Asp

Asp (Gr. Aspis), a name loosely applied (1) to the Vipera Aspis of Southern Europe, and other species of Vipera. (2) Cleopatra's asp, to which allu- sion is so often made, was most probably the small Vipera hasselquistii or horned viper. (3) It is equally impossible and unnecessary to determine with certainty the exact significance of the biblical word 'asp.' Several species of vipers occur in Palestine, but the context would in some cases suggest the Egyptian juggler's snake, Naja haje. (4) Another form, which is nearly allied to the Indian cobra da capello (Naja tripudians), is, like the latter, very venomous, and has also the habit of dilating the loose skin of its neck. It has been long known, and seems to be often referred to under the titles aspis, aspic, and asp.