Chinese zodiac: the 12 animals and their meaning
The Chinese zodiac is an astrology and philosophy system that assigns an animal to each year in a 12-year cycle. Unlike the Western zodiac (based on months), the Chinese one is based on the birth year. The 12 animals are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Origin of the Chinese zodiac
According to legend, the Jade Emperor summoned the animals to a race. The first 12 to arrive won their place in the calendar. The Rat came first by riding on the Ox's back and jumping off at the finish line. This narrative explains the order of the zodiac.
The five elements
In addition to the year animal, the Chinese zodiac incorporates the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water) in a 60-year cycle. Someone born in 1984 is a Wood Rat; in 2020 a Metal Rat. The element modifies the expression of the animal's character.
Compatibility in the Chinese zodiac
- Maximum compatibility triads: Rat-Dragon-Monkey; Ox-Snake-Rooster; Tiger-Horse-Dog; Rabbit-Goat-Pig.
- Opposites with tension: Rat-Horse, Ox-Goat, Tiger-Monkey, Rabbit-Rooster, Dragon-Dog, Snake-Pig.