What Does A Snake Tattoo Mean?
Snakes in Science, Religion, History, and Folklore – Snakes have historically enjoyed a vast array of symbolic meanings that are both positive and negative in nature. Snakes hold symbolic value in a number of ancient cultures and often play parts in ancient stories, legends, mythology, and religious texts.
Throughout history, the snake has been portrayed to be a symbol of evil but it has also been viewed in a positive, virtuous, and good light as well. Evil or good, the snake is universally powerful. Snakes are some of the most misunderstood animals in the world.
Although some are dangerous, the majority are harmless to humans. They usually shy away from human contact. When humans are struck by a snake, it is always in self-defense. A snake is intelligent and knows that patience will pay off when it hunts. They live in darkness and come out to hunt before dusk.
The majority of snake bites occur right before dark. However, there are a variety of snakes that can cause death to humans in one lethal strike. Some, such as the cobra or rattlesnake, can cause death within minutes.
These dangerous snakes can be found from Africa to America. As a result, the snake has been a longtime symbol of danger. Snakes are able to shed their skins. This act can be seen to represent rebirth, transformation, and change. As a tattoo, the snake can similarly represent a brand new start in life.
- One of the most famous stories of a snake comes from the Bible;
- When God created Adam and Eve, he placed them in the Garden of Eden and told them that they could have anything from the garden except the forbidden fruit;
A snake, referred to as the “serpent,” came along and tempted Eve with the fruit. She eventually ate it, and sins began as a result. Because of this, the snake can represent temptation, sin, and evil. The ouroboros (the ancient symbol of a snake biting its own tail) represents the eternal circle, reincarnation, the unending cycle of life and death, and continual renewal.
- The ouroboros eats its own tail, forever;
- This symbol originated in Egypt and represents the circle of life and the cycles of the universe;
- It symbolizes the changing seasons of life and the cyclical nature of the universe;
Historically and across cultures, serpents represent fertility and creative life force. Since they shed their skins, they are apt symbols of transformation, rebirth, healing, and immortality. In ancient mythologies, the snake is often a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, fertility, knowledge, and patience.
Snakes are considered sacred in a number of different cultures, including the Native Americans and Africans. Native American Indians linked the rattlesnake to rain and lighting. It was believed that snakes played a role in creating the planets.
The snake has both masculine and feminine qualities. As a tattoo, it can be worn by both men and women. Snakes are sometimes perceived as evil, but they are also perceived as medicine. If you look at an ambulance, there’s the two snakes on the side of the ambulance. — Nicolas Cage Scroll to Continue .
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What do snakes tattoos symbolize?
In Toronto or Vancouver and Ready to Explore Snake Tattoos Further? – The snake is a timeless symbol of rebirth, temptation, fertility, power and more. It is also a symbol that can be integrated into a great many other designs, with the ability to wrap or coil around any other object you desire.
- Drop by our Downtown Toronto, Mississauga, or Vancouver tattoo shop s;
- Our team of skilled and passionate tattoo artists can help you find the perfect design for your next set of ink;
- From small snake tattoos, to bold full arm wraps, the possibilities are endless, and limited only by the talent of your tattoo artist and imagination;
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What do 2 snake tattoos mean?
Knowledge and Wisdom – 
If you’ve ever been to a hospital or other clinical setting, you might recognize the symbol of Asclepius. This is a rod called the Caduceus, with two snakes intertwined around it. In this context, the snake represents healing, rebirth, and knowledge. In ancient Greece, Asclepius was the son of Coronis and Apollo, and represented the medical and healing arts.
What does a red snake tattoo stand for?
Japanese Snake Tattoo Meanings – Although for many, seeing a snake would undoubtedly be a bad omen, it’s the opposite for Japanese snake tattoos. In fact, snake tattoos to the Japanese mean good luck! They are also viewed as guardians of treasure, so Japanese snake tattoos are often posed with valuable items.
Not only can a Japanese snake tattoo bring you good luck in wealth and protection of your riches, but it can also represent knowledge. It is important to note one of the most important snake motifs, the Battle Royal tattoo, which pairs a snake with eagles, panthers, and other vicious creatures.
