As Chinese communities around the world prepare to welcome the Year of the Snake on January 29, 2025, the rich tapestry of traditions and myths surrounding the serpent comes alive once more. This year's festivities are infused with a renewed appreciation for the serpent's profound legacy in Chinese culture.
China Media Group (CMG) has unveiled its latest Spring Festival Gala theme, \"Year of the Snake, Keep Your Spirits Awake,\" introducing an official mascot named Si Shengsheng. The mascot symbolizes vitality and wisdom, capturing the essence of the serpent's significance in Chinese folklore.
In ancient China, the snake was revered not only as a creature of nature but also as a divine symbol. Mythology tells of Fuxi and Nuwa, the legendary creators of humanity, depicted with human upper bodies and serpentine lower bodies. They are credited with bestowing essential gifts upon humankind—Fuxi taught the people fishing and hunting, while Nuwa molded humans from clay and repaired the pillars of heaven.
The reverence for snakes is evident in ancient texts, where the character \"Ta\" (他), which now means \"he\" or \"it,\" originally referred to snakes. The \"Shuowen Jiezi,\" an ancient Chinese dictionary compiled nearly two millennia ago, notes that greetings of the time often inquired about encounters with snakes, highlighting their central role in daily life and spiritual beliefs.
As modern celebrations intertwine with age-old traditions, the Year of the Snake offers an opportunity to reflect on the serpent's enduring influence. From its mythological roots to contemporary symbols like Si Shengsheng, the snake continues to inspire and captivate.
Whether through attending the vibrant Spring Festival Gala, sharing stories of Fuxi and Nuwa, or embracing the wisdom and adaptability the serpent represents, people across the globe come together to honor this remarkable creature. The Year of the Snake invites everyone to \"Keep Your Spirits Awake,\" embracing new beginnings with alertness and grace.
As the festivities commence, the legacy of the serpent serves as a bridge between the ancient and the modern, uniting generations in celebration and hope for the year ahead.
Reference(s):
The serpent's legacy: From Fuxi and Nuwa to Spring Festival 2025
cgtn.com
