiah’s reforms³.

Hezekiah’s Reform and the Destruction of the Nechushtan

Hezekiah, the King of Judah from around 715 to 686 BCE, is renowned for his religious reforms that shifted Israel’s focus from idolatry to sincere worship. One of the most notable actions during his reign was the destruction of the Nechushtan⁴, a bronze serpent that Moses had created in the wilderness.

What Was the Nechushtan?

The Nechushtan was originally created by Moses at God’s command to heal the Israelites who were bitten by venomous snakes. However, over time, the people of Israel began to idolize the serpent, worshipping it rather than God.

Hezekiah’s Bold Reforms

Hezekiah appeared to believe that true worship had been compromised by idolatry. His reforms were bold and comprehensive:

• Removal of High Places: Hezekiah destroyed local altars where sacrifices were made, advocating for worship at the central temple in Jerusalem.
• Breaking the Pillars and Cutting Down the Asherah Pole: Hezekiah eliminated symbols associated with pagan worship.
• Destruction of the Nechushtan: Perhaps his most significant act was breaking the bronze serpent. By doing so, Hezekiah emphasized that true worship was about a relationship with God, not objects.

These reforms were part of what is known as the Deuteronomic History, a retelling of Israel’s past with the intent to highlight its covenant with God. Hezekiah’s actions were seen as a return to the covenant’s core principles, urging the people to recommit to God.

Implications for Understanding the Nechushtan

For Latter-day Saint Christians, this history underscores a powerful message:

• Avoid Idolatry: Even good things can become idols if they take God’s place in our hearts.
• Focus on True Worship: Our worship should revolve around our relationship with God, not rituals or objects.
• Messianic Foreshadowing: The Nechushtan, initially a symbol of salvation, became a temptation toward idolatry. Similarly, Christ’s role as the ultimate savior should always point us to a living relationship with God.

Thus, Hezekiah’s reforms and the destruction of the Nechushtan highlight a crucial aspect of the Deuteronomic History for us today: true worship is about our commitment to God, not just religious artifacts.

Contrasting Idol Worship and Genuine Worship

In Alma 33:19–23, the prophet Alma refers to Moses raising a brass serpent in the wilderness. This act serves as a type of Christ, embodying faith and the power of true worship. But, throughout history, there are stark contrasts between such genuine worship and idol worship, especially as seen in the practices of the Zoramites and ancient worshippers of Baal.

The Zoramite Rameumptom vs. High Places of Baal Worship

When we look at the Zoramite Rameumptom, we see stark similarities to the high places of Baal worship. Both represent the dangers and futility associated with false worship.

1. The Zoramite Rameumptom:

• Pomp and Display: The Zoramites built a tall platform called the Rameumptom, which they climbed to pray. Their prayers were loud, rehearsed, and aimed at displaying their piety rather than sincere communication with God.
• Exclusivity and Pride: The Rameumptom was used by only the elite Zoramites, creating a divide between them and the rest of the community. This fostered pride and a sense of superiority.
• Empty Rituals: The Zoramite prayers were repetitive and void of genuine intent, emphasizing self-glory instead of heartfelt worship of YHWH.

2. High Places of Baal Worship:

• Pomp and Display: Similar to the Rameumptom, Baal worship involved elaborate rituals often conducted on high places or elevated altars. These rituals were designed to impress the onlookers.
• Pervasiveness: Baal worship was widespread, leading people away from the worship of YHWH. It included various corrupt practices, including child sacrifice and immoral acts, which starkly opposed the teachings of the true God.
• Deceptive Practices: The worship of Baal promised immediate and tangible rewards, such as good harvests or rain, but led people into a cycle of dependency and spiritual emptiness.

Why is this comparison important?

Understanding these forms of false worship helps us appreciate the significance of true worship. True worship, as shown by Moses raising the brass serpent, is about looking to Christ with genuine faith. It’s not about the place, the pomp, or the ritual, but about the heart and intent behind the worship.

True worship:

• Fosters Humility: Unlike the exclusivity seen with the Zoramite Rameumptom or the high places of Baal, true worship brings us closer to God through humility, recognizing our dependence on Him.
• Encourages Community: True worship isn’t exclusive. It brings people together in a shared expression of faith and love for YHWH.
• Promises Eternal Rewards: While idol worship may promise immediate benefits, genuine worship of Christ offers eternal salvation, as symbolized by the brass serpent Moses raised.

Too often, we may find ourselves building modern-day Rameumptoms or high places, placing our trust in things or people that offer immediate gratification. Alma’s words remind us to look to Christ, the ultimate source of healing and life, and avoid the pitfalls of false worship. True worship is not about rituals or displays but about a heartfelt connection with our Savior, who was raised so that we might live eternally.

Alma 33:19-23: Alma’s Testimony

Alma 33:19-23 offers a profound testimony that connects the ancient Israelites’ experiences in the wilderness to the coming of Jesus Christ. Alma uses a powerful metaphor to illustrate this connection, drawing from the story of the Nechushtan—a brass serpent lifted by Moses to heal the Israelites.

Messianic Prophecy of Christ’s Coming

In Alma’s words, he describes how the Nechushtan, the brass serpent, was a type—a symbol—of Christ. The story goes back to a time when the Israelites, after rebelling against God, were plagued by venomous snakes. Moses was instructed to create a brass serpent and elevate it on a pole. Those who looked at it were healed. This account from the Book of Numbers in the Old Testament serves as a vivid prophecy of the future Messiah.

