With Lunar New Year fast-approaching on 29 January 2025, people across the globe are getting ready to celebrate the Year of the Snake. But just why are we so transfixed by this limbless reptile?
Every year, the Lunar New Year celebrates a new reigning animal representing one of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. And in 2025 we'll be officially entering the Year of the Snake.
Why are lunar years named after animals?
Traditionally in China, years are named after 12 different animals: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.
There's a popular legend about the Jade Emperor, who wanted to select 12 animals to be his guards. He organised a race, and the first 12 animals to finish the race would be assigned to a year, hence the 12 zodiac animals.
The rat won, because it was cunning. The snake was clever and strategic and coiled around the horse’s hoof, managing to hitch a ride and finish ahead of it.
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According to the myth, each animal’s traits are believed to influence the personalities and fortunes of people born in that year.
The zodiac system is used in other east and southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Korea and Japan. However, they might have slight variations in the animal representations.
What does the snake symbolise in Asian culture?
In contemporary art and literature, snakes are often portrayed as fearsome, devious animals. Of course, deadly prehistoric snakes did exist. However, snakes are widely recognised in east and southeast Asia for their wisdom, intuition and mystery. They are naturally strategic and make excellent problem-solvers.
They also represent transformation in Chinese culture, and can herald a year of growth and renewal.
Contemporary literature and religious stories across the globe often fuels fear of snakes, but symbolism in ancient Chinese mythology paints a different picture.
According to Asia Research News, in ancient Chinese culture the snake symbolises "wisdom, spirituality, health, vitality, good fortune, and auspiciousness.
Professor Cai Zongqipointed, director of the Advanced Institute for Global Chinese Studies of Lingnan University, says: "As we approach the Year of the Snake, we aspire to wisdom and the pursuit of a new life, and wish families and friends deeper wisdom, greater success in their careers and a coming year filled with new and exciting opportunities."
Which zodiac animals are compatible with the snake?
While in real life the rooster and snake might do battle, in Asian culture the animals are seen as compatible. They are both thought to be wise and patient.
The ox is also a good match for the snake, considered responsible and careful.
How do people celebrate Lunar New Year?
People across the globe will celebrate Lunar New Year over a 15-day period with feasting, festivities, parties and parades.
It is traditional to set off firecrackers and sky lanterns. However, these are damaging to the environment and pose serious harm to wildlife. It's good to use stationary candles, nightlights or static lanterns instead.
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Main image credit: Getty Images