In Chinese mythology the snake is a symbol of yin or the dark female energy in the Universe. Although feared as portent of danger, snakes were revered by the ancient Chinese as the symbol of mysterious forces.
The snake is the sixth sign in the Chinese Zodiac, which
consists of twelve animal signs. According to an old tale, the snake was the sixth animal that finished the Grand Race organized by the Jade Emperor. There is also a Buddhist story about the twelve animals that were invited to a banquet given by the Buddha. The snake made it sixth, right after the dragon. Cunning and clever, the snake took a ride on a horse's back and slithered to the banquet right before the horse.
In Taoism the snake was regarded as a symbol of immortality, spiritual advancement and transformation.
Snakes are the most enigmatic, intuitive,
and introspective, but also the most stubborn of all the animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Snakes are considered to be a symbol of rebirth, transformation, wisdom, and intuition. They represent the power of subtle persuasion and influence. They are resourceful, cunning and creative.
The Year of the Wood Snake is meant to be a year of steady progress, growth and renewal. It is a good year to focus on personal development and the strengthening of relationships. Focus and discipline will be necessary for you to achieve what you set out to create. But be careful because the Year of the Snake may bring you some difficult puzzles and mysteries that will not be easy to solve. You will have to be more creative than ever if you do not want to get entangled in difficulties.