Snakes are reptiles that are among the most efficient and agile predators on the planet. People don't like snakes because they have deadly snake venom, kill people in disgusting ways and are ruthless. But snakes are revered and praised by people in many different cultures and civilizations.
Snakes are revered for a number of reasons, including their ability to kill without mercy. They are also considered to be great, royal, and clever. They had a lot of symbolism due to their complex symbolism and beautiful appearance, which we will discuss in more detail in this article.
To find a snake tattoo, you must have thought about the actual meaning of a snake tattoo before starting your search. They can be found in different sizes and on different parts of the body, and often have a variety of different meanings.
As we go through this section, we're going to talk about what these symbols mean and how they can help you make the perfect snake tattoo that you'll love!
What is the meaning behind the snake tattoo?
When a snake enters your dream, it is said that your consciousness is trying to communicate with you and is warning you to be on your guard and be strong. However, the meaning of snakes varies greatly from culture to culture. For some it is far more important than for others. Different civilizations have associated snakes with good and bad intentions in a variety of ways. Nonetheless, good intentions prevailed.
If you are looking for a snake tattoo to embellish your legs, sides, arms or back, the following things can be represented by one:
Performance
One of the strongest symbolisms associated with snakes is that of power. Power doesn't have to be negative. Snakes play an important role in nature's food chain and many creatures, especially rodents, fear them. Many snakes see other snakes as enemies in order to fear one another.
To show that you are succeeding in your life, a snake tattoo is the most effective in showing it. Snakes can also represent individuals who have firm and determined thinking and are passionate about sports, the gym, exercise and other sporting activities.
Danger
As you may know, some snakes are completely harmless while others are venomous, agile, and ferocious. They are ruthless when it comes to killing their prey and are feared by large numbers of animals and humans. With this in mind, a fast, agile, and venomous snake can pose a serious threat to anyone unprepared and in the company of a large, hungry, or irritable snake, as seen in the video above.
As noted by the editor, the difference between venomous and non-venomous snakes should be understood. Nonvenomous snakes are notable for having tiny, sharp teeth rather than fangs, which are the source of the venom in venomous snakes. Also, their color pattern may not be as striking as venomous snakes.
On the other hand, venomous snakes have huge fangs that they use to inject venom into their victims. In addition, they feature colorful patterns that are easy to distinguish. Non-venomous snakes, on the other hand, don't pay much attention to patterns, instead focusing on a single color.
rebirth
Numerous animals, including those that rose from the ashes or spent long periods as larvae before becoming butterflies, are known to support the concepts of rebirth and metamorphosis, which are often depicted as tattoos.
Depending on their size, snakes go through a similar process at least once a year. They shed their skin, removing the dead skin and revealing fresh and youthful skin beneath the surface. This can show how a person's personality changes and grows after a bad experience in life.
Everyone goes through a horrible scenario at least once in their life, whether it's an illness, a breakup, losing a job, or the death of a loved one. You are forced to come out stronger each time because of the experience. The lost skin alludes to a possible meaning in such a scenario. It gives individuals who have the tattoo hope that better days are on the horizon as long as they focus on improving themselves.
The snake tattoo can also be seen as a sign of recovery. Although snake venom can be dangerous, many medical institutions and alternative medicine groups are still researching and testing it with a view to developing new and better medicines in the future.
Snake venoms have been used medicinally for hundreds if not thousands of years, with most of them being associated with traditional Chinese medicine. The fact that less than 1% of snake venom has been sequenced and described for therapeutic use suggests that there may be many more hidden treasures waiting to be discovered and used for medicinal purposes.
enticement
Stories of serpents seem insignificant in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament and especially in the story told from the beginning of time. This is the story of Adam and Eve and the apple of Eden. Disguised as a snake, the devil persuaded Eve to eat the fruit that God had forbidden.
Since then, both apples and snakes have represented temptation on several occasions. Imagine the following scenario: you feel you are prone to temptation on a regular basis and you want to commemorate this fact with a tattoo. In this case, a snake would be an appropriate choice, especially in combination with the apple emblem.
Snakes are also associated with sin according to a similar symbology.