Alma emphasizes that just as the Israelites were saved by looking at the brass serpent, so too would people be saved by looking to Christ. He underscores that belief in Christ and His atoning sacrifice is essential for spiritual healing.

Here are some key points Alma makes about this connection:

• Christ as the Ultimate Healer: Alma explains that just like the brass serpent brought physical healing, Christ brings spiritual healing. The serpent on the pole is a symbol of Jesus on the cross.
• Faith and Obedience: The act of looking at the serpent is likened to having faith in Christ. It wasn’t the brass serpent itself that had the power to heal, but the act of faith in following God’s command that brought healing.
• Prophetic Significance: By referring to this story, Alma reinforces the prophetic significance—showing that the scriptures have long pointed to Christ’s coming and His role as the Redeemer.

This passage from Alma is not just about past events. It is a clear declaration of the coming of Christ and the necessity of faith in Him for salvation. Alma’s testimony links Old Testament symbols with New Testament fulfillment, offering a seamless narrative that underscores the continuity of God’s plan for humanity. This profound connection also serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of looking to Jesus for true spiritual healing.

Application for Latter-day Saints Today

Understanding the symbolism of the Nehushtan, a bronze serpent raised by Moses in the wilderness, is more than just a historical lesson. For modern Latter-day Saints, this story in Alma 33:19-23 offers profound spiritual insights and practical applications. Let’s explore how recognizing this type of Christ can influence our daily lives and deepen our faith.

Embracing Symbolism in Christ

The Nechushtan, depicted in Alma’s teachings, symbolizes Jesus Christ’s power to heal and save. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the bronze serpent, we can find healing through Christ. Every time we face challenges, we can remember that faith in Christ offers solutions and comfort.

• Personal Healing: By putting our faith in Christ, we can overcome personal trials and find emotional and spiritual healing.
• Daily Inspiration: Reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and how it motivates us to live better and serve others.

Faith and Repentance

Faith and repentance are core principles in Latter-day Saint doctrine. The story of the Nehushtan reminds us that simple acts of faith can lead to great blessings.

• Simple Acts of Faith: In the same way that looking at the serpent healed the Israelites, our simple acts of faith—like prayer and scripture study—can lead to spiritual healing.
• Ongoing Repentance: This story encourages us to continually repent and seek Christ’s atonement in our lives.

Strengthening Community Ties

By understanding and discussing these scriptural symbols within our congregations, we can strengthen our communal bonds.

• Teaching Moments: Use the symbolism of the Nehushtan to teach family and friends about Christ’s eternal love and sacrifice.
• Shared Faith: Discussing scriptural stories strengthens our shared faith and builds a supportive community.

Reflecting Christ’s Light

Just as the brass serpent was a visual representation of Christ, our actions can reflect His light to others.

• Being Examples: Strive to be examples of faith and goodness in our communities.
• Service: Engage in acts of service that reflect the love and compassion Christ has for all of us.

In conclusion, the story of the Nehushtan in Alma 33:19-23 isn’t just ancient history. It’s a powerful reminder of Christ’s love and the profound impact faith in Him can have on our lives today.

Conclusion

Alma 33:19–23 powerfully illustrates the enduring significance of the brazen serpent, or Nechushtan, as a Messianic symbol. As members of the Latter-day Saints faith, we recognize this parallel to Christ being lifted up on the cross. The call to “look and live” is as relevant today as it was in the wilderness.

This passage emphasizes faith, simplicity, and trust in divine healing. The Nechushtan serves as a reminder of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and His role in our salvation. By embracing this symbol, we deepen our understanding of Christ’s atonement and reaffirm our commitment to follow Him.

The teachings in Alma 33 encourage us to plant the word of God in our hearts and nourish it with faith. In doing so, we can experience spiritual growth and healing that is available to all who believe. The Messianic message in this scripture is clear and compelling: through Christ, we find life and hope.

ENDNOTES

1. Dr. Richard Lederman: Nehushtan, the Copper Serpent: Its Origins and Fate – “The Torah describes Moses building a copper serpent to heal the Israelites. According to Kings, Hezekiah destroys it because it was being worshiped. Archaeology and history clarify the religious and political meaning of this image.” ↩︎
2. Alison L. Joseph: The Deuteronomistic History and Israel’s Kings – The perspective of Dtr [Deuteronomistic Historian] is clear: Israelite worship should be centralized. As such, he uses Jeroboam as a literary tool to construct the portraits of and pass judgment on northern kings. As rivals to the Davidic throne, northern kings, are almost always judged negatively. The bad kings are like Jeroboam. The standard by which they are measured has little to do with their comprehensive behavior as kings, but instead is concerned with their actions for and against uncentralized worship and (in)fidelity to the deuteronomistic covenant. This issue becomes of the utmost importance in the eyes of the historian. Despite other kings’ wrongdoing—emptying the temple treasury (Jehoash, 2 Kgs 11:15), warring against the other kingdom (Asa, 1 Kgs 15:16), even idolatry (Omri, 1 Kgs 16:25-26) — for Dtr, Jeroboam remains the evil king par excellence. ↩︎
3. Kevin Christensen: Nephi, Wisdom, and the Deuteronomist Reform – The Book of Mormon reflects the wisdom tradition that was prevalent in preexilic Israel but lost through later Deuteronomist reforms ↩︎
4. Hershel Shanks: The Mystery Nechushtan – Why did King Hezekiah of Judah destroy the bronze serpent that Moses had fashioned to protect the Israelites? ↩︎