Tigers. Lords of the jungle, these majestic creatures are known as much for their strength and ferociousness as they are for their beauty and grace. Thought to have originated in China and currently the national animal of India, tigers also hold a prominent place in the mythology and folklore of many Asian regions.
Seals depicting tigers have been found in South Asia dating all the way back several thousands of years ago — all the way to the Indus Valley Civilization! Steeped in culture, history, and even art, it is no wonder that tigers are such a popular symbol across all art forms, including as tattoo designs — but what do these stunning animals really symbolize?
In Chinese symbolism, the tiger ‘is an emblem of dignity, ferocity, sternness, courage, and by itself is Yin energy‘, as well as ‘energy, royalty, generosity, and illumination‘. Tigers are also thought of as protectors of the dead, helping them find peace as they pass on. Tigers are also often seen as a symbol of protection and is linked to the Chinese god of wealth Tsai Shen Yeh. In South Asia, the tiger is linked to Durga, the goddess of war. All these associations link the tiger to power and divinity while also highlighting the ability of humans to harness raw power and the divinity within. Traditional and tribal tattoos from these regions often feature the dragon as an important symbol.
Chinese mythology also considers the white tiger to be one of the five classical planets, Venus. The tiger is associated with the autumn season, the colour white, the cardinal direction of the west, and the element of metal. The white tiger is said to only appear when a king rules with absolute virtue and there is peace in all the lands.
Similar beliefs are held in various other parts of East Asian, including in Japan where the tiger is a popular choice for tattoos done in Irezumi, a traditional style of tattooing in Japan.
In Korea, the tiger is a guardian that drives away evil spirits and brings good luck. It is thought of as a symbol of courage. The traditional sak yant muay thai tattoos often feature the tiger as a symbol of protection, strength, power, and fearlessness for the muay thai fighters. It is considered unlucky to get these tattoos from anyone other than a Buddhist monk using a bamboo needle and is believed that the wearer will not be blessed with the sacred powers these tattoos are thought to bring. These tattoos are usually done on the back, a placement that symbolizes protection, as in ‘someone is watching your back’, as well as leaving the past in the past.
The Symbolism Behind the Tiger Tattoos
The tiger’s fierce beauty evokes several strong emotional responses. Over time, this has evolved into several types of uniquely symbolic meanings.
- Beauty
- Courage
- Cunning
- Danger
- Ferocity
- Independence
- Passion
- Power
- Protection
- Strength
- Violence
The perception of the tiger has been aided through certain Asian cultures, featuring almost as prominently as the dragon and taking residence in the Zodiac calendar. Japanese Samurai even had tigers on their crests. In Chinese folklore, tigers were protectors of the dead, and mythology associated tigers with the god of wealth. Tigers were believed to bring luck and prosperity and to ward off evil. In Korean culture, they are king of the animals.
In India, the story is less fantastic and far more gruesome. Tigers are considered violent and destructive animals, having clashed with Indian people again and again; tigers have practically wiped out entire villages in India.
The true kings of the jungle (step aside, lions) had their popularity built upon through the efforts of creatives like William Blake in the above poem and countless other artists. Carnivals and stage shows grabbed onto this excitement as time passed.
To be fair, the tiger needed little help in expanding its influence. Their prowess in the jungle, gorgeous yet practical colouration, and compact strength had earned the respect (and fear) of mankind long before carnivals and zoos and Disney movies.
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