Chinese Symbols

CHINESE ZODIAC SYMBOLS

Like the western zodiac, the Chinese zodiac also comprises of twelve symbols. However, unlike western astrology, the symbols do not correspond to months within a year but to a longer cycle of twelve years. Each symbol extends over a whole year, and confers to any person born in that year its specific attributes. The twelve symbols of the Chinese zodiac are the Rat, the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, Horse, Lamb, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Why specifically these animals? According to the myth, the Jade Emperor had ordered a race between the animals. They were lined up on the bank of a river and were given the task of getting to the opposite bank. The ox, steady and hardworking, took the lead but unbeknownst to him, the cunning rat had jumped over his back. Just before reaching the shore, the rat jumped ahead and won the race. The tiger and the dragon protested against this, and so to pacify them, the Jade Emperor gave them the title of “King of Mountains” and “King of Rivers” respectively. By order of their arrival, they formed the Chinese Zodiac starting with the rat and ending with the pig.

The Rat

While the rat is considered as a frightening vermin in the West, in the East, they are considered to be the companions of the gods. People born in the year of the rat have the following characteristics: ambitious, charismatic, intelligent and generous (to family and friends). They may be somewhat keen on conserving their resources.

The Ox

The ox is associated with power and is a symbol of quiet strength and kindness. People born under this sign are considered to be calm and dependable. They are modest and are capable of enduring the most difficult situations without any complaint. They are logical and systematic but do not have any imagination. They are persistent and deviate from the course of actions they have decided.

The Tiger

People associate the tiger with strength, power, speed and aggressiveness. It is the supreme animal image. People of this sign are typically charismatic and born leaders. They cherish new challenges and thrive on the unexpected. They enjoy exploration of new feelings. They are usually frank and optimistic but become hostile when cornered.

The Rabbit

The rabbit is associated with fertility owing to its ability to procreate. In China, the rabbit was considered a yin symbol (feminine, passive, dark, cold, wet) and an sign of good luck. People born of this sign become reserved, cultured and well-mannered. They do not enjoy new situations and are risk-averse.

The Dragon

For the Chinese, the Dragon is certainly the most auspicious and powerful symbol. Dragons control the forces of nature, especially rain and thunder. People of this sign are considered to be more powerful and lucky than anyone else. They can be ego-centric.

The Snake

Snakes inspire both fear and hope in people. People born under this sign are mysterious but are thinkers and philosophers. They enjoy a good conversation, especially if the counterpart is intelligent.

The Horse

People born in the year of the horse are independent-minded and determined. They show considerable wit, and are quite curious. They are intelligent and cunning. They are, however, not good at keeping secrets as a result of their natural exuberance.

The Goat/Lamb

The she-goat is associated with the lightening god in China. It is considered as a blessing for herdsmen. People of this sign are creative and artistic. They are sympathetic and sensitive.

The Monkey

While people can see the monkey as a foolish creature, its outward demeanor is a deception, hiding its inherent wisdom. People of the Monkey sign are versatile and possess many talents. They are honest, reliable and good listeners.

The Rooster

In China, the rooster is the personification of five important attributes: civil (as its comb makes resemble a mandarin), military (because of its spurs), courage (because of its ability to fight), reliability (because announces the new day everyday) and generosity (because it shares food with the hens). People of this sign are brave and resilient. They are attractive (including sexually).

The Dog

In China, dogs are the companions of Immortals. People of the dog sign are loyal to the extreme. They exhibit intelligent but not cunning. Unselfish and idealistic, they gladly accept responsibilities and are calm despite external pressures.

The Pig/Boar