Dreaming of Snakes

Dreaming of snakes can evoke strong emotions, but understanding their symbolism can help reveal the deeper message your dream is communicating.

In biblical symbolism, serpents often represent deception or spiritual attack. In John 8:44, the Bible refers to satan as "the father of lies," making snakes a common symbol for lies, accusations, or untrustworthy individuals.

However, the Bible also includes instances where a snake has positive symbolism. For example, the serpent lifted on Moses’ pole in Numbers 21:8–9 symbolized healing and salvation, foreshadowing Christ.

Snake Symbolism in Dreams

The size, type, behavior, and even patterns of a snake in your dream offer critical insights. Context is key in determining whether the snake represents someone untrustworthy, lies you’ve believed, or even your own fears.

Examples of Snake Symbolism:

• Little White Snakes: May represent small, seemingly harmless lies or “white lies.”
• Rattlesnake: Can symbolizes intimidation or someone trying to “rattle” you emotionally or mentally.
• Water Moccasin: May indicates a lie or sin that is surfacing, as this snake is known for gliding on water. Water can also represent emotions or things of the spirit, so perhaps it's lies your emotions are causing or lies that will cause you emotional distress. If having to do with spiritual issues, perhaps it's lies surfacing that you've believed about God, etc. Allow the context to direct your interpretation.
• Python: May suggests a belief, situation, or attack that feels like it’s “squeezing” the life out of you, creating pressure or suffocation.
• Patterns Highlighted on a Snake: A focus on this may encourage you to look for patterns in someone’s behavior, signaling they may not be trustworthy, even though the pattern is interesting or even beautiful.
• Size of the Head: If the snake’s head is bigger than its body, it is poisonous. A poisonous snake in a dream warns you to steer clear of a dangerous person or situation. Additionally, a "big head" is often associated with pride, which is at the root of sin and makes a person dangerous.

If the snake is harmless (e.g., its head is not larger than its body), the dream may encourage you that, while unpleasant, the person or situation it represents poses no real danger.

Also pay attention to the length of the snake. This may reveal how "long" an issue has gone on. The meaning of the specific number may also reveal hidden insight.

If you know what type of snake it is, look up the attributes in an encyclopedia. Most often, it will resemble a person or situation you're dealing with. Is it from a specific region of the world? It may reveal it has to do with a similar issue that happened there or may if you're traveling to that location. Does the color stand out? If it does, what does that color represent? This will give you further insight.Personal and Relational Symbolism

The saying “in bed with a snake” often refers to trusting someone who is deceptive. For some, this may relate to a business partner "you're in bed with" or a deal. Dreams like these can expose lies we’ve believed or uncover the untrustworthiness of people in our lives.

If you’re afraid of snakes, the dream may symbolize the “lie behind the fear” you’re embracing rather than a specific person.

Finding Clarity in Context

While snakes often symbolize deception, context always rules interpretation. A snake could represent lies from the enemy or someone untrustworthy—but it may also symbolize a need for healing, as seen in the biblical example of the serpent on Moses’ pole.

Remember not to interpret your “feelings” as facts. Instead, rely on the Holy Spirit for peace and clarity. Be cautious not to become overly skeptical of others, but ask God for discernment.

Snakes in dreams are often a wake-up call to examine your beliefs, relationships, and circumstances carefully. Take the time to seek God’s wisdom to discern the truth.