Snowlion

Name of a mythological animal from Tibet, where it is the national emblem said to represent the snowy mountains, and believed to range over the Himalayas (fig.). In iconography, it is usually depicted with a white fur and green manes. It symbolizes strength and power, the East and the Earth element, as well as bravery and heavenly bliss. In popular culture, it is considered to be so powerful that just a single roar of the Snowlion could cause seven dragons to fall from the sky. The milk of the Snowlioness is allegedly produced from its paws and is believed to contain medicinal properties. This and its purity is hence a symbol for the Dhamma. In Tibetan Buddhism, the Snowlion is one of the Four Dignities and as such usually appears on Buddhist prayer flags (fig.). It is the mount of the wealth god Jambhala (fig.) and its roar symbolizes the sound of emptiness, courage and truth, and is hence by some interpreted to be a synonym for the Dhamma, which is reminiscent of the Thai mythological lion called singh (fig.) and the Burmese simha, which in Therevada Buddhism are considered the protectors of the Dhamma, and in that way are often found as guardians at temple entrances. In addition, Chinese Guardian Lions, called Rui Shi (fig.), as well as the lions used in the Chinese Lion Dance (fig.), are often fashioned to resemble Snowlions, though in Tibet a similar dance exists that uses authentic copies of the genuine Snowlion, i.e. white with green manes. According to folklore, the Snowlion likes to play with the Gankyil. Also spelled Snow Lion and Snow-lion. 回