AS WE head into 2025, the dragon zodiac is set to make way for the snake.
However, unlike its predecessor, the snake is one of the more misunderstood and vilified zodiac animals.
In comparison to the dragon, which is almost always seen as a symbol of power and fortune, common reactions to snakes range from fear to disgust.
Such superstitions and biases have a very real impact – for example, going so far as to affect the number of wedding registrations throughout late 2024 and beyond.
While couples from the Chinese community believe the Year of the Dragon is an auspicious time to have children, children born in the coming Year of the Snake are feared to face more difficulties and challenges in life.
With such sentiments still rampant, is it true that snake skin is an auspicious symbol in some Asian countries?
Verdict:
TRUE
Snakes have always been prominent in mythologies and spiritual narratives across the world, more often than not as villains.
These misunderstood reptiles are commonly associated with bad luck, danger, poison and cunning. None of these are particularly auspicious traits!
However, it is not uncommon to see the snake also being used as a symbol of transformation, rebirth, and renewal due to their ability to shed their skin.
As such, in some Asian cultures, possessing or displaying snakeskin is thought to bring good fortune and protection by warding off evil spirits from those who keep it in their homes or carry it with them.
For example, in Chinese folklore, the snake goddess Nüwa is said to be the progenitor of all humans and remains one of the most respected deities in Chinese culture.
There are many temples dedicated to Nüwa both in China and throughout places with large Chinese diasporas, and she is commonly prayed to by women seeking blessings for marital affairs or fertility.
Meanwhile, there is a superstition in Japan that snakeskin contains the essence of "growth", with white snakes being particularly auspicious.
This belief is said to originate from Benzaiten, the God of wealth and fertility, who uses snakes as her messengers.
The Japanese even have a saying, "Hebi no nukegara wo saifu ni irete kin un appu," which roughly translates to: "If you put snakeskin in a purse or wallet, your wealth will grow."
That is why around this time of the year, you will commonly see listings for pieces of snakeskin on Japanese auction platforms such as Yahoo and Rakuten. Many come pre-packaged in a plastic case that is perfect for slipping into a wallet.
With all that being said, may the Year of the Snake bring prosperity, fortune and happiness to our readers!
References:
1. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/16/snake-year-stings-wedding-plans
2. https://mythopedia.com/topics/nuwa
3. https://uncannyjapan.com/podcast/good-luck-superstitions-in-japan/