These animals are in an intense fight and the snake is one of the central components. When done in a Japanese style, this tattoo is highly colorful and lively. Its meaning is the fact that its wearer can face any challenge and when a battle arises; you will be ready to fight and won’t be a coward when confronted with aggression. Both traditional Irezumi and neo-Japanese tattoos often incorporate animals and mythical creatures such as birds, fish, and dragons. The snake also appears frequently in these intricate designs, usually in coiled or winding motifs similar to Japanese dragons.
Color is a big part of Japanese tattoos , and many designs will show a multicolored snake surrounded by Japanese flower tattoos. In Japanese tattoos, serpents are often linked to another popular figure in the art of Irezumi: The Hannya Mask tattoos.
Because snakes shed their skin, pairing a snake with a Hannya tattoo could be to reinforce those themes of transformation. A Japanese snake tattoo may be a natural choice for someone who has transformed themselves either through health changes, giving up an addition, or perhaps leaving a relationship that was no longer working.
Snake tattoos in the Japanese art style are typically large and bold with deep, saturated colors like black and red. Different colors and symbols may alter the meaning of your snake tattoo. Black – Wisdom, a dignified person.
Red – protection, and strength. White – Goddess Benzaiten and divinity in general. Green – Vital energy and youth. Pink – Femininity, and youth. Yellow – Long-lasting prosperity.
What does snake and flower tattoo mean?
Together, the rose and snake tattoo designs are the ultimate symbol of temptation. They also represent a loss of innocence and beauty.
Why are people getting snake tattoos?
Snakes in Science, Religion, History, and Folklore – Snakes have historically enjoyed a vast array of symbolic meanings that are both positive and negative in nature. Snakes hold symbolic value in a number of ancient cultures and often play parts in ancient stories, legends, mythology, and religious texts.
- Throughout history, the snake has been portrayed to be a symbol of evil but it has also been viewed in a positive, virtuous, and good light as well;
- Evil or good, the snake is universally powerful;
- Snakes are some of the most misunderstood animals in the world;
Although some are dangerous, the majority are harmless to humans. They usually shy away from human contact. When humans are struck by a snake, it is always in self-defense. A snake is intelligent and knows that patience will pay off when it hunts. They live in darkness and come out to hunt before dusk.
- The majority of snake bites occur right before dark;
- However, there are a variety of snakes that can cause death to humans in one lethal strike;
- Some, such as the cobra or rattlesnake, can cause death within minutes;
These dangerous snakes can be found from Africa to America. As a result, the snake has been a longtime symbol of danger. Snakes are able to shed their skins. This act can be seen to represent rebirth, transformation, and change. As a tattoo, the snake can similarly represent a brand new start in life.
- One of the most famous stories of a snake comes from the Bible;
- When God created Adam and Eve, he placed them in the Garden of Eden and told them that they could have anything from the garden except the forbidden fruit;
A snake, referred to as the “serpent,” came along and tempted Eve with the fruit. She eventually ate it, and sins began as a result. Because of this, the snake can represent temptation, sin, and evil. The ouroboros (the ancient symbol of a snake biting its own tail) represents the eternal circle, reincarnation, the unending cycle of life and death, and continual renewal.
The ouroboros eats its own tail, forever. This symbol originated in Egypt and represents the circle of life and the cycles of the universe. It symbolizes the changing seasons of life and the cyclical nature of the universe.
Historically and across cultures, serpents represent fertility and creative life force. Since they shed their skins, they are apt symbols of transformation, rebirth, healing, and immortality. In ancient mythologies, the snake is often a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, fertility, knowledge, and patience.
Snakes are considered sacred in a number of different cultures, including the Native Americans and Africans. Native American Indians linked the rattlesnake to rain and lighting. It was believed that snakes played a role in creating the planets.
The snake has both masculine and feminine qualities. As a tattoo, it can be worn by both men and women. Snakes are sometimes perceived as evil, but they are also perceived as medicine. If you look at an ambulance, there’s the two snakes on the side of the ambulance. — Nicolas Cage Scroll to Continue .
Where do you put a snake tattoo?
Rattlesnake Tattoo Meaning – Known as the ‘rattler is a symbol of potency and fertility. With its strike which is as fast as lightning, it has been associated with rain because rain enters the earth and bringing forth life. The rattle is a symbol of death and transformation since its venom can turn one nearing death to life.
