Chinese Zodiacs: The 12 Chinese Astrology Animal Signs
The ancient Chinese zodiac is a system of astrology that uses 12 signs represented by an animal. These heavenly signs are based on the Chinese lunar calendar, which is different from the Western solar calendar. Each sign is associated with a different element, and the animals rotate in a 12-year zodiac cycle during the Chinese new year.
Chinese horoscopes can be used to predict a person's future, or to find out which animal sign is most compatible with another. It is also used to choose the best time for important events, such as weddings or starting a business. This post will discuss the meaning of each sign in the Chinese zodiac, as well as which animal sign it corresponds to.
What Is The Chinese Zodiac?
The Chinese zodiac is a system based around a 12-year cycle that is used to determine a person's fortune and destiny based on the year they were born. There are 12 zodiac animals, each representing a different year, and each with its own unique characteristics.
The zodiac starts with the Year of the Rat and ends with the Year of the Pig, and resets every 12 years. Each animal sign has different characteristics and is said to be lucky or unlucky in certain years. Those born in a certain year are said to inherit the qualities of that animal, and are therefore said to have good compatibility with others born in the same or similar years.
The Chinese zodiac has been used for centuries to help people make important decisions in their lives, such as when to get married or have children. It is also said to be a helpful tool for understanding the personalities of others. So whether you're looking for love or just want to learn more about yourself, the Chinese zodiac can be a useful tool.
What Is The Chinese Zodiac Mythology?
The Chinese zodiac myth is a story that tells of how the animals of the Chinese zodiac were chosen. The myth goes that the Jade Emperor, the ruler of heaven, decided to hold a race to determine which animals would be represented in the zodiac.
The first twelve animals to arrive would each represent one year. The Rat tricked the Ox into giving him a ride, and then jumped off the back of the ox just before the finish line to take first place. The Ox came in second, followed by the Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and finally the Pig. This is why the Rat is the first animal.
If you are wondering why there is no cat in the story, the main story says that the Rat was supposed to let the Cat know when the race was due to start, the Rat crept out quietly leaving the Cat to sleep all day so didn't turn up in time. An alternate version has both the Rat and the Cat resting on the Ox, during the river crossing the Rat pushed the Cat in the the water which made the Cat turn up late as the thirteenth animal.
Each animal sign is said to have different personality traits. For example, people born in the animal Year of the Rat are said to be intelligent and quick-witted, while those born in the Year of the Pig are said to be honest and hardworking. The Chinese zodiac is still used today to predict people's fortunes. Many people consult Chinese astrologers to find out what the next year will bring. The next few sections talk about the 12 animal astrology signs and five elements. We have listed the zodiac animals in order
What Are The Characteristics Of The 12 Chinese Zodiac Animal Signs?
There are twelve Chinese zodiac signs, each with its own set of characteristics.
The Rat is the first sign, and is known for being intelligent, ambitious, and resourceful.
The Ox is the second sign, and is known for being hardworking, patient, and reliable.
The Tiger is the third sign, and is known for being brave, passionate, and determined.
The Rabbit is the fourth sign, and is known for being gentle, kind, and affectionate.
The Dragon is the fifth sign, and is known for being confident, charismatic, and ambitious.
The Snake is the sixth sign, and is known for being intelligent, wise, and mysterious.
The Horse is the seventh sign, and is known for being energetic, enthusiastic, and optimistic.
The Goat is the eighth sign, and is known for being gentle, compassionate, and creative.
The Monkey is the ninth sign, and is known for being quick-witted, intelligent, and resourceful.
The Rooster is the tenth sign, and is known for being hardworking, honest, and straightforward.
The Dog is the eleventh sign, and is known for being loyal, honest, and reliable.
The Pig is the twelfth sign, and is known for being generous, kind, and easy-going.
The Five Elements
The Chinese zodiac is made up of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element has its own unique characteristics, which are reflected in the personalities of the animals associated with them.
If you were born in a year of the Wood Tiger, for example, you would be a strong and determined individual with a fiery passion for life. If you were born in a year of the Fire Dragon, you would be an ambitious and passionate individual with a strong sense of justice.
No matter what your animal sign and element, the Chinese Zodiac can give you insights into your personality and help you to understand yourself better.
