The Year of the Snake is the year of the snake in the traditional Chinese calendar, which revolves every 12 years and corresponds to the earthly branch “巳”. In the Ganzhi calendar, the Year of the Snake is combined with different heavenly stems to form a cycle every 60 years. The Year of the Snake ranks sixth among the twelve zodiac signs.
In Chinese culture, the snake symbolizes wisdom, alertness and change. Its hibernation and molting process is considered a symbol of “resurrection from the dead” and is full of mystery. The wit and strategy shown by snakes when hunting make them a symbol of intelligence and flexibility. In addition, snakes are also believed to have tenacious vitality and can adapt to harsh environments.
As one of the twelve zodiac signs, the Year of the Snake is part of the traditional Chinese calendar and originated from the totem culture of ancient times. The worship of the snake totem originated from the matriarchal society, and the snake was regarded as a symbol of vitality and fertility. With the changes in society, especially the rise of the patriarchal society, the snake totem gradually evolved into the dragon totem, which eventually became a symbolic animal in Chinese culture.
The Year of the Snake has a wide influence in traditional Chinese culture, especially in numerology, feng shui and folk customs. The Year of the Snake is considered to be full of changes and challenges, suitable for reform and innovation. Although the totem worship of the snake has gradually faded, the cultural influence of the snake as a zodiac sign is still far-reaching and continues to occupy an important position in traditional festivals and folk customs.
