Lion
Lion - In Buddhism the lion is a protector of temples and other holy palaces, and the protector of Buddha Wen Shu, the left side servant of Sakyamuni. In China, the lion is identical to the Fo Dog (Dog of Happiness) and is said to be the endorsement of the law. Lions and Fo Dogs plays a big part in Chinese folklore and are usually depicted looking more mythical than real. Pairs of stone lions are popular as guardians of buildings and temples for one thing since they are "bringing in good energy" according to feng chui. In those cases one has its right front paw stepping on a ball made of strips of silk and the other, with its front paw on a small lion cub. Sometimes two lions are seen playing with a ball made of strips of silk. During festivals there are dancing lions symbolizing joy. The lion is one of the four Animals of Power and emblem of Military Officials 2nd Grade.
See also: Symbols: Animals
