Lion

In Buddhism, the lion is a symbol of strength, courage, and nobility. Often depicted as the "king of beasts," the lion embodies majesty and power, representing the fearless nature of enlightened beings.

In Buddhist art and teachings, the lion symbolizes the fearless and unwavering nature of the Buddha's teachings, which possess the strength to overcome obstacles and fears. Just as a lion fearlessly roams its territory, the teachings of Buddhism guide practitioners through the journey of life with courage and resilience.

Moreover, the lion represents the power of restraint and control over one's mind and emotions. It serves as a reminder to harness one's inner strength and to cultivate virtues like compassion, wisdom, and patience.

In some Buddhist traditions, lion imagery is used to guard sacred spaces such as temples or stupas. Sculptures or paintings of lions are placed at entrances as protectors, warding off negative influences and symbolizing the strength to resist harmful temptations.

The lion's depiction in Buddhism also signifies the unity of wisdom and compassion. Its presence in various forms of Buddhist art and teachings serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing strength with compassion and fearlessness with kindness on the path to enlightenment.