- The cobras, which are the most poisonous snakes, are seen to be the most sacred with cobra seen as the largest venomous snake in the world;
- In India, the cobra is held sacred and a totem for the indigenous people;
It is a symbol of power and many myths tell of it sheltering god Buddha from the sun when he slept. In Egypt, the cobra represented several ancient deities, and Cleopatra is associated with it but it is said that she used the venom of the cobra to end her life. Considered as especially treacherous snakes, vipers have different symbolics attached to it:
- young vipers symbolized children plotting against their parents
- in the 16th century, viper symbolized a common woman ready to sting men with lust
- vipers attack instinctively, as part of their nature, there is no reasoning with them, very deadly, which makes them a common enemy
In many religions across Africa, pythons represent something sacred and revered. In Nigeria, it is also still common to see such beliefs and religions. In those places, killing a python is forbidden and often attracts very serious penalties such as human-like funeral rites for the killed snake. Snake tattoos are a versatile tattoo idea, that depending on its size can be placed on any part of the body.
A cobra found in the tomb of Tutankhamen was believed to be a protector. Small snake tattoos are usually placed on the neck, or even face. Big snake eyes are often seen on biceps or shoulders. Some typically large snake species, like pythons, are used as inspiration to do a whole body snake tattoo, spanning from ribs down to feet.
Japanese snake tattoos are usually done as a part of a sleeve or whole back piece. Its versatility is also proven by the fact that it can be as tiny as a finger tattoo, with one small line representing a serpent. 
To help you with your research for your next tattoo design, we went on a hunt through Instagram to find the best snake tattoo ideas. Take a look below to check them out all:.
Why are snake tattoos so popular?
Actual Snake Tattoo Symbolism – Now that we have the general symbolism and assumption out of our way, let’s talk about the actual snake tattoo symbolism and meaning. As you may know, certain things are always differently interpreted depending on the culture, part of the world, historical context, and so much more. Every culture has a unique outlook and perception, even when it comes to snakes For example;
- In African cultures, snakes are seen as a symbol of wisdom. People consider snakes to be protectors and guardians of sacred places and temples. Historically, snakes were seen as powerful protectors of gods and goddesses, as they did in ancient Egypt.
- In Greek mythology, snakes were seen as symbols of health wealth and medicine. That is why the universal symbol of healthcare organizations around the world depicts a snake. This is the most common symbol and logo of healthcare facilities, universities, pharmaceutical branches, and so much more.
- In Buddhism and Hinduism, snake or Naga represents a deity, rebirth, death, and mortality. It is generally tied with the symbolism of being transformed and reborn, thanks to the snakes’ ability to shed the old skin and have brand new skin.
- In the Native American culture, snakes are seen as symbols of life and rebirth. However, the symbolism of snakes differs from one tribe to the other. That is how we have the Pueblo tribe and their view of snakes and symbols of fertility, and the Ojibwa culture where the snake is seen as a symbol of healing, rebirth, and transformation.
Saved Tattoo @ziv_tattooer As you can see, depending on the culture, a snake can have an array of different symbolism either representing something positive or negative. Generally, the symbolism revolves around rebirth, renewal, and transformation because of the snake’s ability to shed its own skin, heal it and have it appear brand new. Other snake meaning and interpretation includes;
- Snakes often symbolize the cycle of life. In some cultures, like the African Dahomeyen culture, or Norse mythology, snakes are often depicted as biting their own tails or being wrapped around themselves.
- Because of the snake’s ability to shed and heal its own skin, appearing new every time, snakes often symbolize immortality as well.
- Because snakes are also seen as symbols of fertility and prosperity, they are also often tied to depictions of Mother Earth or are seen as the humans’ direct connection to Mother Earth.
Also Read: 100+ Most Popular Tattoo Meanings Guide: Creatures (Not Just Animals) Are the Most Popular.
What compliments a snake tattoo?
Snake and Rose Tattoo Roses are a very traditional and universally popular tattoo design because of their association with love; when combined with a snake, the meaning changes to one of romantic temptation and overwhelming passion. A Gothic or traditional art style would pair well with the snake-and-rose design.
What does a snake mean in the Bible?
“Great dragon” redirects here. Not to be confused with Velikiy Drakon. Serpents ( Hebrew : נָחָשׁ , romanized : nāḥāš ) are referred to in both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. The symbol of a serpent or snake played important roles in the religious traditions and cultural life of Ancient Greece , Egypt , Mesopotamia , and Canaan.
