Traditional Snake Tattoo Designs: Meaning and Symbols

Learn the rich symbolism and cultural significance of traditional snake tattoo designs, and discover unique designs tailored to your style.

Among the traditional tattoo themes that have migrated from ancient times to our time, the image of a snake remains constantly relevant. These animals have historically had a huge number of symbolic meanings, which have both positive and negative natures.

Its powerful energy and mystical symbolism have not in vain been embodied in the culture and religions of all the peoples of the world and have also played a significant role in ancient stories, legends, mythology and religious texts.

Traditional snake tattoos are a classic these days. Quite a few people get these tattoos. In this article, we will look at different traditional snake tattoo designs, and discuss the meaning of the symbol in history and different cultures. And, most importantly, we will look for an answer to the question – why do we like these animals so much?

Traditional Snake Tattoo Meaning

If you have decided to get a snake tattoo on your body, you should know what it can mean. One of the first mentions of this animal can be found in Christianity. The well-known story of the fall of our ancestors Adam and Eve, in which the snake is a symbol of sin and temptation.

But the snake is a rather multifaceted symbol. As a carnivorous reptile, it aims to kill its prey and therefore signifies impartiality, death and destruction.

In Japanese culture, the snake has a wide range of symbolism but is most often depicted as a guardian creature with sharp teeth that protects wealth and treasures. The snake can also symbolize rebirth, transformation, and the constant renewal of life.

Jormungand is a huge sea or world serpent in Scandinavian mythology, which according to legend will bring about Ragnarok (the end of the world). Symbolizes death and fate.

The sacred meaning of a coiled snake is associated with the ancient serpent Ouroboros, symbolizing the infinity of the alternation of cycles of life and death.

There is not a single religious or cultural tradition that does not have motifs associated with the snake.

Snake and other symbols

• Snakes and roses (or other flowers). Very common tattoos. The snake, along with the roses, has a deep symbolic meaning. Together, these two images look quite contradictory and bold and are an undoubted symbol of temptation. A tattoo of a snake with flowers will look very gentle, and the meaning may depend on the symbolism of the flower itself, not necessarily a rose.
• Snake and arrow. This is a special tattoo because it can say a lot about a person. A snake and arrow tattoo symbolizes revenge or hatred towards someone or something. The lack of color in such work only increases its seriousness.
• Snake and Hawk. Hawks are versatile hunters and their most common prey is snakes. A classic tattoo motif for traditional and old-school styles that tells a symbolic story in the process. A tattoo depicting a hawk attacking a snake is a visual representation of the law of nature, the struggle between good and evil.

When creating a sketch of a traditional snake, it is quite easy to combine it with different symbols. These can be thorn branches, skulls, daggers or other cold weapons, patterns, inscriptions, and so on. Fantasize, look for spiritual meanings – and create a unique, only yours, tattoo!

Traditional snake tattoo for girls

A strong, brave, self-confident woman is unlikely to choose a tattoo in the form of a butterfly, fish or cat. An unpredictable and dangerous snake is quite appropriate on the body of such a girl. Possible semantic load of such a tattoo: treachery, dexterity, devotion, sharp mind.

But even such strong and independent women still remain feminine. That is why they often choose a snake with a rose design, which means passion and subtle temptation, or small snake tattoos.

Traditional Snake Tattoos For Men

A tattoo with snake symbolism for men is filled with a more brutal meaning, fundamentally different from the female outlook on life. Many men apply a tattoo with a snake image in order to emphasize the strengths of their character: calmness, justice, and courage.

An attacking snake depicted on a man’s body declares the man’s determination, perseverance, and his desire to defend his independence.

Suitable place for a traditional snake tattoo 

The traditional snake symbol is so universal that it can be applied to almost any part of the body. Everything depends on your desire and the skills of the artist because a detailed sketch of a snake tattoo with scales can be difficult to transfer to the skin in such a way as to correctly repeat all the curves of the animal.

Carefully drawn curves of the snake can advantageously emphasize the relief of a beautifully outlined figure.

The tattoo will look spectacular on the forearms, back, upper chest or on the cervical-clavicular area. These parts of the body, as a rule, are associated with openness, swiftness of movement and flexibility of behavior, which is quite consistent with the energy of such a tattoo. A snake tattoo on the arm looks especially cool when it wraps around like a bracelet.

The placement may also depend on how visible you want your tattoo to be. If you want to show it off openly, your arms and neck are good places. If you want to hide it or show it off only occasionally, you can get a tattoo on your back, chest, or thigh.

Key Takeaway 

Traditional snake tattoo designs are rich in history and layered with diverse meanings, symbolizing everything from strength and transformation to protection and mysticism. Each design can be tailored to convey your personal story or values, drawing on symbols from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.

If you’re captivated by the powerful allure of snake tattoos and want a unique design that speaks to you, we invite you to visit The Hangout Tattoo Studio. Our talented artists are dedicated to creating one-of-a-kind tattoos that match your vision and style.