Schutz
Some cultures have the notion that snakes are both protective and benevolent. According to certain legends, every house houses a small green or white snake hiding on the porch, in the garden or in the basement. Some family members remember seeing them, and then they disappear without a trace.
For those who believe in such things, a snake tattoo can signify the protection of your family as well as the safety of your loved ones. I think it's a fantastic idea especially if you are interested in getting a massive tattoo.
Also read:100+ Amazing Horse Tattoo Designs
fertility
Snakes are revered in many cultures as a symbol of fertility. They are often placed on the body of pregnant women or women who are having trouble conceiving or conceiving naturally.
Snakes have a phallic shape that could be viewed as a fertility symbol. Against this background, the triangle represents the sign of life energy. As a tattoo, the snake can also be a symbol of fertility and the process of parenthood.
Reincarnation
Have you ever heard of the mythical creature known as the Ouroboros? It is an ancient depiction of a snake consuming its tail. Although numerous historical records state that the fabled monster is a dragon, many historians believe it is a giant serpent. It has long meant, and still does, the cycle of life and reincarnation that occurs after death. It can also mean that your attitude towards life changes.
Snakes are often considered a medical emblem due to the healing properties of their venom. A large number of pharmaceutical companies have used the snake as their emblem.
wisdom
Snakes are commonly sought after by monarchs, emperors, warriors and princes in various cultural and mythical stories and legends. Snakes are said to be able to impart guidance or knowledge. This symbol represents a representation of knowledge, composition and understanding.
What do snakes represent in history and culture? What do snakes represent in mythology?
Snakes have a long and illustrious history ranging from Hinduism to the Bible to Norse culture and history. Here are some of the most important historical stories about snakes and how they have influenced many different cultures over time.
Snakes in Ancient China
Snakes are held in high regard in China primarily because their venom has been used medicinally for a very long time. Snakes are believed to live long while ensuring bountiful harvests and being the ultimate symbol of fertility.
There are numerous cultural remnants in China, especially in the southwest and southeast. Snakes were also considered symbols of the earth. They were considered magnificent and godlike in that they were included as a sign in the Chinese horoscope.
In addition, snakes had a close association with the god Fu Xi and Nu Wa, the snake goddess, both of whom were Chinese. They appear in the tales of the Han Dynasty.
On the other hand, because of the ancient works of art made of brick and stone, many people believed that these two were the gods and goddesses of the sun and the moon.
snakes in the bible
This film shows the devil disguised as a snake tricking Adam and Eve into eating the forbidden fruit. This apple can change how the rest of society perceives you. This story changed the way women were perceived in both Judaism and Christianity, and as a result, snakes were shown to be symbols of temptation and immorality.
Snakes in Norse mythology
Snakes also played an important role in Norse mythology. The Midgard Serpent, also known as the Sea Serpent or simply Jörmungandr, is a mythological serpent from the realm of Midgard. Another legend says that the snake was also mentioned in this story. This meant Ragnorok was finished, which was also a sign of when the snake would be finished.
It was the descendant of the giantess Angrboda and the god Loki. According to Norse mythology, Odin kidnapped Loki's offspring, the wolves Fenrir, Hel, and Jörmungandr, and raised them as his own. He threw her into the abyss surrounding the city of Midgard.
According to Norse legend, Thor, son of Odin, defeated the serpent of Midgard.
Snakes in Native American cultures
Snakes feature in a variety of Native American artwork, including mural, stone, and sand paintings. Snakes were important to Native Americans, but their meaning changed depending on which tribe you were with at the time.
Snakes were considered a symbol of power and fertility in the Pueblo Indian tribe. The Ojibwa tribe, on the other hand, viewed snakes as a sign of healing and rebirth because snakes shed skin, making this clear.
13 Best Snake Tattoo Designs to Inspire You
Many people who try to create snake tattoos are guided by the shape of the snake and the origin of the snake from which it emerges. However, here is a list of general ideas and more textures and patterns to use as a guide when choosing your final design.
1. Skull of a snake tattoo
In a previous post, we touched on how snakes can represent both danger and seduction. Pirates were often identified by skull-like symbols, and this combination of a skull and a snake may allude to the potentially deadly nature of snake venom. It could also have deeper and more sinister connotations. No matter the orientation, it's a fantastic print no matter the size.
