With its muscular body, golden mane and thunderous roar, it’s perhaps no surprise that the lion has long been considered one of the most powerful and majestic animals on earth. As the King of the Jungle, lions symbolise power, strength and courage. But how are they portrayed in different cultures and what does this truly unique and beautiful creature mean to global societies? Let’s delve deeper. 

Ancient Civilisations 

Lions have been admired and respected by civilisations for over three million years and have made a lasting impression across the globe. In Ancient Egypt, lions were associated with war and protection; the Egyptian goddess of war, destruction and healing, Sekhmet, was often depicted as a lion-headed woman. Indeed, the name Sekhmet translates to “She Who Is Powerful” which fits in with the idea of the lion being a strong, dominant and powerful creature. 

Similarly, in Medieval Europe, lions were one of the most common and powerful symbols used in heraldry (the art of designing coats of arms). They weren’t chosen randomly - each animal carried meaning and the lion was considered the ultimate emblem of bravery, nobility and leadership. 

Asian Traditions 

In Hinduism and Buddhism, lions are sacred symbols of strength, courage and divine authority. They appear in myths, art and rituals as protectors, spiritual guides and embodiments of wisdom. In Hinduism, the goddess Durga rides a lion. This is designed to showcase her fearless  power and triumph over evil. In Buddhism, the lion’s roar itself is thought to represent the Buddha’s teachings—powerful, clear, and transformative.

In Chinese culture and tradition, the lion symbolises protection and prosperity. During Lunar New Year, famous lion dances take place with the purpose of warding off evil spirits and bringing good fortune. Many lion statues can be found outside of temples and palaces throughout the country too, symbolising vigilance and strength. 

The Lion in Africa 

Symbolism around the majestic lion runs through the core of African traditions. Lions are admired for their strength and courage once again as well as their fearlessness and power. This inspires warriors to be brave and face community challenges head on. In Zulu and Tswana, lions are linked to royal power, leadership and authority. They’re linked to strong leaders, protectors and wise figures. Lions feature prominently in art and ceremonies with lion story telling being passed down through generations. 

Modern Symbolism 

Today, lions appear regularly and serve as symbols in national anthems, popular culture and literature. In The Lion Inside, a lion and mouse story by Rachel Bright, the lion is brave and strong but even he has his own fears. Using the lion as a symbol of power and authority shows children that even those in charge can be afraid of things - and learn to overcome their fear. 

If you love The Lion Inside and other lion story books, don’t miss The Lion Inside theatre show. This stage adaptation uses puppetry, song and dance to tell the story of the mouse and the lion, and is a perfect introduction to theatre for kids aged three and up.