🌳 Wood
The Wood element is associated with the Chinese zodiac signs of the Tiger and the Rabbit. The Wood element is associated with the qualities of strength and determination.
🔥 Fire
The Fire element is associated with the Chinese zodiac signs of the Snake and the Horse. The Fire element is associated with the qualities of passion and ambition.
🌎 Earth
The Earth element is associated with the Chinese zodiac signs of the Ox, the Dragon, the Goat and the Dog. The Earth element is associated with the qualities of firmness, practicality and pragmatism.
🔨 Metal
The Metal element is associated with the Chinese zodiac signs of the Monkey and the Rooster. The Metal element is associated with the qualities of discipline and hard work.
💧 Water
The Water element is associated with the Chinese zodiac signs of the Rat and the Pig. The Water element is associated with the qualities of flexibility and adaptability.
Chinese Zodiacs Years
Behind the Chinese zodiac is a cycle of 12 years, each year is represented by a different animal. Those born in a particular year are said to share certain characteristics with that animal. The Chinese zodiac is believed to have originated during the Han Dynasty, and it remains an important role in Chinese culture today.
The Chinese zodiac can be used to predict compatibility in relationships. For example, those born in the Year of the Ox are most compatible with those born in the Years of the Snake and the Rooster.
Find out below which of the 12 animal signs is associated with what year you were born and what that says about you, just remember it is based on the Chinese calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar, used in most Western societies.
Rat/Zǐ 🐀
Birth years of the Rat: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032
Fixed Element: Water
Trine: First
Key Traits: Intelligent, ambitious, and resourceful
The Rat is the first sign of the Chinese zodiacs. Those born under this sign are said to be intelligent, ambitious, and resourceful. They are also said to be quick-tempered and prone to taking risks.
The Rat is an auspicious sign in Chinese culture, and is often associated with good fortune. Those born under this sign are said to be blessed with good luck and are often successful in whatever they do.
The Rat is a popular sign in Chinese astrology, and is said to be representative of the Chinese people as a whole. Those born under this sign are said to be hardworking, intelligent, and resourceful. They are also said to be quick-tempered and impulsive.
Ox/Chǒu 🐂
Birth years of the Ox: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033
Fixed Element: Earth
Trine: Second
Key Traits: Hardworking, patient, and reliable
The Ox is the second animal in the Chinese zodiacs. Those born under this sign are hardworking, patient, and reliable. They are also good at problem solving and are very intelligent.
While ox people are not the most social of creatures, they are very loyal to those they care for. They are also extremely strong, both physically and mentally. This makes them natural leaders, although they are more likely to lead by example than by force.
Those born under the sign of the ox are usually successful in whatever they put their minds to. They are able to achieve great things through their hard work and determination. However, they can also be inflexible and stubborn, and may have trouble dealing with change.
Tiger/Yín 🐅
Birth years of the Tiger: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Fixed Element: Wood
Trine: Third
Key Traits: Brave, passionate, and determined
The Tiger is the third animal in the Chinese zodiacs. People born in the Year of the Tiger are considered brave, passionate, and determined. Tigers are also known for being loyal and protective of their family and friends.
Those born under the sign of the tiger are often seen as natural leaders. They are usually ambitious and driven, and always ready for a challenge. Tigers are also known for their courage and strength, both physical and mental.
While tigers can be fierce and intimidating, they are also gentle and loving creatures. They are loyal friends and devoted partners. Tigers enjoy spending time with their loved ones, and they are always ready to lend a helping hand.
If you were born in the Year of the Tiger, you are fiercely loyal and always ready to protect those you care about. You are a natural leader, and you have the courage and strength to take on any challenge. You are also a loving and gentle friend, and an excellent partner. The Tiger in the most important and revered creature in Chinese culture.
Rabbit/Mǎo 🐇
Birth years of the Rabbit: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Fixed Element: Wood
Trine: Fourth
Key Traits: Gentle, kind, and affectionate
The rabbit is the fourth animal in the Chinese zodiacs. Those born under the rabbit sign are said to be gentle, kind, and affectionate. They are also known for being quick-witted and resourceful.
Rabbits are said to be lucky in love and enjoy a long and happy marriage. They are also said to be good with money, so they make excellent financial planners. However, rabbits can also be timid and fearful, and they can be easily overwhelmed by life's challenges.