2. Medusa tattoo forearm of women
Medusa is one of the most well-known and well-known mythical creatures, especially those who have read the Percy Jackson series. She was cursed and had snakes on her head that could turn anyone who came in contact with them to stone. When it came to designing a snake-themed tattoo, the petrifying power of the cursed Medusa provided beautiful inspiration. What are your thoughts?
3. Devil Cupid with Snake Tattoo
Consider the possibility of incorporating some gothic motifs into your tattoo. Therefore, this gothic cupid tattooed himself surrounded by a snake could serve as an excellent tattoo illustration for a gothic sleeve tattoo. Despite this, we believe that it is possible to feel comfortable anywhere. You can also apply this concept when creating a tattoo inspired by the Apple of Eden. Cupid wields a trident and seems a bit notorious. Not everyone will like it, but it is a beautiful concept for gothic tattoos.
4. Abstract Snake Tattoo
Although this tattoo is not attractive to everyone, it has a lot of meaning and abstract elements. One hand is stretched out as if helping the other, with a snake coiled around her fingers and wrist as if to help. This could represent a fake or unhealthy friendship or love relationship. Plus, it could also indicate that not everyone is as beautiful as they seem. Please leave it to your imagination to come up with something.
This is an attractive option if you are looking for an inspirational abstract tattoo that could allude to a specific event in your life.
5. Flower Serpent
Cockroaches are among the most popular snakes for tattooing. They appear in various civilizations throughout history and mythology. With a floral pattern surrounding the cobra, this particular design is ideal for women who want to show their soft side and show that all is not as evil as it looks. Snakes can also be misunderstood and this tattoo may be trying to show that to the person seeing it.
6. Side Snake Tattoo
If you are planning a large area tattoo, side tattoos are an excellent option. This small black snake is surrounded by a pair of flowers that have been thoroughly imprinted into the tattoo pattern. The snake shows exceptional attention to detail, and this theme can be represented in a variety of ways. The snake and flowers and background could most likely be made smaller if you want to use them in multiple places.
7. Half sleeve snake tattoo
This half-sleeved snake pattern will take your breath away, and it bears a striking resemblance to the Midgard Serpent of Scandinavian folklore. Simply put, the entrance looks great, and as you can see it resembles a complete work of art, complete with a giant snake visible inside the castle. There are no colors in this image, but it looks like everything is fairly accurate, showing the snake's scales and patterns and the animal's huge teeth.
8. Demon Serpent
This is another mesmerizing snake tattoo design that looks amazing as a sleeve tattoo but can also be worn almost anywhere else. It is a classic snake pattern similar in appearance to the Japanese Onii. The yellow snake is tightly coiled around the demon's jaws and head, and the devil appears to be biting the snake in the process.
9. Lady with snake tattoo
This lady with a snake tattoo design is labeled as such by us, but that doesn't mean that she is labeled as such by others. One of the reasons we liked it was that it could inspire snake designs with other people like princesses, witches, ladies or dancers. This also has the appearance of a traditional tattoo, complete with intricate and brilliant colors and lines. The scales and snake texture are deep and clear enough to be seen. This tattoo may take a little longer, but it will be worth the wait.
10. Serpent in a thorn
This is another abstract design that we found pleasing to the eye. Snakes are often associated with venom and danger, so it's no wonder someone was motivated to create a tattoo that would graphically represent what it looks like to be mentally exhausted and lacking in energy. There is an incredible amount of attention to detail in the snake design. It appears prominent, elegant, deep, and potentially dangerous. It sends out the message that "don't mess with me" is the best course of action.
11. Snake from the black hole
The abstract designs will never end. We're having trouble understanding this one, but it seems quite interesting, as well as very detailed and beautiful. According to the artist, the boa seems to appear out of the sky, or rather out of a gate or possibly a colossal black hole, according to the artist. It has large teeth and appears to be plotting something nefariously sinister. While its body is sculpted in minute detail, the scales are also correctly mapped onto the creature's body. There are many ways to use the snake, but this one looks like it would go well with a gothic look.
