Serpent (symbolism) facts for kids
The serpent, or snake, is one of the oldest and most widespread mythological symbols. The word is derived from Latin serpens, a crawling animal or snake. Snakes have been associated with some of the oldest rituals known to humankind and represent dual expression of good and evil.
In some cultures, snakes were fertility symbols. For example, the Hopi people of North America performed an annual snake dance to celebrate the union of Snake Youth (a Sky spirit) and Snake Girl (an Underworld spirit) and to renew the fertility of Nature. During the dance, live snakes were handled and at the end of the dance the snakes were released into the fields to guarantee good crops.
Images for kids
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Mami Wata, important in African and African-American religions
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The "libation vase of Gudea" with the dragon Mushussu, dedicated to Ningishzida (twentieth century BCE short chronology). The caduceus is interpreted as depicting the god himself.
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Snake decoration on Bronze Age pot from Rumailah, Al Ain
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An ancient painting of Nuwa and Fuxi unearthed in Xinjiang
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Statue of Asclepius
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Imperial Japan depicted as an evil snake in a WWII propaganda poster
