2010: Year of the tiger

year of the tiger
Originally uploaded by trudeau

Symbolizing invincibility, power and might, the tiger is a highly potent symbol used across many cultures in Asia. It is a particularly popular symbol in the art of Japan, says About.com.

Passion, ferocity, sensuality, speed and beauty are some of the things that the tiger is associated with in Japan. The animal is also known for its cruelty and wrath. According to Japanese tradition if you see a tiger in a dream it denotes the coming of a new power your way.

The tiger pretty much takes the kingly position held by the lion in Europe. The tiger symbol has been used for many different purposes in the Japanese tradition. From being a symbol to ward off evil it has also been a symbol that represents the destructive qualities of evil.

It is also given as a gift to the newly married couples as well as children that reach the age of puberty.

People born in the year of the tiger are believed to be emotional, sensitive and loving. At the same time they are considered to be stubborn and self centered.

If you look at the Japanese pronunciation for "tiger," you might remember a movie called "Tora Tora Tora" which was the code word used to initiate the attack on Pearl Harbor. It simply means "Tiger Tiger Tiger".