Guide to Legends and Fables About the Snake Zodiac Sign
The Snake, one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, is a symbol of wisdom, intuition, and transformation. Rooted in Chinese mythology and folklore, the Snake is associated with intriguing tales and cultural symbolism. Here's a guide to the legends and fables surrounding the Snake zodiac sign.
1. The Snake in the Great Race
The Legend: In the famous tale of the Chinese zodiac race, the Snake played a cunning role. To cross the river, the Snake hid on the Horse's hoof. When they were near the finish line, the Snake suddenly sprang forward, startling the Horse and taking sixth place.
Moral: This story highlights the Snake’s resourcefulness, strategic thinking, and ability to outwit others, key traits attributed to those born under this sign.
2. The Snake and the Farmer
The Fable: A farmer finds a snake frozen in the snow and takes pity on it, bringing it home to warm it. Once revived, the snake bites the farmer. When questioned, the snake responds, "You knew I was a snake when you picked me up."
Moral: This tale is a cautionary reminder about the dangers of misplaced trust and serves to illustrate the duality of the Snake’s personality—charming yet potentially dangerous.
3. Nuwa: The Snake Goddess
The Legend: Nuwa, a revered deity in Chinese mythology, is often depicted with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a snake. She is credited with creating humanity by molding clay figures and repairing the sky after a great flood by using stones of five colors.
Significance: Nuwa symbolizes the Snake’s connection to creativity, fertility, and the balance of nature. Her story also emphasizes wisdom and resourcefulness, traits tied to the Snake zodiac.
4. The White Snake Legend (Bai She Zhuan)
The Tale: This famous romantic tale follows Bai Suzhen, a white snake spirit, who falls in love with a human, Xu Xian. Despite their love, they face numerous obstacles, including the opposition of a Buddhist monk, Fa Hai, who sees Bai Suzhen as a threat.
Themes: The legend symbolizes love, sacrifice, and the complexities of good and evil. The Snake here represents both the allure of the unknown and the duality of passion and danger.
Modern Influence: This story remains one of the most beloved Chinese folktales, adapted into operas, films, and TV dramas.
5. The Snake as a Protector
The Belief: In ancient China, snakes were sometimes seen as protectors of treasures or sacred spaces. Legends speak of snakes guarding temples, mountains, or precious artifacts, warning intruders of dire consequences.
Symbolism: This role as a guardian reflects the Snake’s vigilance, wisdom, and mystique in Chinese culture.
6. The Snake and the Dragon
The Myth: The Snake and the Dragon share deep cultural ties. Some myths suggest that snakes can transform into dragons through age and spiritual cultivation. This transformation signifies growth, ascension, and the pursuit of higher knowledge.
Connection to the Zodiac: The Snake and Dragon, though distinct zodiac signs, share an affinity for power and transformation, making them complementary in many Chinese tales.
7. The Snake as a Symbol of Healing
The Mythology: Snakes have long been associated with medicine and healing. In some Chinese legends, the Snake is depicted as a wise healer, with its venom symbolizing both poison and cure.
Cultural Impact: This dual role as a bringer of both harm and healing reflects the complexity of the Snake’s nature, making it a powerful symbol of balance and renewal.
Symbolism of the Snake in the Zodiac
Key Traits: People born under the Snake zodiac are believed to be intuitive, charming, enigmatic, and wise. They are also known for their ability to adapt and their penchant for deep thinking.
Yin Energy: The Snake embodies yin energy, representing introspection, mystery, and the unseen.
Elemental Influence: The Snake’s characteristics can be further influenced by its elemental cycle (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water), adding layers to its personality and mythology.
Folklore Proverbs Involving Snakes
"The snake in the grass" (草中蛇): Refers to unseen dangers, highlighting the Snake’s stealth and subtlety.
"Paint a snake and add feet" (画蛇添足): A warning against unnecessary embellishments, inspired by a tale of overconfidence and folly.
By exploring these tales and myths, you can gain a deeper appreciation of the cultural richness surrounding the Snake zodiac sign and its enduring symbolism in Chinese tradition.