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A definition of the the word Serpent The English word Serpent has been derived from the Latin serpens with the basic root of SRP, which through sound shifts within the Indo-European language, also incorporates SRB, SRF, SRPH, and SRV. For example the following words in English with this root: SeRVe – to perform a duty. SuRVive – to outlive; have a long life. SuRVey – to examine, or dignose. SyRuP – a term used in early medicine. SuRPlice – a white covering, used in Druid and Christian ceremonies, cognate with the white overall used in hospitals. The closest association is with SERAPH, one of a group of angels known in plural as SERAPHIM. The Hebrew word rapha meant healer, surgeon or doctor. The term Ser (Sir) meant a higher being or guardian angel; hence a reasonable deduction that the SERAPHIM were a corps of medical angels. The Egyptian god SERAPHIS had medical associations; his temple at Memphis which contained a hospital, was called a SERAPEUM. Additionally, SERAPION was an eminent physician of Alexandria in the third century A.D., a name derived from his profession. It must
be acknowledged that the term SERPENT had wider associations
with wisdom and wise men or women.
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