The meaning of a snake tattoo is something you should know if you have made the decision to tattoo this incredible reptile on your skin. Today, it is common to see people getting tattoos of snakes in various shapes and colors. However, very few know what is the real meaning behind these “tattoos” that for some are beautiful and for others terrifying.
So knowing the meaning of a snake tattoo can help the person to know a story that they did not know until now. The meaning of a snake in a tattoo usually varies, since it will depend on the specimen of the reptile and if there are other elements that complete the tattoo.
What do snake tattoos mean?
Snakes have always been one of the animals most feared by man, especially cobras and rattlesnakes. In fact, it can be said that it is impossible to maintain a middle ground when it comes to these reptiles. That is, either you feel an indescribable fear every time you see them or you simply admire them.
Since ancient times, snakes have been closely linked to man, especially with respect to different cultures. It is a reptile that has a great symbolic load that remains even today. This being one of the reasons why, today, many people decide to tattoo a snake on their skin.
Now, the meaning of a snake tattoo is not just one, since it is an animal linked to various cultures, especially in ancient times. However, we will show you some of the most common meanings of this type of tattoo so that you keep it in mind, before translating it into your skin.
Here is a list of snake tattoo meanings:
- Temptation.
- Renaissance.
- Revenge.
- Cunning.
- Eternity.
- Nobility.
- Balance.
- Protection.
- Healing.
- Transformation.
- hidden knowledge.
- Rejuvenation.
- Divinity.
- Intellect.
- sexual energy.
- Fertility.
One of the most common characteristics in snakes is that they shed their skin every year. For many cultures, this particularity is seen as a power of rejuvenation, healing, healing and eternity. A species that leaves behind its old skin to give way to a completely young and healthy one, being the most common snake tattoo meaning for some people.
On the other hand, it is important to keep in mind that depending on the design, the meaning of a snake tattoo can be different. In this sense, a design in which two intertwined snakes are seen, means that there is a connection between two spiritual forces. It can also mean a union with a divine power and even the unification of the opposite.
The meaning of a snake tattoo can vary greatly depending on certain parameters, such as culture, for example. In some cases, they represent concepts that may not be to everyone’s liking, so it is important to know them before getting the tattoo.
What is the meaning of a snake tattoo according to the culture?
As mentioned above, there are various cultures where snakes are worshiped. Just by seeing one of these animals, one could induce a trance or be completely hypnotized. In addition, the poison of these creatures can kill quickly, although it can also heal.
Snakes are animals that transmit a great number of sensations, disgust and fear for some, admiration and respect for others. The meaning of a snake tattoo, according to different cultures, is as follows:
Egyptians
For the Egyptians, the image of a snake was related to wealth, power and above all, knowledge. In fact, the goddess of Lower Egypt, Wadjet, was represented by a cobra. The pharaohs revered the goddess as a source of invincibility.
greeks
In the case of Greek mythology, the snake symbolized the ability to heal, wisdom and renewal, this is because this reptile shed its skin every year.
Japanese
In Japanese culture, these animals were the protectors of the treasure, in addition, they represented rebirth and especially the changing cycles of life.
Scandinavians
According to Norse mythology, the serpent was a huge, scale-covered monster known as Jormungandr. A beast that had the ability to cause the world to come to an end.
Christians
Lastly, in Christian history, it was the serpent that tempted both Adam and Eve into God’s paradise. This animal is directly represented with darkness and evil.
What is the meaning of a snake tattoo when adding other elements?
Nowadays, the different interpretations of snake tattoos are mainly based on the culture around the world. The tattoo can express positive messages such as wisdom, peace, healing, but it can also convey temptation and deception.
Likewise, the meaning of a snake tattoo varies depending on the elements that are added to the tattoo. Some of the snake tattoos with additional details are the following:
Eagle with snake tattoo
It is a very popular tattoo in men, although sometimes, some women tend to tattoo it too. The serpent and eagle meaning refers to an eternal confrontation between good and evil. While the eagle symbolizes the moral law, strength of the spirit and nobility, the snake is the representation of betrayal, deceit and the lowest passions.
Snake tattoo with flowers
When flowers are added to the snake tattoo, the meaning changes drastically when compared to the previous one. This type of tattoo represents the immortality of the soul and harmony with everything around it.
For example, in Buddhism, these images are a clear reference to the search for enlightenment of the spirit, while in Japanese, it goes more towards a sign of purity. While the Indians have a strong belief that a snake surrounded by flowers represents fertility in women.
Similarly, the meaning changes when it comes to a specific flower, such as peonies. If a tattoo shows this kind of flower surrounding a snake, then it means that nature is renewing itself and that life is a cycle.
Likewise, when a snake tattoo is accompanied by a rose, its meaning goes through temptation, sin and passion. People who wear this type of tattoos show that they have an enormous desire to overcome all their weaknesses. Although he also openly expresses certain negative traits that focus mainly on character.
In the case of women, there is another meaning of snake tattoo when roses are added around it. It symbolizes that the girl has lost her innocence and even the attractiveness that she once had. If the tattoo is on her hand, it indicates that the woman sees herself as cold-hearted.
Snake biting its own tail tattoo
This type of tattoo is the mystical representation of what is known as “ouroboros” which, in turn, symbolizes the eternal cycle of the universe. After life comes to an end comes death, after destruction comes the moment of renewal, these are cycles that never end.
Snake and sword tattoo
Another of the most popular snake tattoos is the combination of this animal wrapped in a dagger or sword. The snake meaning has to do with constancy, while the sword symbolizes battle or fight.
Snake and moon tattoo
It has also become quite common to see people with snake tattoos with the moon, its meaning comes from Greek mythology. The image is linked to a lunar deity and normally, it is the girls who wear this type of tattoo on their bodies. It signifies wisdom, intellect and the hidden knowledge hidden within.
Snake with skull tattoo
Like the previous case, tattoos of this type are usually seen very often, especially in men. Its meaning is that we must remember that life is really fragile and short, it also represents a destiny that cannot be avoided and the mortality of human beings.
Keep in mind that today there are infinite tattoo designs in which the snake is the protagonist. Its meaning can vary according to the gender of the person and the added elements. As well as, the part of the body chosen to tattoo, be it the arms, back, legs, abdomen and any other place, this could be decisive in the meaning of the snake tattoo.
Sources: Women’s Journal, The You.