Snake Salvation

National Geographic's mini-series, Snake Salvation, released in the year 2013, is a visceral and enthralling exploration of an incredibly unique religious practice in the Appalachian Mountains. The show thrusts audiences into the riveting world of snake handling churches, a little-known, century-old denomination of American Pentecostal Christianity, where venomous snakes are used in worship to demonstrate faith and obedience to God. The series explores the curious intersections of faith, danger, and the enigma of religious fanaticism, all woven together in a fascinating narrative that is both shocking and subtly stirring.

Snake Salvation centers around two charismatic pastors, "Pastor Jamie Coots and Pastor Andrew Hamblin", hailing from the states of Kentucky and Tennessee, respectively. Unlike their mainstream counterparts, Coots and Hamblin lead services that are far from conventional. Their congregation participates in praise and worship, prayers, and scripture readings, as seen in many other church services. However, it's in the inclusion of venomous snakes - rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths, as central elements in their religious practice where the stark deviation lies.

The show carefully documents the pastors' struggle to maintain their religious beliefs and way of life in the face of mounting external pressures. Not only must they wrestle with their own intense faith, risking their lives every time they participate in a snake handling service, but they also grapple with societal scorn, legal issues, and even the dire health risks that come with potential venomous snakebites. It’s a nuanced exploration of the lengths some people are willing to go for their faith.

What’s particularly noteworthy about Snake Salvation is that it does not sensationalize or exploit the unusual ritual of snake handling. Instead, it offers a respectful, balanced portrayal of the practitioners, celebrating their dedication and commitment to their faith while thoughtfully critiquing the inherent dangers and harsh realities of their practices. It further delves into the societal forces that push these religious stalwarts toward extremism and danger: poverty, lack of education, isolation and the desire for a sense of community and identity.

National Geographic, as always, goes all out in capturing the stunning landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains, contrasting its breathtaking beauty with the unnerving practices being conducted within. We are taken into homes, churches, backwaters, forests and throughout the wider community, enabling viewers to gain a better understanding of the cultural and geographical landscape that breeds such distinctive religious practices.

As with any religion, tradition and scripture play a pivotal role and Snake Salvation delves deep into the origins and interpretations of snake handling, uncovering a tradition rooted in the Bible's book of Mark, Chapter 16, verses 17-18. This series, primarily a sociological and spiritual study, becomes a riveting history lesson, fiscal assessment, and a whirlwind tour into cultural anthropology.

Snake handling, as sensational as it may seem, is not just about the drama and shock value. The pastors of Snake Salvation passionately advocate that it’s about faith and the unwavering belief in God's protection. With this in mind, the show ventures to unravel the psyche of its believers, providing an intriguing examination of the human condition and belief systems.

The characters in the series are compelling, especially the two pastors who emerge as resolute, engaging, and fascinatingly complex individuals. They are portrayed not as reckless daredevils, but as religious leaders who truly believe they are following a divine command. Snake Salvation introduces viewers to a world rarely seen and hard to forget.

In no uncertain terms, Snake Salvation is a look into a world where faith and fear coexist, capturing a slice of American religious life that challenges, shocks, and ultimately compels viewers to grapple with their own understanding of faith, risk, and spirituality. Despite its inherent strangeness and danger, the series imbues the narrative with a palpable humanity, refraining from judgment or parody, serving instead a humble homage to freedom of religious expression and the endless diversity of human belief systems.

Whether or not you agree with their practices, Snake Salvation offers an enthralling exploration into a world largely unknown, shedding light on this obscured subculture with respect, curiosity, and an open mind. This 2013 series from National Geographic is more than just a documentary, it's a gripping tale of faith, resilience, and sacrifice.