What’s the meaning of the snake totem?
The snake has long been a symbol of power, mystery, and transformation.
Found in myths, spiritual traditions, and mystical practices across cultures, the snake animal totem carries deep symbolic significance.
Whether viewed as a harbinger of wisdom, healing, or danger, the snake remains a potent archetype in the human psyche.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The historical and mythological story behind the snake
- Snakes in folklore and different cultures
- Snakes in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- The spiritual and metaphysical meaning of snakes
- Lessons from the snake totem
- 5 ways to connect with the snake totem
Snakes in History and Myth
The snake has been revered and feared in equal measure throughout history.
Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Hindus associated the serpent with divinity, knowledge, and the cycle of life and death.
- Ancient Egypt
The snake, particularly the cobra, was sacred to the goddess Wadjet, a protective deity associated with sovereignty and wisdom.
The Uraeus, a rearing cobra symbol, was worn by pharaohs as a sign of divine authority.
Snakes were also linked to the underworld and the afterlife, often appearing in tomb paintings and funerary texts as guardians of sacred knowledge and protectors of the dead.
The serpent Apep (or Apophis) was considered the embodiment of chaos, and daily rituals were performed to ensure his defeat by the sun god Ra. - Greek Mythology
The serpent was linked to healing and transformation, most notably in the form of Asclepius’ staff, which depicted a snake coiling around a rod—now the symbol of modern medicine.
In another myth, the Gorgon Medusa had venomous serpents for hair, symbolizing both danger and protective power.
Snakes were also associated with the god Hermes, whose Caduceus—a staff with two intertwining serpents—represented commerce, balance, and communication. - Hinduism
The snake, or Naga, is seen as both divine and protective.
Nagas are semi-divine serpentine beings that reside in underground realms and are often linked to water and fertility.
The serpent deity Ananta Shesha serves as the cosmic bed of Lord Vishnu, reinforcing the snake’s association with eternity and divine protection.
Kundalini energy, visualized as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine, represents spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
When awakened, this energy travels through the chakras, leading to profound transformation and higher consciousness. - Mesoamerican Beliefs
The feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl was worshipped as a deity of wisdom, creation, and renewal.
In Aztec mythology, Quetzalcoatl was associated with the cycles of time, learning, and the arts.
The Mayans also venerated the snake, with many temples and artifacts depicting serpentine imagery as a representation of celestial knowledge and divine authority.
Folklore and Cultural Significance
Snake symbolism appears across cultures, often reflecting dual aspects of creation and destruction, life and death, and wisdom and deception.
- Native American Traditions
Many tribes see the snake as a creature of transformation and healing.
The Hopi Snake Dance, for example, is a ritual performed to invoke rain and fertility.
The Cherokee regard the snake as a guardian of sacred spaces, while in Southwestern tribes, rattlesnakes are believed to be protectors of the earth’s secrets. - Celtic Mythology
The snake was associated with the earth and its cycles.
Druids believed serpents possessed hidden knowledge of nature’s mysteries.
Some legends claim that St. Patrick drove the snakes out of Ireland, though this is believed to be symbolic of the eradication of Druidic wisdom rather than literal serpents. - Christian Symbolism
The Bible’s depiction of the serpent in the Garden of Eden represents temptation and sin.
However, Moses’ brass serpent in the Old Testament symbolized healing and divine intervention.
The paradoxical nature of the snake in Christian thought—both a deceiver and a healer—reflects its complex spiritual role across traditions. - African Traditions
Snakes are often seen as mediators between the spiritual and physical worlds.
The West African deity Damballa is depicted as a great serpent embodying creation and wisdom.
In many African traditions, snakes are associated with ancestral spirits and the cycle of life and rebirth.
Snakes and Kundalini Energy
One of the most profound representations of the snake can be found in the concept of Kundalini energy, a fundamental aspect of yogic philosophy that describes the dormant spiritual force coiled at the base of the spine.
This energy, often depicted as a serpent, plays a crucial role in spiritual awakening and personal transformation.
Kundalini: The Coiled Serpent Energy
The term Kundalini comes from the Sanskrit word kundal, meaning “coiled” or “circular,” referring to the way this energy is believed to rest at the base of the spine, coiled like a sleeping serpent.
In many yogic and tantric traditions, this serpent represents the immense spiritual potential within every individual, lying dormant until awakened through practices such as meditation, breathwork (pranayama), and yoga.
When Kundalini energy is activated, it rises through the seven chakras (energy centers along the spine), leading to higher states of consciousness and spiritual enlightenment.
As it moves upward, it purifies and balances the body, mind, and spirit, ultimately merging with the Sahasrara chakra, or crown chakra, bringing about a state of blissful unity with the divine.
The Snake as a Symbol of Transformation and Healing
Snakes have long been associated with renewal and transformation, due to their ability to shed their skin.
This act represents rebirth and the shedding of old patterns, just as Kundalini awakening allows individuals to transcend limiting beliefs and past traumas.
The snake’s ability to move between the earth and trees is also symbolic of the journey between the material and spiritual realms.
Furthermore, snakes are often depicted as guardians of sacred knowledge.
In Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva, the deity associated with meditation and transcendence, is depicted with a cobra around his neck, symbolizing the mastery of Kundalini energy.
The Challenges and Rewards of Kundalini Awakening
While Kundalini awakening can lead to profound spiritual growth, it’s also said to be a powerful and sometimes intense experience.
If the energy rises too quickly or without proper guidance, it may cause physical, emotional, or psychological disturbances.
This is why traditional practices emphasize balance, discipline, and self-awareness in spiritual growth.
Ultimately, the snake as a symbol of Kundalini energy represents the awakening of human potential, the journey of self-discovery, and the deep connection between the physical and the divine.
Through the disciplined practice of yoga and meditation, individuals can harness this inner power, achieving wisdom, transformation, and enlightenment.
Snakes in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Snakes have played a vital role in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries, valued for their potent healing properties and deep symbolic significance.
In TCM, different snake species, particularly the Chinese cobra (Naja atra) and the five-step snake (Deinagkistrodon acutus), are believed to possess powerful medicinal properties that aid in treating various ailments.
One of the primary uses of snake-derived medicine is for alleviating joint pain and inflammation.
Snake venom, skin, and meat are often used in herbal formulas to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, paralysis, and chronic pain.
Snake-derived remedies are believed to unblock meridians, improve circulation, and dispel wind and dampness—key pathogenic factors in TCM that contribute to musculoskeletal disorders.
Snake bile is another prized ingredient, often used to support liver function and enhance eyesight.
It is thought to have detoxifying properties, reducing internal heat and improving digestion.
Similarly, snake wine—made by infusing whole snakes in rice wine—is consumed to invigorate the blood, strengthen the immune system, and improve male vitality.
Beyond physical health, snakes hold symbolic importance in Chinese culture.
They are associated with longevity, wisdom, and transformation, making them a revered component in traditional healing practices.
Despite their medicinal benefits, modern regulations have limited snake harvesting due to conservation concerns and ethical considerations.
Today, scientific studies are exploring the bioactive compounds in snake venom, leading to the development of modern pharmaceuticals for pain relief and cardiovascular health.
While TCM still values snake-based remedies, ethical and sustainable alternatives are becoming increasingly significant in contemporary medical research.
Spiritual and Metaphysical Meaning
The snake totem embodies spiritual awakening, transformation, and deep inner knowledge.
People who identify with the snake totem often experience cycles of personal growth and rebirth.
- Transformation
Snakes shed their skin, symbolizing renewal and change. Those with the snake totem often undergo significant personal transformation, experiencing multiple phases of self-reinvention. - Healing and Medicine
The association of snakes with healing is evident in the Caduceus symbol, a staff entwined with two serpents, used in medical contexts. In shamanic traditions, snake venom is sometimes viewed as a powerful transformative substance, capable of both harm and profound healing. - Wisdom and Intuition
The snake’s ability to sense vibrations in the earth and air mirrors heightened perception and intuition in those who carry its energy. Those with the snake totem often possess strong instincts and a deep understanding of unseen forces. - Rebirth and Immortality
Many cultures link snakes with eternal life due to their shedding process, reflecting the soul’s continuous evolution. The Ouroboros, a serpent swallowing its own tail, is a universal symbol of infinite cycles and the interconnectedness of all things.
Lessons from the Snake Totem
The snake totem teaches valuable life lessons, guiding individuals on their spiritual path. Some key teachings include:
Embrace Change
Just as the snake sheds its skin, we must release old patterns and embrace new growth.
Trust Your Intuition
The snake relies on its senses to navigate the world, reminding us to listen to our inner guidance.
Balance Power and Caution
Snakes are powerful yet calculated, teaching us to harness our energy wisely.
Healing Comes from Within
Whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, true healing starts from deep self-awareness and transformation.
5 Ways to Connect with the Snake Totem
If you feel drawn to the energy of the snake totem, here are some ways to deepen your connection:
- Meditation and Visualization
Imagine a serpent coiling around your spine, activating your energy centers and guiding you toward inner transformation. Kundalini meditation is particularly effective in awakening the snake’s spiritual power. - Observing Snakes in Nature
Spending time in environments where snakes live can help you attune to their energy. Watch their movements and behaviors to gain insights into patience, adaptability, and silent wisdom. - Wearing Snake Symbolism
Jewelry, art, or tattoos depicting snakes can serve as reminders of their powerful attributes, encouraging transformation, intuition, and protection. - Dream Work and Journaling
If snakes appear in your dreams, keep a journal to record their messages. Dreaming of snakes often signifies personal growth, healing, or an impending spiritual awakening. - Studying Ancient Traditions
Learn about the myths, deities, and spiritual practices related to snakes in various cultures. Understanding their historical and mystical roles can provide deeper insights into your personal journey with this totem.
The snake animal totem is a profound symbol of transformation, wisdom, and healing.
Whether appearing in dreams, meditation, or daily life, the snake invites us to embrace change, seek inner wisdom, and harness our personal power.
Across cultures and mystical traditions, its presence serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnected cycles of life, death, and rebirth.
Those who resonate with the snake totem often find themselves drawn to deep personal evolution, spiritual growth, and the mysteries of the unseen world.