🐍 Ouroboros Meaning: The Mythical Serpent That Devours Time

What is the Ouroboros and why do people wear it today?
This ancient symbol — a serpent swallowing its own tail — carries powerful meaning across mythology, alchemy, and spiritual traditions. In this post, we explore the Ouroboros meaning, origins, and why it remains a compelling symbol in jewelry, tattoos, and modern mysticism.

🔮 What Is the Ouroboros Symbol?

The Ouroboros (from the Greek oura meaning "tail" and boros meaning "eating") is the image of a snake or dragon consuming its own tail, forming a circle. It represents the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth — the idea that all endings are beginnings in disguise.

It’s more than just a visual:
It’s a spiritual symbol of wholeness, transformation, and the unity of all things.

⚔️ Origins of Ouroboros in Mythology

1. Ouroboros in Norse Mythology – Jörmungandr

In Norse legends, the Ouroboros is mirrored in the story of Jörmungandr, the Midgard Serpent. So massive it encircles the world, Jörmungandr holds its tail until the day of Ragnarök — the end of the world and the beginning of a new one.

Symbolism: Cosmic balance, destruction as renewal, eternal return.

2. Ouroboros in Ancient Egypt

Appearing in tomb scrolls and sacred cosmology, the serpent in Egyptian myth often encircles the sun god Ra’s boat as it journeys through the night sky. The Ouroboros here is the guardian of transition, guiding the eternal cycle between light and shadow, life and afterlife.

Symbolism: Protection, infinity, resurrection.

3. Ouroboros in Alchemy and Occult Philosophy

In Western esoteric tradition, the Ouroboros is a key symbol of alchemy. It expresses the idea that everything is connected — "the One is All" — and that true transformation must begin within.

Symbolism: Spiritual rebirth, personal evolution, the path of the inner fire.

🛡️ Why the Ouroboros Symbol Still Matters

Today, the Ouroboros is worn and honored by many seeking deeper meaning in their journey — whether through jewelry, tattoos, or meditative symbols.