How do you feel about snakes? 🐍
In 2025, hundreds of millions of people around the world will be celebrating the Year of the Snake. And they might see things differently.
Snakes have slithered their way into myths and legends across cultures, often embodying powerful symbols.
The Serpent in the Garden 🌳
In the Christian tradition, the most familiar serpent appears in the biblical story of Adam and Eve. Tempted by Satan in the form of a snake, they eat fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. As a result, God banishes them from the Garden of Eden and curses the snake. This serpent is often seen as a symbol of evil—but also of knowledge.
Nüwa: The Creator Goddess 🐉
Meanwhile, in Chinese mythology, Nüwa, a snake with a woman's head, is credited with creating humanity. According to legend, Nüwa shaped the first humans from yellow clay. As she grew tired, she dipped a rope into the mud and swung it around. The blobs that fell became common people, while the handcrafted figures became the nobility.
Symbols of Immortality and Renewal ♾️
Across different cultures, snakes are symbols of immortality and renewal. They've been observed biting their own tails to form a circle, known as the Ouroboros, representing the endless cycle of life and death. This symbolism appears in Egyptian, Hindu, and Norse mythologies.
Snakes and Medicine ⚕️
Curiously, snakes are also closely linked to medicine. The ancient Greek god of medicine, Asclepius, is often depicted with a staff entwined by a serpent—a symbol still seen in medical logos today.
A Fresh Perspective 🧐
From the sly serpent in the Garden of Eden to the mystical creator Nüwa, snakes have been the stars of stories long before Hollywood made them cool. Think about Nagini in Harry Potter or Kaa in The Jungle Book—they continue to capture our imagination!
So, whatever you felt about snakes before, be ready to see them in a new light.
Get ready to embrace the Year of the Snake! 🎉
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
