Snake handling

Snake handling can refer to various practices, including religious rituals and professional activities. Here's an overview based on insights from the Stuff You Should Know podcast episodes.

Religious Snake Handling

• Origins and Beliefs: Religious snake handling, also known as holiness serpent handling, originated in 1910 in Tennessee with a preacher named George Hensley. He interpreted a verse from Mark 16:18 literally, which led him to pick up snakes as a demonstration of faith. This practice became part of a sect within Pentecostalism called the Church of God of Signs Following 1 2.
• Practices: Followers believe they are commanded by God to handle snakes to show their obedience. They often enter a state of religious ecstasy, handling snakes without any safety precautions, kissing them, and sometimes wearing them like crowns. They believe that if they are bitten, seeking medical treatment would indicate a lack of faith. For instance, George Hensley was bitten multiple times and refused treatment, ultimately resulting in his death 2 3.
  • 

    1

    Snake Handling Insights

    00:07:36
  • 

    2

    Religious Snake Handling

    00:25:20
  • 

    3

    Religious Snake Handling

    00:28:08
  • 

    4

    Religious Snake Handling

    00:25:18
  • 

    5

    Religious Snake Handling

    00:28:10
  • 

    6

    Snake Handling Insights

    00:07:58
  • 

    7

    Serpent Handling Reality

    00:06:09
• Legal and Social Aspects: Despite the risks, these practices continue in Appalachia, from Ohio to Florida. Laws exist that implicitly or explicitly prohibit snake handling, yet they are rarely enforced due to religious liberties 4 5.

Professional Snake Handling

• Herpetologists and Snake Milkers: Professionals who handle snakes for scientific, medical, or educational purposes are known as herpetologists, snake milkers, veterinarians, and rescue workers. They use safety tools such as extension tools, tongs, or snake hooks to maintain a safe distance from the snakes 6 1.
• Safety and Training: Unlike religious handlers, professionals prioritize safety and proper training. They handle snakes to milk venom, conduct research, or relocate them from inhabited areas. Proper identification and knowledge about snake behavior and venom potency are crucial for reducing risks 7.

For more detailed information on snake handling, refer to episodes like "How Snake Handlers Work" from the Stuff You Should Know podcast.