The Tiger, the third sign of the Chinese zodiac, is thought of as the ruler of beasts on Earth, in contrast to the Dragon, which is ruler of the beasts of the sky. Those born in the year of the Tiger (1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986 1998 or 2010) are courageous and optimistic, tolerant, humanistic and generous. They are independent, can expect a long life and were born to command not obey.

The Chinese Tiger is a yang animal and is associated with the potent male principles of courage, bravery, dignity and sternness. It is sometimes known as "king of the mountains" and it is said it has the power to drive away demons.

Chinese paintings depicting a Tiger are often hung on a wall inside of a building, facing the entrance. This arrangement makes it so "demons" are scared away and can not enter. Feng Shui practitioners often like to use the ch'i of the Tiger in this form. In ancient China, the Tiger was the principle animal god and was known as the Guardian Spirit of Agriculture, which was believed to devour the Drought Demon.

It was believed Tigers turned white after 500 years, could live for 1,000 years, and upon the Tiger's death, its spirit would enter the earth and became Amber. In fact, the original Chinese term for Amber was "Soul of the Tiger".

The Tiger symbolizes upholding justice while exorcising the evil. People often intend to avoid misfortune by means of pillows, hats and shoes in the shape of the head of a tiger. For thousands of years, the Tiger has been recognized in Chinese culture as a symbol of force, auspice, and avoiding evil. People usually hang a painting entitled "Five Blessings (Tigers)" in a main part of their home, hoping for security.