If you were born in the Year of the Rabbit, you are said to be a kind and gentle soul who is always ready to help others. You are also intelligent and quick-witted, and you have a talent for finding creative solutions to problems. You are a natural peacemaker, and you always try to see both sides of every issue. You are confident and self-assured, but you also have a deep need for security and stability. You are loyal and reliable, and your friends and family know they can always count on you.
Dragon/Chén 🐉
Birth years of the Dragon: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Fixed Element: Earth
Trine: First
Key Traits: Confident, charismatic, and ambitious
The Dragon is the fifth animal in the Chinese zodiacs. As one of the most ancient and well-known zodiacs, the dragon has long been an important symbol in Chinese culture. Representing confidence, charisma, and ambition, the dragon is often seen as a benevolent force that can bring good fortune to those who are in its good graces.
The dragon is also said to be a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, and is often associated with the Emperor. In fact, the Emperor was often seen as the earthly embodiment of the dragon, and was said to have dragon-like qualities.
Today, the dragon is still an important symbol in Chinese culture, and is often seen as a sign of good luck. Those born under the dragon zodiac are said to be strong, powerful, and intelligent. They are also said to be passionate and courageous, and are often leaders in their fields.
Snake/Sì 🐍
Birth years of the Snake: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Fixed Element: Fire
Trine: Second
Key Traits: Intelligent, wise, and mysterious
The Snake is the sixth of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Those born under this sign are said to be intelligent, wise, and mysterious. Snakes are often viewed as sly and cunning, and they are known for their ability to take advantage of others.
While Snakes can be manipulative, they are also intelligent and resourceful. They are quick thinkers and are often able to think their way out of difficult situations. Snakes are also often very intuitive, and they have a strong sense of intuition.
Snakes are usually private people, and they often keep to themselves. They can be difficult to get to know, but they are often very loyal friends. Snakes are also known for their passion and determination. They can be very driven and motivated, and they are often very successful in whatever they put their minds to.
Horse/Wǔ 🐎
Birth years of the Horse: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Fixed Element: Fire
Trine: Third
Key Traits: Energetic, enthusiastic, and optimistic
The Horse is the seventh animal in the Chinese zodiacs. Those born under the horse sign are said to be energetic, enthusiastic, and optimistic. They are also said to be good with money and enjoy good health.
Horse people are said to be popular and well-liked. They are often seen as natural leaders, and are known for their optimistic and positive attitude. They are also said to be good communicators and have a strong sense of intuition.
If you were born in a horse year, you are said to have many of the qualities of the horse sign. These include intelligence, independence, and a strong work ethic. You are also likely to be popular and well-liked, and to have a natural ability to lead others. You may also find that you have a strong intuition and are a good communicator.
Goat/Wèi 🐐
Birth years of the Goat: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Fixed Element: Earth
Trine: Fourth
Key Traits: Gentle, compassionate, and creative
The Goat is the eighth sign of the Chinese zodiacs. Goats are known for their gentle and timid nature. They are also compassionate and creative. People born under the Goat sign are often very successful in their chosen field.
Goats are very family-oriented and are often the peacemakers in their group. They are also good at communicating their feelings and are often very affectionate. However, they can also be shy and introverted.
People born under the Goat sign are often lucky in life. They have a strong sense of responsibility and intuition and are often able to achieve their goals. They are also good at taking care of others and are often very generous.
Monkey/Shēn 🐒
Birth years of the Monkey: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
Fixed Element: Metal
Trine: First
Key Traits: Quick-witted, intelligent, and resourceful
The Monkey is the ninth sign of the Chinese zodiacs. The Monkey Chinese Zodiac is one of the most interesting and unique of the zodiacs. Monkeys are known for their quick wit, intelligence, and resourcefulness.
They are also playful and mischievous, and enjoy being the center of attention. Monkeys are curious and inquisitive, and are always looking for new ways to keep themselves entertained. They are also good at problem-solving, and are always up for a challenge.
Rooster/Yǒu 🐓
Birth years of the Rooster: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Fixed Element: Metal
Trine: Second
Key Traits: Hardworking, honest, and straightforward
The Rooster is the tenth animal in the Chinese zodiacs. Those born under this sign are said to be hardworking, honest, and straightforward. They are also said to be quick-witted and confident, but can also be a bit impulsive.