12. Serpent Attack Tattoo
You have to judge if this snake seems satisfied or just hungry. Everything indicates that it is ready to strike, flexing its beautiful and flexible body in an attack on its prey. The snake has been tattooed in great detail, emphasizing the eyes, scales and overall shape. As a result, it appears thin and small and would look fabulous regardless of the posture chosen.
13. Face Tattoo
Let's say you have discussed where on your face would be the most appropriate place for your unique snake tattoo design. In such a scenario, this side tattoo of an angry snake attacking can serve as a source of inspiration. In preparation for the attack, the snake has opened its jaws and trained its fangs toward its intended target. Although this ink tattoo is more ideal for darker styles, it can still serve as inspiration for other snake designs.
Other snake tattoo ideas for man and woman
More facts to consider when getting a snake tattoo
We have compiled a comprehensive list of the most incredible snake tattoo ideas that we could find. Our goal is for this page to answer any other questions you may have about snake tattoos that you have not been able to find answers to anywhere on the internet.
Which gender is more likely to have a snake tattoo?
When we get a snake tattoo, we think that there shouldn't be any gender differences. When it comes to getting a snake tattoo, it is suitable for both men and women who want to express themselves through the design. As we mentioned earlier, snakes are associated with a variety of symbols, so there are no restrictions on who can have a snake tattoo based on their gender identity.
While snake tattoos are statistically more common in men, a significant number of women get them done to represent a circumstance or a feeling they are experiencing.
Continue reading:How to Speed Up Tattoo Healing Time: Some things you can do to speed up the healing process
Is it painful to get a snake tattoo?
Although everyone's pain tolerance is different, everyone reacts differently to the needle. An intense pain tolerance allows some people to stay several hours or even multiple sessions to get the perfect tattoo, while others are too scared to come back for the second appointment. Snakes are typically used in huge tattoo designs, which means they take more time to create and can be more awkward to handle than smaller designs. There are also many different textures and patterns to think about which can make the whole thing more time consuming and difficult.
Is it possible to cover a surgical scar with a snake tattoo?
Snake tattoos are a great choice when it comes to covering up scars after surgery! The snakes are small and delicate, adapting well to their surroundings. Remember that you should avoid getting a tattoo if your wound has only recently healed. Be sure to wait for the damage to fully heal before attempting to make a beautiful tattoo out of it.
Where is the best place to get a snake tattoo?
Snakes are adaptable and vary in size, and they can be found almost anywhere. But many people like arm and leg tattoos, especially when they are part of an overall design like the sleeve pattern. On the other hand, snake tattoos on the sides, back and chest look amazing.
FAQs
What is the symbolism of snake tattoo? ›
A characteristic of snakes is that they shed, allowing it to heal and appear new. This lends itself to becoming a symbol of rebirth and transformation. The idea of a snake shedding its old layer of skin resonates with many people who are looking to represent the concept of turning over a new leaf and rebirth.
What is the Don't Tread on Me snake tattoo? ›The tread in Gadsden's defiant phrase, don't tread on me, means “to step, walk, or trample so as to press, crush, or injure something.” And so, with its tongue flicked, fangs out, and body coiled in defense, the rattlesnake (and motto) warns: “If you dare put your foot down on me, I will strike.”
What does snake with flower tattoo mean? ›A snake and rose tattoo can represent many things, but is most commonly associated with danger and love. Yep, that's right. Danger because the snake is often considered to be a symbol of evil, and love because the rose is thought to be the most romantic flower there is.
What does snake and heart tattoo mean? ›Snake and heart tattoo. Symbol of love, envy, evil.
What snake symbolizes healing? ›During the Middle Ages the caduceus became a symbol of the healing sciences (pharmacy and alchemy in particular), and today, although mythologically incorrect, it is in common usage in the health care field.
Who snake symbol meaning? ›The staff with the snake has long been a symbol of medicine and the medical profession. It originates from the story of Asclepius, who was revered by the ancient Greeks as a god of healing and whose cult involved the use of snakes.
What does the don't step on me snake mean? ›The 'Don't Tread on Me' rattlesnake depicts a rattlesnake coiled up and ready to strike. The intended message was that America, like the rattlesnake, would not back down, nor would they attack, unless their rights were infringed on. For many, the flag was meant as both a warning, and a promise.
