käärmeen

Käärmeen is a Finnish word that translates to "snake" in English. In Finnish folklore and mythology, snakes hold various symbolic meanings. They can be associated with the underworld, fertility, healing, and wisdom. Sometimes, snakes are depicted as guardians of treasures or sacred places. Certain ancient myths tell of primordial snakes or serpents that played a significant role in the creation of the world.

The image of a snake is also present in Finnish traditional art and amulets, often believed to offer protection. In some rural traditions, specific snake encounters were interpreted as omens or messages from the spiritual realm. While snakes are generally respected, they can also be viewed with a degree of caution due to their potential danger. The term "käärmeen" itself, in its genitive form, is frequently used in phrases like "käärmeen vuosi" (year of the snake) when referencing the Chinese zodiac which has been adopted in some Finnish contexts, or in idiomatic expressions.