Throughout history, the ophidian has been a prominent character in art, literature and the imaginations of people all over the world. Beyond cultures, the snake carries with information technology much meaning and symbolism, representing both positive and negative characteristics.

This makes it a pop tattoo design for both men and women. Whether y'all're considering a traditional snake tattoo, or something more contemporary, read on to discover the dissimilar symbolism and cultural meanings that the snake represents.

What Does a Snake Tattoo Symbolize?

Snakes are notoriously misunderstood creatures, and whether they are regarded equally good or evil, they can represent a variety of meanings and symbolism.

Snake Tattoo

Power and strength

Whether skillful or evil, there is no doubt that the ophidian is a powerful symbol and reptile that has evolved since the historic period of dinosaurs, or if religious, from the very Garden of Eden itself.

Danger

Some snakes possess venom. Others are downright apex predators, making them unsafe and powerful symbols.

Rebirth and healing

The ability of a snake to shed its own skin means that it can be interpreted as a symbol of rebirth, change, transformation, or healing.

Temptation

According to the Christian Bible story of Adam and Eve, a snake tempted Eve with a forbidden apple, which led to the nascence of original sin. For this reason, snakes can represent temptation and sin.

Fertility

Historically beyond many cultures, the snake is a symbol of fertility and creative life force, due in part to the snake's phallic shape.

Reincarnation

The Ouroboros (an image of a snake eating its own tail) is an aboriginal symbol that can represent the circle of life and death and rebirth. This symbol, which originated in Europe, can also represent the irresolute seasons of life.

Knowledge and Wisdom

In some ancient mythology, the serpent is seen as a symbol of noesis and wisdom.

Snake Tattoo Symbolism in Different Cultures

In Native American and African cultures, the rattlesnake is considered sacred and is linked to pelting and lightning. These cultures believed that snakes had a role in creating the planets.

A Japanese snake tattoo can exist a symbol of protection against illness or bad luck. It can besides symbolize good luck, wisdom, strength and change.

The Uraeus is an aboriginal Egyptian symbol of a reared cobra snake that is found throughout aboriginal Egyptian art. The symbol is frequently seen on the front of the crowns of the Pharaohs and is a symbol of the protective deity Wadjet.

Who Can Get a Serpent Tattoo?

The ophidian is not an explicitly masculine nor feminine symbol, making it a not bad selection that can exist adorned by both men or women alike.

Serpent Tattoo Ideas

If you lot're struggling for inspiration, here are a few of the more popular snake tattoos:

Snake Ring Tattoo
This modest snake tattoo wraps around the finger in a band-like way. If you're because a large tattoo, a serpent tattoo can as well expect awesome wrapper around your wrist, arm or leg.
Japanese Snake Tattoo
The Japanese pit viper is a beautiful looking snake with a circumvolve pattern in the calibration on its dorsum. It likewise has an intricate mosaic-similar design on its belly.
Traditional Snake Tattoo
The snake is a staple in traditional tattoos and tin can look incredible whether blackness and white or in full colour.
Snake and Skull Tattoo
Snakes and skull tattoos are a popular motif in tattoo art. Add some vibrant color to give this tattoo a more absurd and contemporary edge.

Snake Tattoo Meaning

In Toronto or Vancouver and Ready to Explore Snake Tattoos Further?

The snake is a timeless symbol of rebirth, temptation, fertility, ability and more. Information technology is also a symbol that can be integrated into a corking many other designs, with the ability to wrap or coil effectually any other object you desire.

Drop by our Downtown Toronto, Mississauga, or Vancouver tattoo shops. Our squad of skilled and passionate tattoo artists tin assistance y'all find the perfect design for your next gear up of ink.

From small snake tattoos, to bold full arm wraps, the possibilities are countless, and express just by the talent of your tattoo artist and imagination.

Tell us Your Idea

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Toronto, Ontario
M5B 1S6
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Toronto, Ontario
M4P 1K2
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7381 Kennedy Road,
Unit #105,
Markham, Ontario
L3R 5B5
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17600 Yonge Street,
Newmarket, ON
L3Y 4Z1
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