Last Updated on July 5, 2022 by Avia

Chinese Animal Symbolism: Tiger Meanings

Animal Symbolism of the Tiger in Chinese Culture: In China, the tiger is considered the king of all beasts (not the lion, as it is often considered the king of the west) and represents powerful energy.

Furthermore, 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.

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

Animal Symbolism of the Tiger in Chinese Culture

Power
Energy
Royalty
Protection
Generosity
Illumination
Unpredictability

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

“We need the tonic of wildness. We can never have too much nature.”
~Thoreau

Meaning of the Five Asian Tigers

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.

♦ 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 and also Air elementals

animal symbolism - tiger meaning in chinese culture

So the next time you wish to honor a loved one who has passed this physical realm considered the tiger as a symbol of reverence.

Or, if you are intending more wealth in your life, call upon tiger energy to help you facilitate this (hint: visualize the copper color of the tiger associated with the gleam of coins. Visual associations like these are very effective with attracting our desires.)

Lastly, as you align yourself with the seasons and cycles of Mother Nature, consider including the five Chinese tigers in your practices.

Chinese symbol meaning of Tiger is as diverse as the noble creature itself. Take the time to learn more about this amazing animal, it will be worth your investment!

I hope you enjoyed this perspective on Chinese symbolism of the tiger. Be sure to check out the links at the end of this page for more animal symbolism and totem meanings.

Tiger blessings to you!

Mighty brightly,