What is the yellow flag with a snake? ›The Gadsden flag is a historical American flag with a yellow field depicting a timber rattlesnake coiled and ready to strike. Beneath the rattlesnake are the words: "DONT TREAD ON ME".
Where did the motto Don't Tread on Me Come From? ›Gadsden designed the “Don't Tread on Me” Flag in 1775, during the American Revolutionary War. Along with the Liberty Flag, it was flown as a motto flag by the Continental Marines.
What does a snake tattoo mean on a woman? ›It represents death and reincarnation. Snakes shed their skin and thus become a symbol of rebirth. In terms of meaning, the two elements are complementary.
What does it mean to call a woman a snake? ›
Snake can be slang for a person who acts in a deceitful, underhanded, or backstabbing way.
What does snake and cherry blossom tattoo mean? ›Tattoo design portraying a snake wrapped around cherry blossoms. The cherry blossoms symbolize renewal while the snake symbolizes rebirth, transformation, and healing. All in all, this design embodies the process of letting go of the past and becoming who you truly are.
What does a 3 headed snake tattoo mean? ›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 the infinity snake tattoo mean? ›In speech and writing, the ouroboros is often called “the self-eating snake,” used as learned term or metaphor for infinity, cyclicality, or some other kinds of loop phenomena, often self-destructive in nature. The ouroboros is also a popular tattoo and internet icon as personal symbol for rebirth.
What do snake tattoos on both sides of neck mean? ›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.
What God is symbolized by snakes? ›Quetzalcóatl, Mayan name Kukulcán, (from Nahuatl quetzalli, “tail feather of the quetzal bird [Pharomachrus mocinno],” and coatl, “snake”), the Feathered Serpent, one of the major deities of the ancient Mexican pantheon.
Why is snake a symbol of God? ›The familiar mythology of the ancient Near East manifests the primeval struggle between the powers of good and evil, both of which are often represented by snakes. As a bringer of salvation and giver of everlasting life the snake became a divine reptile.
What is the single snake medical symbol? ›Caduceus is a symbol with a short staff entwined by two serpents, sometimes surmounted by wings while the Rod of Asclepius is the one with a single snake.
Who is the snake demon? ›The Snake Demon, also known as the Serpent Demon, was a flashback antagonist of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. She was worshipped by the entire Iguro Family.
What does snakes mean in a dream spiritually? ›According to professional dream analyst and author Lauri Quinn Loewenberg, snakes — a common dream archetype — typically represent a person in the dreamer's life who exhibits low, dirty, toxic, or poisonous behavior. However, they can also represent something related to health or healing.
What is the 2 step snake? ›
During the Vietnam War, American soldiers referred to the many-banded krait as the "two-step snake," in the mistaken belief that its venom was lethal enough to kill within two steps.
What is the 3 step snake? ›Etymology. A person being bitten would supposedly die in the time taken to walk three steps.
What is the 5 step snake? ›The “five-step snake” is a species called Deinagkistrodon. While its venom can cause bleeding, pain and swelling, the belief that victims of bites will die within five paces is largely exaggerated. Yuan continued that he often told his patients not to take such dramatic measures to save themselves after being bitten.
What is the flag with 4 snakes? ›The symbol of the four snakes, present on the uniform of the gendarmes of Martinique until 2018 was the popular flag of Martinique until then. Although the French flag is the official flag of Martinique, the snake flag was used to represent the island over the years.
What US state has a snake on its flag? ›In 1775, as the American Revolution began, South Carolina politician Christopher Gadsden expanded on Franklin's idea, and possibly the red-and-white flag as well, when he created the yellow flag with a coiled rattler and the same phrase: “Don't Tread On Me.”
What is the white snake flag? ›Martinique Flag. Flag Description: a light blue background is divided into four quadrants by a white cross; in the center of each rectangle is a white snake; the flag of France is used for official occasions.
What does an upside down Don't Tread on Me flag mean? ›Upside-down flag symbol of distress, Piecemakers say.
