In many temples in Taiwan, there are shrines dedicated to the tiger deity. Commonly known as hu ye, the tiger god is an animistic deity in Taiwanese popular religion that is worshiped by the local community as a guardian to other spirits. Famed for its strength and courage, the tiger is also known to dispel misfortune and evil influences, and to protect gods from rivals and enemies.
The tiger spirit originated in China, but is probably most venerated in Taiwan, where it is often found accompanying the main god or gods in a local temple such as the City God, the Earth God, the God of Wealth, the God of War, or Matsu. Traditionally, it occupies a position under the central altar on the ground floor to placate and pacify ghosts and demons. There, worshippers pay their respects to this heavenly figure with sacrificial offerings of burning incense and a slice of raw pork, an egg or chicken, and dried tofu or fish that are thought to mimic a carnivorous animal’s diet.
Over the last year, the tiger has been honored and celebrated in Taiwan as an auspicious spirit and source of prosperity. As the year of the tiger draws to a close on January 22, the rabbit is slated to take the tiger’s place as the luckiest animal of the year.