Why are there so many snakes in mythology?

In most cultures, snakes were symbols of healing and transformation, but in some cultures snakes were fertility symbols. The Great Goddess often had snakes as her familiars—sometimes twining around her sacred staff, as in ancient Crete—and they were worshipped as guardians of her mysteries of birth and regeneration.

Why did ancient people worship snakes?

Snake worship is devotion to serpent deities. The tradition is present in several ancient cultures, particularly in religion and mythology, where snakes were seen as the holders of knowledge, strength, and renewal.

What do snakes symbolize in Greek mythology?

Serpents symbolized fertility, but besides Dionysus, they are also associated with austere deities such as Artemis, Athena and later Cybele. But also Zeus himself (as Zeus Filios, Zeus Meilichios, or as Agathos Daimon) is often depicted with a snake next to him.

What does the serpent represent in ancient times?

But in other cultures, as far-flung as ancient Greece and Egypt and indigenous North America, snakes symbolize fertility, rebirth, renewal and even immortality. The ouroboros, the ancient symbol of eternity that was famously depicted on King Tut’s tomb in the 14th century B.C., is a serpent devouring its own tail.

What does a snake symbolize in literature?

Historically, serpents and snakes represent fertility or a creative life force. As snakes shed their skin through sloughing, they are symbols of rebirth, transformation, immortality, and healing. According to some interpretations of the Midrash, the serpent represents sexual passion.

Why are snakes seen as evil in modern Western literature?

The use of serpents as symbols of death, evil, or treachery may be related to the fact that some of them are poisonous and dangerous. Satan and other devils have frequently been portrayed as snakes, as in the biblical story of Eden where a sly serpent tempts Eve and Adam into disobeying God.

What do snakes symbolize in ancient Egypt?

Since the ancient Egyptians understood that snakes could be dangerous and helpful at the same time, it makes sense that they used them to represent both Apophis, his enemy, and Mehen, his ally. Snakes were a constant danger in ancient Egypt, especially to children.

Are snakes wise?

Serpents are considered to be wise because they evoke fear and respect in human beings. Human beings do not fear and respect many animals but they definitely fear and respect snakes.

Why are snakes considered wise?

What do snakes mean in dreams spiritually?

While they are generally portrayed as evil in the Bible, some cultures consider them to be positive. They think that dreaming about snakes indicates a new start in life and that you will gain wisdom. Other cultures believe that if you dream about a snake, there is someone in your circle who is trying to harm you.