What does coiled snake mean? ›curled or wound (especially in concentric rings or spirals) “a coiled snake ready to strike”
Can you fly the Gadsden flag with the American flag? ›Without an appropriate flagpole separation, you cannot fly the Gadsden flag within sight of a US flag. The Federal Flag Code states that no other flag should be placed above or on the same level, to the right of the US flag.
What does a snake wrapped around a rose tattoo mean? ›The Snake and Rose Meaning
A Snake wrapped around a rose is blinding passion, temptation that lead to corruption. The Serpent is an ambivalent symbol, it is not only evil, so a snake coiled around a rose doesn't have only a negative meaning but it means eternal life, embracing the passion for a craft.
What compliments a snake 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 on the collar bone tattoo mean? ›Some people get them for symbolic reasons, as the snake is often associated with concepts such as rebirth, transformation, and healing. Others may get a collarbone snake tattoo as a tribute to a loved one or as a way to commemorate a significant event in their life.
What is snake personality? ›Decent, Sophisticated, Eloquent
Most of time, Snake personality is nonchalant, but they are actually enthusiastic. They are romantic, decent and sophisticated, and also eloquent, which makes them humorous. People will feel comfortable and relaxed when talking with them.
In the Christian tradition, Satan (in the guise of the serpent) instigated the fall by tricking Eve into breaking God's command. Thus the serpent can represent temptation, the devil, and deceit. The snake is phallic, but also can be seen as androgynous.
Does snake mean liar? ›Hi Tierra ,snake used in slang means a person that is false or fake and would do anything to get where they want(cheat,lie,etc.).
What does a snake tattoo with a moon mean? ›Likewise, a crescent moon tattoo is often chosen to represent phases or cycles in one's life. In this way, both the snake and moon can be viewed as symbols of renewal and change. Another interesting correlation between a snake and moon tattoo is that they are both used as symbols of fertility and childbirth.
What does the Medusa snake tattoo mean? ›Seeking revenge, Athena transformed Medusa into a snake-headed monster that turned onlookers to stone. The Medusa tattoo has become popular among women who have experienced sexual assault. By reclaiming the Medusa identity, they are dispelling the belief that being victimized means they ought to be cursed or punished.
What does a double snake tattoo mean? ›In Aztec tattoos, the double-headed snake represented intelligence. However, typically in cultures, this type of snake symbolizes transformation, rebirth, and renewal. The two heads show that the snake can multiply itself which suggests thoughts of rebirth and renewal of the body and the mind.
What does 444 neck tattoo mean? ›The “444” specifically refers to passion and ambition. The number is meant to inspire you to get your act together and move towards something great, don't drag your feet, and reignite and find the things that make you passionate about life. Teen Wolf's Tyler Posey Explains His Tattoos.
What does the snake figure 8 mean? ›The term derives from Ancient Greek οὐροβόρος, from οὐρo oura 'tail' plus -βορός -boros '-eating'. The ouroboros is often interpreted as a symbol for eternal cyclic renewal or a cycle of life, death, and rebirth; the snake's skin-sloughing symbolises the transmigration of souls.
What does snake circle mean? ›
: a circular symbol that depicts a snake or dragon devouring its own tail and that is used especially to represent the eternal cycle of destruction and rebirth.
What does figure 8 snake tattoo mean? ›Infinity symbol ouroboros tattoo
Most ouroboros symbol depicts a snake or a dragon biting its tail in the form of a circle. But the tattooist constructs the design as a figure 8, mirroring the infinity symbol. Both the infinity and ouroboros symbols represent the endless cycle of life.
The spiritual meanings of a snake include renewal, fertility, guidance, and protection. Snakes are also excellent spirit animals. The snake spirit animal is a symbol of rebirth, genesis, and transformation. It allows you to look for new opportunities and become a better individual.
Where do you put a snake tattoo? ›A popular option for a snake tattoo is to place it on your forearm. Because the forearm is a long, narrow placement for a tattoo, it is ideally suited to a snake design.
What is the three snakes symbol? ›As a symbolic object, it represents Hermes (or the Roman Mercury), and by extension trades, occupations, or undertakings associated with the god. In later Antiquity, the caduceus provided the basis for the astrological symbol representing the planet Mercury.
What God do snakes represent? ›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.