The serpent is a universal symbol which can be male or female, or it can be self-created. It can signify death or destruction or conversely life and also rejuvenation. It is the instinctive nature and equally is also potential energy. When the power of the instinctive nature is understood and harnessed we come to terms with our own sexuality and sensuality and are able to make use of the higher and more spiritual energies that become available. In a man?s dream a serpent or snake may appear if he has not understood the feminine or intuitive part of himself, or when he doubts his own masculinity. In a woman?s dream the serpent may manifest if she is afraid of sex, or sometimes of her own ability to seduce others. Because of its connection with the Garden of Eden, the serpent is the symbol of duplicity and trickery and also of temptation. Also consult the entry for Snake in this section.