what does saja mean in korean

In Korean, the word "saja" (사자) has two primary meanings. Literally, it means "lion," which symbolizes strength and power. However, it also has a deeper cultural meaning related to Korean folklore as a shorthand for "Jeoseung Saja" (저승사자), which means the "messenger of the afterlife" or "grim reaper," a figure that guides souls to the afterlife. This dual meaning gives the word "saja" both a literal and symbolic significance depending on the context.