Tiger God(虎爺)
The Tiger God, also known as “Hu Ye” in Taiwan’s folk religion and in Chinese folk beliefs, is a deity depicted in the form of a tiger. Commonly referred to as “Hu Ye Gong,” “Tiger General,” or respectfully as the “General Below the Altar,” the Tiger God holds a significant place in the pantheon of local deities.
It is often said, “The local earth god governs the tiger in the mountains,” indicating that the Tiger God initially served as a mount or companion to mountain deities, earth gods, or city guardian deities. Over time, this role evolved to encompass being a companion to deities such as Wang Ye and Ma Zu, and the Tiger God also assumed the responsibility of protecting specific regions, villages, cities, and temple precincts.
Comments