What is a brood of vipers?

The phrase "brood of vipers" is often used to describe a group of venomous individuals, particularly those who are deceitful or morally corrupt. It originates from The Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew, where John the Baptist uses it to criticize religious leaders for their hypocrisy. The imagery suggests that, like snakes, such individuals are dangerous and should be treated with caution. In modern usage, it can refer to any group perceived as malevolent or treacherous.