​Explainer: Everything You Need to Know About the Year of the Snake

By That's, January 27, 2025

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The Explainer is where we unravel the mysteries surrounding Chinese zodiac signs. So, let's delve into the captivating world of the Year of the Snake

As with all legends of the Chinese zodiac, the story begins with a great race organized by the Jade Emperor. 

Jade_Emperor__Ming_Dynasty.jpeg

Jade Emperor via Wikimedia

Each animal had to rely on its unique abilities to cross the river and earn its place in the zodiac cycle.

The snake, known for its cunning and adaptability, coiled itself around the leg of the horse and waited patiently. 

As the horse approached the finish line, the snake suddenly sprang forward, securing the sixth position in the zodiac lineup.

Birth Years

1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025

Legend-of-the-White-Snake-Story.jpgLegend of the White Snake

Snake Traits

People born in the Year of the Snake are said to embody elegance, intelligence, and an air of mystery. 

They are reflective thinkers who value privacy but are always observing their surroundings. 

Known for their grace and charm, snakes often possess an intuitive understanding of human emotions.

However, their reserved nature can sometimes be mistaken for aloofness. Despite this, snakes are deeply loyal and fiercely protective of their loved ones.

Snakes Make Excellent…

Snakes thrive in roles requiring strategic thinking and a calm demeanor. 

They excel as philosophers, researchers, and diplomats due to their analytical minds and ability to remain composed under pressure. 

Their innate wisdom also makes them adept advisors and problem-solvers.

Snake-in-Chinese-mythology.jpg

Snake in Chinese mythology

Most Compatible With…

Roosters, oxen, and dragons align well with the snake’s energy, creating harmonious and mutually supportive relationships.

Mortal Enemies With…

Pigs and tigers often clash with the snake’s calculated and composed nature.

Snake Idioms

Snake-Window-Papper-Cuttings.jpg

画蛇添足 | Huà Shé Tiān Zú | Adding Feet to a Snake

This idiom warns against overcomplicating things unnecessarily, much like an artist who ruins a drawing of a snake by adding feet.

杯弓蛇影 | Bēi Gōng Shé Yǐng | Seeing a Snake’s Shadow in a Cup

A metaphor for needless paranoia or suspicion.

蛇行鼠窜 | Shé Xíng Shǔ Cuàn | The Snake Slithers, the Mouse Scurries

A vivid way of describing stealth and rapid movement.

人心不足蛇吞象 | Rén Xīn Bù Zú Shé Tūn Xiàng | The Snake Tries to Swallow the Elephant

A cautionary tale about insatiable greed and overambition.

Famous Snakes

Many luminaries share the wisdom and allure of the snake, including J.K. Rowling, Pablo Picasso, and Oprah Winfrey. 

These figures have left a lasting legacy, embodying the snake’s qualities of intelligence, creativity, and perseverance.

Ready to embrace the wisdom of the snake? 2025 promises to be a year of reflection, growth, and transformation.


[Cover image by Billy Jiang/That's]

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