Lion of Judah

The Lion of Judah is the symbol of the Hebrew tribe of Judah. It derives from the blessing given by Jacob to his son Judah in Genesis 49:9, in which he calls him "Young Lion."

In iconography, the Lion of Judah is usually depicted standing proudly, often with one foot lifted to hold a flag or banner.

The Lion of Judah has been used as a symbol of Jerusalem (the former capital of the Kingdom of Judah) and of Judaism.

In Christianity, the Lion of Judah is interpreted as a symbol of Jesus Christ. In Revelation 5:5, the Lion of Judah opens the book with the seven seals. Thus the lion appears as a symbol in some Christian churches and organizations.

The Lion of Judah is also a major symbol in Rastafarianism, as Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia is regarded as a king in the line of Judah. Selassie was given the title "Lion of Judah" and the symbol was featured on the Ethiopian flag.