The Bai Hu (the white tiger, 白虎) in Chinese mythology is completely different from the current white tiger, especially the albino Bengal tiger. In Chinese mythology, it is a divine beast and represents killing.
The Bai Hu, one of the Four Symbols in ancient Chinese mythology, ranks alongside Qing Long (Azure Dragon), Zhu Que (Vermilion Bird), and Xuan Wu (Black Tortoise).
Originating from ancient constellation worship, it represents Shao Hao and the Seven Western Constellations, symbolizing the western celestial beast.
The image of Bai Hu is that of a tiger located in the west, belonging to metal and colored white, hence its name.
It is not only the god of war and slaughter but also regarded by ancients as an auspicious beast with various divine powers such as warding off evil, dispelling disasters, praying for harvests, punishing evil and promoting virtue, bringing wealth, and fostering happy marriages.
Ancients believed that when the ruler’s virtue was high and the country prosperous, Bai Hu would appear, symbolizing national auspiciousness and peace.
Bai Hu is naturally combative and unmatched in strength, with many brave generals being said to be reincarnations of the White Tiger Star, such as Tang Dynasty generals Luo Cheng and Xue Rengui.
Bai Hu is not only worshipped by the Han people but also influences many ethnic groups such as the Yi, Bai, Buyei, and Tujia.
The tiger is regarded as the king of beasts, and Bai Hu is even more a symbol of nobility and power.
However, in some ancient books, Bai Hu is also described as a fierce beast that eats humans and livestock, which does not hinder its lofty status in folk beliefs.
Last Updated on 2 months