From the 31st January 2022, we entered the
Year of the Water Tiger according to the Chinese zodiac.
Each year I acknowledge the transitional vibration of the Chinese New Year; reading around the energetic impact each animal, and their subsequent element, ushers in.
Painting the tiger was an intuitive response. It felt right and I was so dam happy while I painted. Everything about this painting speaks to me, I love the colours, the energy it exudes and the composition. Yes, I’m utterly thrilled with how it turned out.
‘Tiger peers into the pool of water and finds her own pure soul gazing back.’
Text from the art description.
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While the Year of the Tiger has been the trigger to instigate this piece of art, it isn’t the only reason for its creation.
My Spiritual belief system is a bit of a mash up of aspects from different cultures and practices. I avoid gaining a particular title for my beliefs; enjoying the fluidity, growth and evolution as I expand my knowledge and practice.
The basis for my beliefs is largely ‘whatever resonates’ with my inner most self. And the reason I’m telling you this; is because of how I feel about tigers.
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Tigers are special. So primal yet filled with grace, wielding enormous strength and still traverse the world with respect for all that is.
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At their most basic level, they represent strength and fearlessness. Dreaming about tigers can mean ‘something that scares you’ and possibly that you need to face it (however, that’s for the dreamer to conclude).
Tigers are grounded and have a steady presence.
Native American symbolism
Now obviously there aren’t many actual tigers kicking around on a reservation. So, in this instance, tiger means any large animal like a cougar, mountain lion or puma (there are likely more examples).
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Tigers have several meanings; with two examples being: as Totems for families or Totem Animals. In all instances the presence of the tiger is positive and signifies strength, power, courage, ambition, truth, justice, integrity, leadership, physical grace… Now I don’t know about you, but all these words really do describe how I feel about tigers’, and I would be honoured to have that connection.
Native American lore also has the tiger as ‘a great teacher’, with which I completely resonate.
Eastern tiger symbolism
Again, the tiger is revered. While there is awe for their beauty, there remains great respect for its considerable power.
Hinduism uses the tiger as the symbol of a vehicle for a great female deity. While in China, the markings around the tiger’s head are used for a character named ‘Wang,’ which means King. Children born in the Year of the Tiger are painted with symbols to represent this and to donate valour, strength, and good health.
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There are many more belief systems, including Celtic and Christianity, that cherish this beautiful creature, should you wish to look them up.
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Away from cultural beliefs and symbolism, globally there is still plenty of adulation for this magnificent beast. Truly, they stunning!
What concerns me, despite all this reverence; is the endangered status of tigers. How can we both adore and still destroy? Out of the 9 tiger subspecies, three are already extinct and the remaining 6 massively effected by the activities of humanity. Yes, my frustration is thoroughly triggered.
The need for balance between progress and respect for all life and environment can no longer be ignored or delayed. Like the tiger, we hold great power and it is beyond time to only wield it with integrity and compassion.
Until next time, be the light you seek from others.
Love and light…
Elaine x
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