[1] The serpent was a symbol of evil power and chaos from the underworld as well as a symbol of fertility, life, healing, and rebirth. [2] Nāḥāš ( נחש ), Hebrew for “snake”, is also associated with divination , including the verb form meaning “to practice divination or fortune-telling”.
Nāḥāš occurs in the Torah to identify the serpent in the Garden of Eden. Throughout the Hebrew Bible , it is also used in conjunction with seraph to describe vicious serpents in the wilderness. The tannin , a dragon monster, also occurs throughout the Hebrew Bible.
In the Book of Exodus , the staves of Moses and Aaron are turned into serpents, a nāḥāš for Moses, a tannin for Aaron. In the New Testament, the Book of Revelation makes use of ancient serpent and the Dragon several times to identify Satan or the Devil [3] ( Revelation 12:9 ; 20:2 ).
The serpent is most often identified with the hubristic Satan, and sometimes with Lilith. [3] The narrative of the Garden of Eden and the fall of humankind constitute a mythological tradition shared by all the Abrahamic religions , [3] [4] [5] [6] with a presentation more or less symbolic of Judeo-Christian morals and religious beliefs, [3] [4] [7] which had an overwhelming impact on human sexuality , gender roles , and sex differences both in the Western and Islamic civilizations.
- [3] In mainstream (Nicene) Christianity , the doctrine of the Fall is closely related to that of original sin or ancestral sin;
- [8] Unlike Christianity, the other major Abrahamic religions, Judaism and Islam , do not have a concept of “original sin”, and instead have developed varying other interpretations of the Eden narrative;
[3] [5] [8] [9] [10] [11].
What does a rose with a snake tattoo mean?
Snake tattoos are badass and rose tattoos are beautiful , and when they’re put together they’re even better. The rebel intensity of snake is balanced by the delicate simplicity of the rose to create a bold yet dignified piece of body art. Snake and rose tattoos are traditional tattoos but can be adopted into a number of different styles, dotwork, neo-traditional, realistic etc.
What’s the meaning of a rose and snake tattoo? People see it as a symbol for love or passion that becomes so strong that it turns to temptation and the loss of innocence. The snake is fierce and determined, the rose is beautiful and elegant – together they are practically unstoppable! With simple yet bold designs, snake rose tattoos are tattoos that offer many possibilities for variation and personalization.
Two classic tattoo images create one awesome new design. So even if it’s made out of two of the most popular tattoo motifs ever, you can be sure to make it your very own! Let these 15 tattoos inspire you If you’re thinking of your own snake and rose tattoo!! Be sure to hit up Tattoodo’s open booking feature if you want your own custom snake rose design made just for you!!.
What does a cobra tattoo mean?
Cobra Tattoo Symbolism – The cobra tattoo symbolizes much of what the cobra itself symbolizes. First, the cobra represents speed and grace as it is a cunning hunter and when it needs to, can reach high speeds. The cobra tattoo is a common one because of the imagery of the cobra.
- This animal has many positive traits that are thought of when getting the cobra tattoo;
- The cobra tattoo might symbolize wisdom, strength, protection, unpredictability, intuitiveness and sometimes it represents evil ways;
In Thailand, one can get a cobra tattoos in a tattooing festival that will protect from evil spirits. These will be tattooed by monks. In Southeast Asia, the cobra is a symbol of fertility and is also known as a messenger of the gods.
What does a 3 headed snake mean?
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from. The three-headed serpent is a powerful symbol that dates back centuries, representing both sin and deceit (in the Bible), as well as intimidation and power (in ancient Greece).
What does a knife through a snake mean?
Snake and Dagger Tattoos – These tattoos generally represent bravery, triumph, or overcoming demons or obstacles—especially if the dagger or sword is stabbing the snake. If a snake is wrapping around a dagger, this is usually a reference to the Roman god Mercury.
What does snake Eyes tattoo mean?
The snake eyes tattoo has many meanings. The snake eyes tattoo may symbolize that you are dangerously charismatic and use your charms to get what you want out of other people, and in life. It can also represent your anti-authoritarian bent, if you are the type who likes to bend the rules, if not break them.
