Significance of Tiger skin
Synonyms: Tiger hide
In Dutch: Tijgerhuid; In Finnish: Tiikerin iho; In Spanish: Piel de tigre; In German: Tigerfell; In Swedish: Tigerskinn; In Malay: Kulit harimau; In French: Peau de tigre
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Tiger skin'
In Buddhism, tiger skin symbolizes power and ferocity, often depicted as a garment on ferocious deities of the Dharmapala, representing their strength and transcendence over base animalistic instincts.
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) An emblematic garment often depicted on deities, symbolizing power, ferocity, and transcendence over animalistic tendencies.[1] (2) A material that often covers the lower body of the ferocious deities of the Dharmapala, symbolizing power and ferocity.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Tiger skin'
In Hinduism, tiger skin symbolizes power and authority, used in rituals, thrones, deities' attire, and royal decorations, reflecting strength, ferocity, and luxury, as seen in various ceremonial contexts and sacred narratives.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Symbolic decor on the chariots that signifies ferocity and strength.[3] (2) The material used to cased Karna's chariot, which is described vividly to convey the grandeur and ferocity of his appearance in battle.[4] (3) Material used to cover Yudhishthira's royal car, enhancing its luxurious appearance.[5] (4) Decorations used to cover the sides of the cars in Duryodhana’s army.[6] (5) Material used for decor on the cars, indicating wealth and the ferocity associated with the warriors.[7]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A decorative mat made from tiger skin that was spread on the seat of the chariot.[8]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A decorative material used for embellishing Shamvara's car, symbolizing power and ferocity.[9]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) A luxurious and powerful material often used as a coverlet for thrones, symbolizing authority.[10]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) An item spread in front of the hearth, symbolizing Soma’s beauty and a connection to Indra as he transforms into a tiger.[11]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A ceremonial mat or covering used by the king during rituals, symbolizing power and royalty.[12]
Jain concept of 'Tiger skin'
In Jainism, tiger skin symbolizes a distinctive attire of Bhutas, enhancing their wild and fantastical presence, reflecting the spiritual and mystical aspects associated with these supernatural beings.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A type of attire worn by some Bhutas, contributing to their wild and fantastical appearance.[13]
The concept of Tiger skin in local and regional sources
Tiger skin symbolizes the appearance Shiva experienced during his avatar, representing power, ferocity, and protection. It embodies the transformation and divine nature linked to Shiva's presence and role in Hindu mythology.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The appearance that Shiva beheld when he became an avatar.[14]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A symbol of strength and power, adorning one half of the waist.[15]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The sender wants to acquire a couple of tiger skins to give as presents to their European friends.[16]