“At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.” (Proverbs 23:32)

In Proverbs 23:29-35 we find the writer describing the sin and sorrow of those who use strong drink. In verse 32 he describes the effects of alcohol as biting like a serpent and stinging like adder (viper, NASV).

Modern medicine has learned that alcohol is both a hemotoxin and a neurotoxin.  A hemotoxin is “a toxin, as cobra venom, that causes a hemolytic reaction (the destruction of blood cells, L.B.)” (Dictionary.com). A neurotoxin is “a neurotoxic (disrupts the activity of nerve cells, L.B.) substance, as rattlesnake venom or the poison of a black widow spider…” (Dictionary.com)

So, the effects of alcohol are like getting bit by a cobra and a rattlesnake.  The alcohol destroys both blood and nerve cells.

“Here he graphically describes its end result: It bites like a serpent and stings like an adder! The results of any drinking bout that leads to drunkenness include redness of eyes, plus the effects of a hangover. The results of a life of such bouts is the intense craving for the effects of alcohol, in many cases the effects of “DTs,” and often times an early death. Some of the by-products of drunkenness are: lives which are destroyed in accidents caused by drunk driving; economic hardships on the family of the drinker; lost jobs and wages; abuse of family members; destroyed health and happiness.

But the worst consequence is the lost soul of the drunkard.  1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Gal. 5:19-21”. (Bob Winton) (Emphasis added)