What does the serpent hieroglyph mean?
In ancient Egypt the serpent was believed to be the first off- spring of primeval earth, identified with the gods Seth and Apophis, and in constant warfare against the sun-god, Ra (Lurker 1989:370). The Uraeus snake symbol worn on the forehead became the Pharaoh’s sign of sovereignty (Hendel 1995:1406; Bunn 1967:616).
What is the hieroglyphic for life?
The ankh or key of life is an ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic symbol used in Egyptian art and writing to represent the word for “life” and, by extension, as a symbol of life itself.
What is the significance of the serpent in ancient Egypt?
The Egyptians recognized the serpent as a deadly creature, but they also saw them as concomitant symbols of protection, healing, fertility, and immortality, as evidenced in various ancient texts and artifacts such as healing cippi, protective amulets, and the uraeus snake on the forefront of the pharaoh’s crown.
What do snakes represent in Greek mythology?
Serpents symbolized fertility, but besides Dionysus, they are also associated with austere deities such as Artemis, Athena and later Cybele. But also Zeus himself (as Zeus Filios, Zeus Meilichios, or as Agathos Daimon) is often depicted with a snake next to him.
What do snakes symbolize in African culture?
Several other African cultures also revere snakes as protectors, bringers of fertility, and guardians of the earth. The venerated West African water spirit Mami Wata is usually pictured holding large snakes which represent divinity and divination.
What does the serpent represent in ancient times?
But in other cultures, as far-flung as ancient Greece and Egypt and indigenous North America, snakes symbolize fertility, rebirth, renewal and even immortality. The ouroboros, the ancient symbol of eternity that was famously depicted on King Tut’s tomb in the 14th century B.C., is a serpent devouring its own tail.
What do snakes represent in Norse mythology?
Snakes are associated with deceit, fertility, and change, all of which feature in Loki’s myths. Two myths about Loki feature snakes as well. One of Loki’s children is Jormungandr (something called Jormungand), a giant serpent.
What is a quote about snakes?
Always carry a flagon of whiskey in case of snakebite and furthermore always carry a small snake. Even if a snake is not poisonous, it should pretend to be venomous. If you see a snake, just kill it – don’t appoint a committee on snakes.
What do snakes mean in Greek mythology?
The ancient Greeks considered snakes sacred to Asclepius (pronounced uh-SKLEE-pee-uhs), the god of medicine. He carried a caduceus, a staff with one or two serpents wrapped around it, which has become the symbol of modern physicians. For both the Greeks and the Egyptians, the snake represented eternity.