In the Western Han Dynasty. Indian missionaries came to China. Brought Buddhism and lions to China. Coupled with the strong admiration of rulers such as Wu Zetian at that time. Make the lion's influence in the folk deeper, after the later development. There will be a pair of stone lions in front of many houses.
They are at different levels. Tigers belong to one of the four legendary beasts. Because the tiger is guarding the west. It is also called the white tiger. And the legendary lion. It is the mount of many immortals. He is an animal on horseback. So the tiger sat at home and the lion watched the door.
Moreover, the lion is lucky and can predict disaster. According to legend, lions can predict disasters in advance. In case of floods, earthquakes and other disasters, the eyes of stone lions will turn red, so people can take refuge in advance.
The ancients guarded the gate with stone lions, similar to the role of Shi Gandang. It is used to watch the house, ward off evil spirits, restrain bad luck and protect the peace of the village. Therefore, using stone lions to close the gate can ward off evil spirits and resist the harm caused by monsters, which shows people's psychological requirements for praying for peace.
It is a symbol of power. Stone lions can suppress wealth and prevent it from flowing out. Can be passed on to future generations. Moreover, it is a lion, which is generally more powerful. You can show your authority and status. So there are no stone lions at the door of the poor.
Stone lions have ornamental value. Stone lions come in many shapes. And its craft is very exquisite. There are magnificent shapes and lovely ones. It is very grateful.
Shishi is easy to tame. Tigers are the opposite. There is a phenomenon that tigers eat people. So people love tigers, but they are also afraid. So tigers are not suitable.