Islamic Interpretation
In a dream, a snake represents an enemy, open or hidden, and often symbolizes jealousy, envy, deceit, perfidy, and avowed hostility. It may also signify power, wealth, property, or a person of influence whose intentions are harmful. A snake can represent an enemy from one’s family, such as in-laws or children, or the envy and malice of a neighbor. A snake seen dwelling in a valley represents a person who lives in such a place. A sleeping snake signifies a dormant or inactive enemy. For an unjust person, a water snake indicates receiving assistance, support, or a decisive judgment. Owning a snake in a dream signifies gaining authority, power, or dominance over others. Eating its flesh represents taking wealth from an enemy or experiencing joy and benefit at the enemy’s expense. Wearing the skin of a snake means openly revealing one’s enmity. Killing a snake and staining one’s hands with its blood signifies complete victory over an enemy. A snake also represents a wealthy enemy, for its poison symbolizes money. Seeing snakes being killed in the streets indicates war or widespread conflict. A small snake represents a young child. Hunting snakes signifies deceiving or outwitting one’s enemies. A black snake represents a powerful and dangerous enemy, while a white snake signifies a weak one. If a snake speaks kindly, it means benefiting from or enjoying pleasant dealings with an adversary. If it speaks harshly, it signifies suffering oppression or tyranny at the enemy’s hands. Becoming a snake in a dream means falling into contempt toward one’s religion. Seeing oneself as half snake and half human indicates neutralizing half of an enemy’s strength. Discovering a snake skin made of gold signifies uncovering a hidden treasure. If a snake swallows a person, it means attaining a powerful position. A snake resting on one’s head signifies gaining respect and recognition from people in authority. A field filled with snakes represents destructive rainfall. A horned snake signifies a profitable business venture. Black snakes and pythons symbolize army generals, while water snakes represent money. Seeing one’s garden overrun with snakes indicates abundance and an exceptionally fruitful harvest. A snake emerging from its hole signifies the birth of a son. A snake leaving one’s house signifies its ruin or demolition. Killing a snake may also signify marriage. Tapeworms and intestinal worms represent one’s relatives and their children. Seeing snakes eating at one’s table signifies separation between friends. Desert snakes symbolize highway robbers. In summary, a snake or serpent in a dream represents hostility, deceit, envy, hidden danger, worldly power, or wealth, and its exact meaning depends on its behavior, color, size, and interaction with the dreamer. (Also see Belt, Sting)