Back in the 18th century, the Russian ethnographer Mikhail Chulkov wrote that snakes were almost like gods to the Slavs. They received offerings, such as food and milk, and couldn’t be killed. The likely explanation is that snakes played two important roles in Slavic mythology: one of them had to do with domestic life and the other is rooted in ancient times.

Snakes as patrons 

If our contemporaries were to find out that a serpent is living in their house, they would probably freak out. Back in the day, however, this was a good sign. Such an inhabitant promised that happiness and abundance would reign in this household. Therefore, it would be left alone and given treats.

Why would a snake help you prosper, you might ask? Well, the belief was that snakes embodied the souls of people’s ancestors. It makes sense, as they lived under the floors or underneath the doorstep, and these locations were considered to be the dwellings of long-gone forefathers. So, they had their family’s best interest in mind, and acted like animal counterparts of domovoys.

At the same time, the snakes weren’t supposed to be seen in broad daylight, and their occurrence was a bad sign. Killing one was prohibited, however, as it could lead to the death of family members. Therefore, these creatures were honored, but also feared. 

Snakes, the rain-bringers

Boris Rybakov, a Soviet archaeologist and historian, also wrote about snakes as symbols of rain. Such beliefs are rooted in even more ancient history, tracing back to the Neolithic times. Back then, rain was crucial, as it was the only way to water the crops. It was almost impossible to survive without it.

Snakes, in turn, also like rainy weather – that’s when they crawl out of hiding. Ancient people noticed the connection and represented it in art and mythology. For example, water vessels were oftentimes covered with spiral patterns associated with a crawling snake. So, this was a symbolic way to attract rain and keep the vessel full of water.

Now you know the importance of snakes in Slavic folk culture. If this got you thinking about the significance of other animals, check out our previous story. And happy 2025, the year of the snake!