Are Pentecostal Snake Handlers?
The short answer is: we don’t know.
What we do know is that there is no explicit mention of snake handling in the Bible. However there are a few verses that could be interpreted as references to the practice.
One verse in particular from the book of Mark has led many people to believe that Pentecostals engage in snake handling as part of their worship:
“These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people and they will get well.” (Mark 16:17-18 NIV)
This verse is often cited as proof that Pentecostals handle snakes as part of their worship. However there is no mention of Pentecostals or snake handling in the context of this verse. It is simply a list of signs that will accompany believers.
So while we cannot say definitively whether or not Pentecostals engage in snake handling we do know that there is no clear evidence of it in the Bible.
What is a pentecostal snake handler?
A pentecostal snake handler is someone who believes that they can handle poisonous snakes as a form of religious practice.
What are the origins of pentecostal snake handling?
The origins of pentecostal snake handling can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States.
How does a pentecostal snake handler conduct a service?
A pentecostal snake handler will often times bring snakes into their church services and handle them as part of their worship.
What are the dangers of pentecostal snake handling?
The dangers of pentecostal snake handling include the risk of being bitten by a snake and suffering from serious injuries or death.
Is pentecostal snake handling legal?
In some states in the United States pentecostal snake handling is legal.
However in other states it is considered to be illegal.
How many churches practice pentecostal snake handling?
There are estimated to be around 200 churches in the United States that practice pentecostal snake handling.
What is the primary focus of pentecostal snake handlers?
The primary focus of pentecostal snake handlers is to provide a form of religious worship that is based on their belief that they can handle poisonous snakes.
What is the most common snake used in pentecostal snake handling?
The most common snake used in pentecostal snake handling is the timber rattlesnake.
What is the primary reason that pentecostal snake handlers handle snakes?
The primary reason that pentecostal snake handlers handle snakes is to demonstrate their faith and to show their dedication to God.
What are some of the risks associated with handling snakes?
Some of the risks associated with handling snakes include the risk of being bitten suffering from an allergic reaction and contracting a disease.
How often do pentecostal snake handlers conduct services?
Pentecostal snake handlers will typically conduct services on a weekly basis.
What is the age limit for pentecostal snake handlers?
There is no age limit for pentecostal snake handlers.
Is there a dress code for pentecostal snake handlers?
There is no specific dress code for pentecostal snake handlers.
What type of snakes are typically used in pentecostal snake handling?
The types of snakes that are typically used in pentecostal snake handling include rattlesnakes copperheads and cottonmouths.
What are the consequences of being bitten by a snake?
The consequences of being bitten by a snake can include severe pain swelling tissue damage and potentially death.
