Why Snakes?
The inspiration came from the Chinese zodiac—this is the Year of the Wooden Snake. Depending on the lunar calendar, it began on January 29, 2025, and ends on February 16, 2026. This special year combines the Snake’s traits—wisdom, intuition, and transformation—with the Wood element’s energy of growth and renewal.
This year encourages:
· Self-reflection and personal growth: Like a snake shedding its skin, it’s a great time to let go of old habits and focus on becoming a better version of yourself.
· Checking your path: Look at where your life is going and think about what changes you want to make.
· Change and rebirth: The energy of this year helps you grow emotionally and spiritually.
That’s all I can say about the Chinese zodiac. Now, let’s take a look at the symbols of the snake.
Just hearing the word “snake” might frighten or unsettle some of you—even before seeing one, right? If you think of a snake, how would you express it in just one word? (Cold, reptilian, venomous, dangerous...) You're absolutely right—and I’m sure we could come up with many more descriptions...
But what does the snake really tell us?
They are important members of the ecosystem.
1. Rebirth and Transformation: Snakes renew themselves by shedding their skin. This process symbolizes rebirth and change. That’s why snakes are often seen as metaphors for moving from death to life, or from illness to health.
2. Knowledge and Mystery: Snakes are seen as guardians of secrets and wisdom. In ancient mythologies, they were believed to have access to hidden knowledge and to share this wisdom with humanity.
3. Medical Symbol: Snakes are widely used in symbols of medicine. The Rod of Asclepius and the staff of Hippocrates are well-known examples. Snake venom, though deadly, is also used in important medical treatments. This dual nature—dangerous yet healing—makes the snake a symbol of wisdom and health.
4. I’d like to share a true story about my teacher’s teacher, Professor Dr. Süheyl Ünver. He was both a physician and an art historian, and made valuable contributions to the history of Ottoman and Turkish medicine.
While studying ancient medical symbols, he discovered a double-snake motif carved into a stone at the Çankırı Darüşşifa, an old Ottoman medical center. Inspired by its cultural meaning, he proposed that it be used as a symbol of medicine and unity. In 1937, the Turkish Medical Association adopted it—making it the first medical symbol in the world to feature two snakes. Later, in 1956, the World Medical Association also chose the double-snake symbol as its official emblem. It represents healing, cooperation, and mutual support.
Caduceus (☤; Latin: cādūceum, “the staff of the messenger”) In Greco-Egyptian mythology, it was the staff carried by Hermes. Messengers like Iris, servant of Hera, also carried it. The caduceus is a short staff entwined with two snakes and often has wings.
During the Roman era, it was held by Mercury, the messenger of the gods. According to legend, the staff could create fire and resolve conflicts. Hermes received it from his brother Apollo, who gifted him the staff of wealth and peace. When Hermes placed it between two angry snakes, they wrapped around it and became forever entwined—symbolizing harmony. The wings represent swiftness and elevation.
Some researchers believe the oldest known image of the caduceus dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, between 4000 and 3000 BCE.
While discussing mythology, we meet two powerful female figures: Shahmaranand Medusa.
Shahmaran A beloved figure in Turkish and Middle Eastern mythology, her name comes from şah (king) and mar (snake)—meaning “Queen of Snakes.” Her upper body is that of a beautiful woman, and her lower body resembles a serpent, like a mermaid.
She lives secretly underground near the city of Tarsus, in Türkiye. One day, a young man accidentally finds her hiding place and falls in love with her. Shahmaran teaches him the secrets of snakes and the healing arts. But he betrays her, revealing her location. Shahmaran sacrifices herself for the good of humanity. After her death, her wisdom and healing powers become a legacy for the people.
Across cultures, Shahmaran is seen as a symbol of feminine power and wisdom.
And Medusa Known for her striking beauty, Medusa’s golden hair caught the eye of Poseidon, god of the sea. One day, he approached her in a temple dedicated to Athena. Athena punished Medusa by turning her hair into snakes and cursed her—anyone who looked directly at her would turn to stone.
In Istanbul, two Medusa heads lie at the base of columns in the Basilica Cistern. They are placed sideways and upside down, said to protect visitors from her gaze. Her story is dark and mysterious, and if you’d like to hear the rest, I’d be happy to share it.
So yes—when we see a snake, it doesn’t just mean danger. It may be whispering something deeper: face your fears, embrace change, and seek hidden truths.