Chinese Animal symbols hold incredible power in all cultures. So it should come as no surprise that these animalistic themes and motifs are found in every square inch of rich Chinese culture and heritage. The Chinese are excellent philosophers and observers. As such, they understand the deeper meanings of animals, and utilized the characteristics of each creature to represent traits they wish to call upon in their own lives.

Chinese animal symbols serve as reminders, charms, omens, and sentiments. They are artistically represented in drawings, embroidered on clothing, painted on houses, and formed into statues all over China as harbingers of wealth, good luck, etc.

As with all symbols, these can bring about great positive aspects into our lives. By understanding their meanings, and incorporating them into our lives, we conjure the desired aspect each symbol represents.

Tiger, as an ancient Chinese animal symbol is an emblem of dignity, ferocity, sternness, courage, and by itself is Yin energy. Also a symbol of protection, the image of a tiger is often seen on clothing or in the home to ward off harm any semblance of harm and assure safekeeping. In certain areas of China and Asia, the Tiger is regarded as the God of Wealth. Consequently, Tsai Shen Yeh, the Chinese God of Wealth is depicted sitting on a tiger. Such an image symbolizes the supremacy of the intangible forces, and our ability to harness the tiger's power in our lives.

Chinese Animal Symbolism of the Tiger

Chinese animal symbolism of the tiger deals with (but is not limited to):

Power Energy Royalty Protection Generosity Illumination Unpredictability In China, the tiger is considered the king of all beasts (not the lion) and represents powerful energy. Further, the tiger is associated with Tsai Shen Yeh, the Chinese God of Wealth, and this god is usually seen sitting on a tiger in Asian art.

Asian lore considers the tiger the protector of the dead, and will often be seen in graves as a mark of protection, assuring peace for those who have passed.

Tigers are considered a yang energy, and are also a solar animal which associates them with symbolisms of the sun, summer and fire.

In ancient Chinese myth there are five tigers that hold the balance of cosmic forces in place and prevent chaos from collapsing into the universe.

These five tigers are:

White Tiger: ruler of the Fall season and governor of the Metal elementals

Black Tiger: ruler of the Winter season and governor of the Water elementals

Blue Tiger: ruler of the Spring season and governor of the Earth elementals

Red Tiger: ruler of the Summer season and governor of the Fire elementals

Yellow Tiger: the supreme ruler of all these tigers and symbolic of the Sun

Editor: Feng Hui