Significance of Serpent
Synonyms: Snake, Reptile, Viper, Boa, Python, Cobra, Adder
In Dutch: Shlang; In Malay: Ular; In French: Serpent; In Finnish: 碍盲盲谤尘别; In Spanish: Serpiente; In German: Schlange; In Swedish: Orm
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Serpent'
In Buddhism, the Serpent symbolizes the journey of knowledge, the dangers of unrighteousness, the fluidity of form, and the instinct for survival, often illustrated through its pursuit by the Garuda and its disguise within a jewel.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A creature seeking safety by disguising itself in a jewel, which invokes themes of fear and survival while being pursued by the Garuda.[1]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A representation of progression through knowledge, emphasizing the need for a Bhikshu to avoid unrighteousness and seek clarity in his thoughts.[2]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A creature that is subject to perpetual flex, leading it to become crooked and not have a permanent form.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Serpent'
In Hinduism, serpents symbolize duality, representing power, danger, and mysticism. They embody wisdom, divine protection, and the challenges of life while also highlighting themes of sacrifice, attachment, and the transient nature of existence.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Indicates Sarpas, a classification of serpentine beings that are well recognized in various texts.[4]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Celestial beings linked with the Ashleshas.[5]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Spiritual beings to whom portions of the sacrifice, particularly blood and entrails, are assigned in ritualistic practices.[6]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) The form that the brahmana assumed after his death, which becomes central to the story and the quest for redemption.[7]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Serpents are the offspring of Surasa, with all snakes being called Kadru their mother, indicating a familial connection.[8]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A symbol of power and danger in the churning episode, representing both the challenges faced and the potential for great rewards through divine efforts.[9]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This is a term used to describe the lunar nodes, and these names, like those of the other planets, are used in the translation to convey a range of Sanskrit epithets: 鈥榯he darkness鈥�, 鈥榯he serpent鈥�, 鈥榯he son of Simhika鈥�, etc.[10]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A motif within the narrative, symbolizing danger and revenge, particularly linked to Ruru's love story.[11]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Symbolizes a lethal predator, used to portray the danger of death that easily overtakes the unsuspecting.[12]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Figures that should be carved around the trunk of the tree, characterized by multiple hoods, adding a divine element.[13]
Jain concept of 'Serpent'
In Jainism, the Serpent symbolizes both danger and protection, embodying a duality that highlights its complex role in spiritual contexts as a guardian and a potential threat.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Symbolizes both danger and protection; its presence can indicate a duality of roles within spiritual contexts.[14]
The concept of Serpent in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Serpent" relates to various symbolic interpretations: it represents valuable expectations, ecological roles, divine protection, illusions, and spiritual awakening, particularly in the context of Kundalini Shakti as it ascends awakening new perceptions.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The serpent embodies yoga, representing the practice of self-discipline, the union of mind and body, and spiritual practices.[15] (2) A metaphor used to illustrate the illusion of the world, highlighting that while one perceives the world, the true self is not realized, representing a state of ignorance.[16] (3) We take the 'rope for the serpent', the error is ours; this is an example of mistaking one thing for another, a form of delusion.[17] (4) This is indicative of Yoga and the awakened Kundalini Shakti, according to the text, and it encircles the lotus in the design of the Ramakrishna Mission seal.[18] (5) This is a symbol that rests on the bone or triangle, and when it is roused, it travels up the spinal cord, and as it goes from centre to centre, a new natural world is opened inside us.[19]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A figurative expression representing illusion or misunderstanding, suggesting that what is perceived may not be the reality, as illustrated by the confusion of seeing a rope as a serpent.[20] (2) Creatures that are said to be preyed upon by the peacock, symbolizing its prowess and importance in the ecosystem.[21] (3) A metaphorical creature evoked by Shah Saheb to frighten away adversaries in the context of divine protection.[22]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) This term refers to a figure who is responsible for making suggestions that lead to sin.[23]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Creatures that the poor man expects will come to the ashes, and which he believes will yield valuable jewels.[24]