- Another and older meaning dating back to the 1920s is throwing a double of pips, or ones, with a pair of dice;
- This tattoo design can be matched with almost any other imagery you like, to enhance the meaning, but it typically paired with a pair of dice with each die showing a one;
However most frequently the design appears standalone, with just the two powerful and devious and knowing eyes staring back at whomever gazes upon them. This tattoo design goes back to ancient Rome where throwing a pair of snake eyes with the dice meant that the thrower would soon encounter either good fortune or evil, depending on the context.
What does the snake tattoo mean in Harry Potter?
Appearance – ” Then he realised that it was a colossal skull, composed of what looked like emerald stars, with a serpent protruding from its mouth like a tongue. As they watched, it rose higher and higher, blazing in a haze of greenish smoke, etched against the black sky like a new constellation. ” — Description of the Dark Mark [src] 
The appearance of the Dark Mark symbol The Dark Mark appeared as a glittering green skull with a snake protruding from its mouth. [1] This might have been inspired by the hiding place of the Basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets. When summoned, the basilisk would emerge from the mouth of the statue of Salazar Slytherin. The serpent was also the symbol of Slytherin house, and thus appropriate to be used by the Heir of Slytherin.
- [2] The symbol might also have been related to Lord Voldemort being a Parselmouth , a gift he thought made him unlike the rest of the wizarding world;
- The Dark Mark on the forearm was black, while the Dark Mark conjured by Morsmordre was green; this was most likely for more contrast with each respective background as a black Dark Mark would be hard to see in the night sky;
It was also said that the Dark Mark represented immortality and power. [1] The Dark Mark in the sky and on the Death Eaters’ arms were different in appearance. The one in the sky was plainly a skull with a snake coming out straight out of its mouth, [1] while the brand on a Death Eater’s arm was much more intricate and detailed, the snake being much longer and winding.
What does snake tattoo go with?
Roses are a very traditional and universally popular tattoo design because of their association with love; when combined with a snake, the meaning changes to one of romantic temptation and overwhelming passion. A Gothic or traditional art style would pair well with the snake-and-rose design.
What does a 3 headed snake mean?
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from. The three-headed serpent is a powerful symbol that dates back centuries, representing both sin and deceit (in the Bible), as well as intimidation and power (in ancient Greece).
What does a snake mean in Christianity?
“Great dragon” redirects here. Not to be confused with Velikiy Drakon. Serpents ( Hebrew : נָחָשׁ , romanized : nāḥāš ) are referred to in both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. The symbol of a serpent or snake played important roles in the religious traditions and cultural life of Ancient Greece , Egypt , Mesopotamia , and Canaan.
[1] The serpent was a symbol of evil power and chaos from the underworld as well as a symbol of fertility, life, healing, and rebirth. [2] Nāḥāš ( נחש ), Hebrew for “snake”, is also associated with divination , including the verb form meaning “to practice divination or fortune-telling”.
Nāḥāš occurs in the Torah to identify the serpent in the Garden of Eden. Throughout the Hebrew Bible , it is also used in conjunction with seraph to describe vicious serpents in the wilderness. The tannin , a dragon monster, also occurs throughout the Hebrew Bible.
- In the Book of Exodus , the staves of Moses and Aaron are turned into serpents, a nāḥāš for Moses, a tannin for Aaron;
- In the New Testament, the Book of Revelation makes use of ancient serpent and the Dragon several times to identify Satan or the Devil [3] ( Revelation 12:9 ; 20:2 );
The serpent is most often identified with the hubristic Satan, and sometimes with Lilith. [3] The narrative of the Garden of Eden and the fall of humankind constitute a mythological tradition shared by all the Abrahamic religions , [3] [4] [5] [6] with a presentation more or less symbolic of Judeo-Christian morals and religious beliefs, [3] [4] [7] which had an overwhelming impact on human sexuality , gender roles , and sex differences both in the Western and Islamic civilizations.
[3] In mainstream (Nicene) Christianity , the doctrine of the Fall is closely related to that of original sin or ancestral sin. [8] Unlike Christianity, the other major Abrahamic religions, Judaism and Islam , do not have a concept of “original sin”, and instead have developed varying other interpretations of the Eden narrative.
[3] [5] [8] [9] [10] [11].
Is it OK to get a yakuza tattoo?
Are Tattoos Illegal in Japan? – While some view tattoos as an art form, the Japanese government, on the other hand, does not. Although they may not be illegal, tattoos are often associated with the Yakuza, a Japanese gang that covers their entire body with tattoos.
