What Does the Snake and Staff Symbol Mean? Today we easily recognize the symbol of snake and stick. This symbol associated with medicine and treatment is seen in many different places around the world. From doctor’s prescriptions, ambulances to pharmaceutical companies and employees’ uniforms. It is even visible in the logo of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Interestingly, there are two versions of this symbol or logo. One has a staff surrounded by two intertwined snakes and a pair of wings. In the other, a single snake is wrapped around the staff. But why do we associate snakes with medicine, even though their bite is fatal? Both the snake and staff symbols have their roots in ancient Greek mythology. But they refer to different sources. Let’s look at the history of each to know more…
Single snake and rod from Asclepius
The symbol showing a snake wrapped around a rod comes from Asclepius, the ancient Greek god of medicine and healing. It is called the Aesculapian Rod. The ancient Greeks revered Asclepius for his amazing skills in healing and medicine. According to Greek myth, he could heal the seriously ill and even raise the dead. Throughout his life, Asclepius had a strong connection with snakes. So they became his universal symbol. The ancient Greeks believed that snakes were sacred creatures with healing powers. This was because their venom had healing powers. While their ability to shed their skin seemed like an act of regeneration, rebirth, and renewal. So, it makes sense that this amazing creature is their god of healing.
read this also- Why did violence erupt in Britain over kidnapping of a child from the family, why is bad parenting a crime, why are only Asians targeted?
Healing powers from snakes
According to Greek mythology, Asclepius learned some of his healing powers from snakes. According to one story, he intentionally killed a snake so he could see how another snake would resurrect it using herbs. From this, Asclepius learned how to resurrect dead people. According to another story, Asclepius managed to save a snake’s life. To say thank you, the snake quietly whispered into Asclepius’ ear and told him its healing secrets. The Greeks also believed that Asclepius had the ability to heal people from deadly snakebites. There were a lot of snakes in ancient Greece, so this skill came in handy.
Hermes has a winged snake and staff
The second symbol has two twirling snakes with a rod and a pair of wings above them. This is called the caduceus. The rod in the middle belongs to Hermes, who was the messenger between gods and humans. The wings represent Hermes’ ability to fly between heaven and earth. According to one myth, the Greek god Apollo gave Hermes the rod. In another myth, it was Zeus who gave Hermes the caduceus, which was surrounded by two twirling white ribbons. When Hermes used the rod to separate two fighting snakes, they coiled around him perfectly. Thus, this famous logo was born.
Also read- Explainer: Terrorism suddenly increased in Jammu? What is the reason behind the change in strategy of terrorist groups
Hermes did not have any powers
Unlike Asclepius, Hermes was not actually able to heal or restore life. But his snake and staff symbol became a popular medical symbol. This was probably because a group of 7th century alchemists claimed to be the sons of Hermes. These alchemists adopted the symbol even though they resorted to magic rather than actual medical treatment. The US Army adopted the symbol of Hermes for its Medical Corps. Many medical organizations followed suit.
It is also possible that somewhere along the way the Caduceus of Hermes was confused with the Aesculapian Rod. More recently, the Aesculapian Rod has become a medical symbol. However the Caduceus of Hermes still appears from time to time. It is a very striking and instantly recognizable symbol. As you can see on US military commemoratives.
Tags: Ayurveda Doctors, Latest Medical news, Medical
FIRST PUBLISHED : July 20, 2024, 11:02 IST