Those born under the sign of the rooster are said to be hardworking and determined. They are also said to be quick-witted and confident. However, they can also be a bit impulsive.
The rooster is an important symbol in Chinese culture. It is seen as a sign of good luck and is often used as a symbol of fertility. The rooster is also associated with the element of fire, which is said to represent energy and activity.
Dog/Xū 🐕
Birth years of the Dog: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
Fixed Element: Earth
Trine: Third
Key Traits: Loyal, honest, and reliable
The Dog is the tenth animal in the Chinese zodiacs. The Dog Chinese zodiac is associated with being loyal, honest, and reliable. People born under this sign are said to be hardworking and supportive. They are also said to be good at problem solving and have a strong sense of justice.
The Dog Chinese zodiac is an auspicious sign, and those born under it are said to be blessed with good fortune. The Dog is a symbol of protection and is said to guard against evil spirits. It is also a symbol of fidelity and loyalty, and is said to be a faithful companion.
Those born under the Dog Chinese zodiac are said to be honest and trustworthy. They are also said to be intelligent and quick-witted. They are said to be good problem solvers and have a strong sense of justice.
The Dog Chinese zodiac is an auspicious sign, and those born under it are said to be blessed with good fortune. The Dog is a symbol of protection and is said to guard against evil spirits. It is also a symbol of fidelity and loyalty, and is said to be a faithful companion.
Pig/Hài 🐖
Birth years of the Pig: 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Fixed Element: Water
Trine: Fourth
Key Traits: Generous, kind, and easy-going
The Pig is the last of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Pigs are a symbol of wealth in Chinese culture. They are also considered to be generous, kind, and easy-going. Pigs enjoy life and are blessed with good fortune. People born in the Year of the Pig are said to be optimistic and good-natured. They have a strong sense of justice and fair play. Pigs are hard workers and can be successful in many different fields.
Pigs are social creatures and enjoy being around others. They are generous with their time and resources. Pigs are loyal friends and make excellent partners. They are family oriented and take their responsibilities seriously. Pigs are sympathetic and willing to help those in need.
If you were born in the Year of the Pig, you are said to be a kind and helpful person. You are someone who is always willing to lend a helping hand. You have a strong sense of justice and are always fighting for the underdog. You are a hard worker with a go-getter attitude. You are optimistic and enjoy life. You are blessed with good fortune.
What Is The Luckiest/Unluckiest Chinese Zodiac Sign?
There are a total of 12 Chinese zodiac signs, and each one is said to be either lucky or unlucky. The most unlucky sign is said to be the Ox, while the most lucky sign is said to be the Dragon.
The Ox is said to be unlucky because it is seen as being stubborn and hard-working. This can make it difficult for the ox to get ahead in life. The dragon is said to be lucky because it is seen as being powerful and wise. This can help the Dragon to achieve success in life.
What Are The Differences Between Chinese Zodiac And Western Astrology?
There are a few key differences between the Western and Chinese zodiac. For one, Chinese zodiac is based on the lunar calendar, while western astrology is based on the solar calendar. This means that the dates for each sign are different - in Chinese zodiac, the year begins on the new moon, while in western astrology it begins on the winter solstice.
Another difference is that Chinese zodiac signs are determined by your birth year, while western zodiac signs are determined by your birth date.
Finally, Chinese zodiac focuses on your relationship to the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water), while western astrology focuses on your relationship to the planets and the sun. This means that the two systems have different ways of interpreting a person's character.
Conclusion
So there you have it, our post on the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. You should now know your Chinese zodiac sign, your birth year animal, and what it represents. In this post, we talk about some of the basics of Chinese horoscopes, and the characteristics of each zodiac animal sign.
This is so that you can learn more about what your Chinese zodiac sign means in the Chinese horoscope, and how it applies to your life! I hope you enjoyed it, and I hope it helped you learn a little bit more about the animal that applies to the year of your birth.
Just remember that no matter which one you are, each of your traits is unique and special to you, so it is important to embrace them!
Thank you for reading, we at playwithlife.org are always excited when one of our posts is able to provide useful information on a topic like this!
