THE GRIFFIN
Because it has a dual nature, the griffin is reminiscent of the dual nature in Christ Jesus. This mythical creature has the face, beak, talons and wings of an eagle while, at the same time, its body resembles that of the lion. In its body it is endowed with the speed, flight and penetrating vision of the eagle as well as the courage, strength and majesty of the lion. Due to these same qualities, it is recognised as king of birds and lord of the air as well as king of beasts and lord of the earth.
This helps us to understand the association with Christ: God and man as well as King of Heaven and King of earth.
The Eagle half of the griffin signified Christ’s divinity and the lion half represented His humanity. Because no one could block the path of a griffin, he is associated with Christ in the Gospel passage of Luke 4:28-32 where Christ simply passed through a crowd in Nazareth that wanted to throw Him off a cliff. During the middle Ages, griffins were associated with Christ’s resurrection. In the griffin, the strength of the lion and the wisdom of the eagle together, symbolised the strength and the wisdom of God.
Slight adaption and excerpt from:
Tucker, Suzetta. “ChristStory Griffin or Gryphon Page.” ChristStory Christian Bestiary, 1997.
http:/ww2.netnico.net/users/legend01/griffin.htm ( 4 Feb. 2014).