Tiger, Tora Considered to be the supreme of all land animals by the Chinese, representing strength, courage and long life. Tigers are also said to be able to ward off bad luck, disease and Demons. In many old prints you will see a tiger fighting demons [Oni] at the side of “SHOKI” The demon queller. It’s said also that wearing a tiger pelt on your back will take away all aches, pains and heal sickness. Tigers are one of the four sacred animals, symbol of the North, season of Autumn and control the winds.
Hawks Represent Boldness, bravery, figthing spirit and nobility. There is an old proverb that says “No Aru Taka Wa Tume Okasuku” A wise hawk hides its talents. So the symbol of the hawk is used to describe a person that has much talent, but is modest about their abilities.
Snake, Hebi They are said to have supernatural abilities, such as protection against illness, disaster, bad fortune and like the dragon can bring rain. Snakes have the ability to transform themselves into human forms, usually that of a vengeful, jealous or wronged woman. One of the best stories of this transformation is in the tragic story of Kiyoshime and the priest Anchin. Not all Snake myths are bad, many shop owners have the image, of a snake, coiled around a mallet hanging near the entrance, this is to bring good fortune and prosperity.
![Tiger, ToraConsidered to be the supreme of all land animals by the Chinese, representing strength, courage and long life. Tigers are also said to be able to ward off bad luck, disease and Demons. In many old prints you will see a tiger fighting demons [Oni] at the side of “SHOKI” The demon queller. It’s said also that wearing a tiger pelt on your back will take away all aches, pains and heal sickness. Tigers are one of the four sacred animals, symbol of the North, season of Autumn and control the winds.](http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2el4tQ5uu1qf96c5o1_500.jpg)
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