How was the zalktis, or green snake, connected with the souls of the dead?

In ancient Baltic traditions, the zalktis (or žaltys), a harmless green snake, was widely believed to be a dwelling place for the souls of the dead. Because of this connection, the snake was treated with great reverence, and special care was taken to provide it with food to ensure the welfare of the departed.1

While the zalktis served as a vessel for these spirits, it was also deeply intertwined with concepts of fertility, wealth, and sexual symbolism. It was considered a "sentinel of the gods" and a favorite of Saule, the sun goddess. Due to its auspicious nature, households would often keep a zalktis in a dedicated corner of the home, offering it meals to secure prosperity and avoid misfortune. Killing such a snake was strictly forbidden and was believed to invite severe consequences, such as paralysis or other great calamities.213