Why is the Snake Considered Divine in Hindu Mythology?

The snake is considered divine in Hindu mythology for various reasons. Some of the possible reasons are:

• Snakes are associated with Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, who is often depicted with a snake coiled around his neck. The snake is said to be Vasuki, who was used as a rope to churn the ocean of milk (Samudra Manthan) by the gods and demons to obtain the nectar of immortality (Amrita). During this process, Vasuki emitted venom that threatened to destroy the world. Lord Shiva swallowed the venom and held it in his throat, which turned blue. Hence, he is also known as Neelkantha (the blue-throated one). By worshipping snakes on Nag Panchami, devotees express their gratitude to Lord Shiva for saving the world from destruction.
• Snakes are also considered as symbols of power, protection, and fertility in Hinduism. They are also believed to be guardians of the Earth’s treasures, and in some instances, they are regarded as the protectors of the underworld. Many Hindus believe that worshipping snakes can protect them from harm and bring them good fortune.
• Snakes are also seen as symbols of rebirth and immortality, as they shed their skin periodically and emerge with a new one. They are also associated with Kundalini, the coiled energy that lies dormant at the base of the spine and can be awakened through yoga and meditation. Kundalini is believed to be a powerful force that can lead to spiritual enlightenment.
• Snakes are also revered as the descendants of the sage Kashyapa and Kadru, who gave birth to a thousand snakes. Some of these snakes became famous in Hindu mythology, such as Ananta, who supports Vishnu as he lies on the cosmic ocean; Vasuki, who became the churning rope for the ocean of milk; Shesha, who is the king of snakes and serves as Vishnu’s couch; Kaliya, who was subdued by Krishna in the Yamuna river; Takshaka, who killed Parikshita, the grandson of Arjuna; and many others.

What is the significance of snakes in other cultures?

Snakes are fascinating creatures that have different meanings and significance in different cultures. Some of the common themes that snakes represent are:

• Healing and medicine: Snakes are often associated with healing and medicine, as they can shed their skin and renew themselves. They are also linked to the ancient symbol of the ouroboros, a snake eating its own tail, which represents eternity, cycles, and regeneration. In ancient Greece, snakes were sacred to Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing, who had a staff with a snake coiled around it. This staff is still used as a symbol of medicine today. In some Native American tribes, such as the Hopi, snakes were also seen as healers and bringers of rain.
• Power and wisdom: Snakes are also seen as symbols of power and wisdom, as they can move swiftly and stealthily, and have venomous bites that can paralyze or kill their enemies. In ancient Egypt, snakes were revered as protectors of the pharaohs and the divine. The uraeus, a stylized cobra, was worn on the crowns of the rulers to signify their authority and connection to the gods. In China, snakes are considered as auspicious animals that bring good luck and fortune. They are also one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, representing intelligence, charm, and ambition.
• Transformation and rebirth: Snakes are also symbols of transformation and rebirth, as they can change their form and appearance by shedding their skin. They are also associated with the underworld and the afterlife, as they can move between the realms of life and death. In Hinduism, snakes are worshipped as Nagas, divine beings that can take human or serpent form. They are believed to guard the treasures of the earth and the secrets of the cosmos. They are also linked to Shiva, the god of destruction and renewal, who wears a snake around his neck. In Mesoamerican cultures, such as the Aztec and Maya, snakes were also revered as deities of creation and destruction. Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god, was one of the most important gods in these civilizations. He was credited with creating humanity, teaching them arts and sciences, and bringing them civilization.

I hope this blog post helps you understand possible reasons why snakes are considered divine in Hindu mythology with more about the symbolism and importance of snakes in Hindu culture. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to comment below. Thank you for reading! 😊