2025 / Chinese New Year: The Year of the Snake and its Surprising Symbolism
Naomi Griffin, Year 2 History
From January 29th, Chinese New Year celebrations (‘Spring Festival’) will mark the end of the Year of the Dragon and the beginning of the Year of the Wood Snake. While Western depictions of snakes, such as the enemies in the Indiana Jones movies and the symbol of betrayal in Taylor Swift’s album Reputation, often portray them as evil, Chinese mythology offers a much more positive symbolism for the Snake in the upcoming year.
Each Chinese New Year corresponds to one of twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, or Pig, and is associated with one of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water. This results in a 60-year cycle, as each combination of animal and element occurs only once every 60 years. This cyclical pattern underscores the potential for renewal and transformation that each new year represents.
Chinese zodiac paper-cut portraits
The Wood element, in particular, further encourages this by connoting growth and creativity. Fengshui philosophy associates it with the colour green, the season of spring, and windy weather; all relatively comforting ideas which could indicate that this growth does not have to compromise stability.
Within Chinese mythology, the Snake is a prevalent and complex character. Although it may initially seem underwhelming, its power is exemplified by the belief that it can eventually transform into a dragon (and is sometimes even called the “little dragon”). While its negative traits are acknowledged, they are considered less important than its wisdom and good fortune. In this context, ‘cunning’ can easily be seen as ‘intelligence’.
For example, legend states that the Jade Emperor (deemed ruler of Heaven) organised a race across a rapid river for all animals to decide their order in the zodiac. Amidst variations of the story – whether the Snake reached a respectable sixth place by clinging to the Horse, riding on the Dragon or even claiming to be the Dragon’s son – its use of deceit is consistent. However, the Emperor viewed this as a sign of skill and craft, especially since the Rat similarly won by preventing the Cat from competing (one version claims he conveniently failed to wake the Cat in time) and by riding on the Ox’s head. Thus, despite its dishonourable methods, the Snake was instantly recognized as resourceful.
While the myth of the animal race emphasises their intelligence, the central role of snakes in one of China’s four classic folktales: the Legend of the White Snake, also portrays them as having a more caring nature; a greater connection to humanity than their ‘evil’ image would suggest.
The movie poster of Green Snake
The story aptly follows a white snake who transformed into a woman, Bai Suzhen, and fell in love with a good and ordinary man, Xu Xian. Unsurprisingly, their relationship had its challenges: Xu Xian died of shock when his wife’s true form was revealed. Nonetheless, Bai Suzhen successfully found a magic cure to revive him and they welcomed a son, who would ultimately save her from imprisonment in the Leifeng Pagoda by impressing the heavens with his devotion.
Beyond simply being a well-loved story, the tale incorporates key principles of love and gratitude, painting the Snake in a more positive light. Bai Suzhen is said to be eternally thankful toward Xu Xian, as some variations state that he saved her life when she was still a snake. Similarly, she earned lifelong loyalty from her friend Xiaoqing by helping her become human. This indicates a sense of companionship that transcends species and supernatural boundaries.
The affinity between humans and snakes dates back thousands of years in Chinese history and extends beyond folktale characters to ancestors of civilisation. Several primeval accounts, such as the text Shan Hai Jing (‘Classics of Mountains and Seas’), record their connection, ranging from Gods and Goddesses wearing them as decorations to even being half serpent themselves (like the mythical emperor Fu Xi). The noble and authoritative status of these figures emphasises the symbolic significance of the Snake, suggesting it represents success and prosperity.
Another element of the Snake which is particularly pertinent is its ability to shed its skin. It is therefore often associated with transformations and new beginnings, with its wisdom ensuring that this change is an improvement on its previous state. These connotations make it a promising sign to guide the new year.
As revealed by Chinese culture, the complex symbolism of the Snake as wise and creative helps to explain why astrologers believe it will bring a year of growth and reflection. Previous years of the Snake have certainly been culturally significant, from the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953, to the landmark Voting Rights Act passed in 1965, the cinematic release of the original Star Wars in 1977, the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the founding of Wikipedia in 2001, and Andy Murray’s first win at Wimbledon in 2013. Hopefully, this connection will serve as a similar good luck charm for 2025.
Note: The terms "Chinese New Year" and "Lunar New Year" are often used interchangeably. However, "Chinese New Year" specifically refers to the traditional Chinese festival celebrated in China and by Chinese communities worldwide. "Lunar New Year" is a broader term that encompasses similar celebrations based on the lunar calendar in various Asian cultures, such as Tết in Vietnam and Seollal in Korea. It is worth noting that on December 4, 2024, UNESCO officially inscribed the Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Edited by Shujiao Guo