Tarot and Snakes
Welcome to Season 12 of Every Day Tarot! This season, we’re exploring the sacred bond between the tarot and our animal allies.
In this episode, we talk about the snake—a creature of transformation, healing, and deep wisdom. Feared by many but revered by mystics and healers alike, the snake reminds us to shed what no longer serves and trust in the messy magic of renewal. With ties to fertility, the underworld, sacred sexuality, and ancient power, the snake slithers through our decks with potent, symbolic force.
Let’s dig into their lore, their tarot appearances, and the lessons they bring when they show up in your life (or your deck!)
What we explore in this episode:
Snake symbolisms in myth and magic
How snake energy relates to certain tarot archetypes
The message of the snake: transformation and temptation, healing and danger—there is wisdom in what we fear, and power in what we’re ready to release.
Snake Symbolism in Myth & Magic
Snakes are liminal creatures—earthbound yet fluid, feared yet revered. Across spiritual traditions, they hold a variety of meanings:
Symbols of fertility and the life force
Guardians of sacred knowledge
Emissaries of healing and medicine (see: the ouroboros and caduceus)
Tempting figures of sensuality or deception
Protectors of royalty and power (cobras in Egyptian crowns)
Carriers of duality: wisdom and danger, life and death
In magic and witchcraft, snakes are associated with transformation, underworld journeys, and radical change. Their presence can invite you to release old beliefs, confront hidden fears, and honor the sacredness of your own evolution.
Decks referenced:
Anima Mundi Tarot Deck by Megan Wyreweden
The Goddess of Love Tarot Deck: A Book and Deck for Embodying The Erotic Divine Feminine by Gabriela Herstik and illustrated by Julia Popescu, who also goes by snakes4hair
Tarot Cards Featuring Snake Energy:
Snakes are surprisingly common across many decks. Here are some key archetypes and appearances:
The Magician (Ophidia Rosa Tarot)
Features the ouroboros, a snake eating its own tail. It is a symbol of eternal cycles, creation, and wholeness.
Death (Anima Mundi Tarot)
A death adder sheds its skin, reminding us that transformation can be painful—but necessary. Letting go leads to new beginnings.
Wheel of Fortune (Goddess of Love Tarot)
Sheela-na-Gig, a Celtic goddess of life and rebirth, is framed by a snake, speaking to cycles of fate and the inevitability of change.
Other snake sightings:
Therapist Who Tarot: Lovers, Strength, Emperor, Justice
Goddess of Love Tarot: Crone of Wands, 10 of Pentacles, 3 of Pentacles
Ophidia Rosa Tarot: 2 of Cups, 3 of Swords, 4 of Swords, 7 of Swords, Queen of Swords
Whether they coil through court cards or wind through the major arcana, snake energy often signals a threshold moment: transformation, temptation, wisdom, or warning.
If you haven't listened to my other seasons yet, go check them out!
Season 1 - Tarot basics
Seasons 2 & 3 - Major Arcana and 4 suits
Season 4 - Tarot in Pop Culture
Season 5 - Tarot Spreads
Season 6 - Suit of Wands
Season 7 - Suit of Pentacles
Season 8 - Suit of Swords
Season 9 - Suit of Cups
Season 10 - Tarot and Witchcraft
Season 11 - Tarot and Plant Allies
💭 Today's Tarot Pull:
From It’s Grow Time oracle deck by Chantel Davis Gray, I pulled “List three people you’d love to work with and start connecting with them.”
This do good card reminds us that growth isn’t always solitary. Snake energy can feel inward and protective, but this card nudges us to initiate connections. Collaboration is a form of transformation—letting others witness your evolving magic.
Reflective prompts on this card:
Who inspires you, and how might you begin weaving a connection?
What old fears or impostor stories need shedding before you reach out?
Where can collaboration help you evolve your work, voice, or purpose?
A 12-Week Tarot for Transformation Journey
Starting in late August, I’m inviting you to join me for a 12-week live course based on Tarot for Transformation!
We’ll spend three months together, working through the major arcana as archetypal guides. Each week, we’ll:
Focus on one major arcana card and the life themes it highlights.
Explore journaling prompts and exercises from Dreya Blume’s book.
Share experiences and support each other in a safe, witchy, and affirming space.
Participate in live one-hour calls (with replays available if you can’t join live).
This is not just about learning tarot — it’s about using tarot as a vessel for real, meaningful change in your life.
If you've ever longed for a supportive community to explore big personal shifts, or if you’re ready to commit to discovering your most authentic self, this journey is for you.
You can sign up to receive more information (no FOMO!). We’re planning to begin at the end of August, so there’s plenty of time to get ready.
Ways to Connect & Support:
Get my Tarot Card Creation Workshop including the full hour long recording with my step by step method, examples of the tarot cards I’ve created, journaling questions, and PDF to walk you through it for just $33. Click here to purchase now!
I’m going to be offering a 12-week Tarot for Transformation Live course this summer where we will be deep diving into the Major Arcana to Discover Our Best Selves and Create a Life Worth Living. If you’re interested, sign up here for more information!
Patreon: For new moon readings, tarot Q&As, individual card pulls, and behind-the-scenes peeks, join the Every Day Tarot Patreon family.
Newsletter: Get my FREE 2025 5-Card Tarot Spread PDF + weekly musings, event invites, and magic straight to your inbox.
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Book a Consultation: I’m a sex & relationships therapist working virtually across Washington. I specialize in helping queer, kinky, polyamorous, and witchy folks navigate anxiety, chronic illness, communication, and identity work. If you’re looking for a therapist and I seem like a good fit, please reach out and book a free consultation: camilleasaunders.com