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.