Understanding Lunar New Year Zodiac Cycle

Unraveling the 12-year cycle

Western astrology and the Chinese Zodiac have many parallels. However, significant differences exist between the two belief systems. For example, western astrology assigns star signs to months, while Chinese astrology assigns animal signs to years. As noted above, the word "zodiac" refers to a cycle of animals. In the Chinese Zodiac, these animals are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

The source of these animals is fascinating. An ancient Chinese poem told a tale of a dozen mythical animals who came down to earth to celebrate spring every two hours, thus forming a 24-hour day. Later, this became a Chinese legend about a celestial race organized by the Jade Emperor, who presided over the heavens. The first 12 animals to pass the finish line would forever earn honor in a calendar that would help people measure time. The Rat won the race, thus earning its place as the first animal in the Chinese Zodiac.

Symbolism of zodiac animals

Ancient animal worship is the root of the Chinese Zodiac, and Buddhism is likely the source of the Chinese Zodiac's selection of animals.

The 12 Heavenly Generals in the Sutra of the Great Assembly rode identical animals. These animals became mnemonics to remember the units of traditional Chinese timekeeping.

However, the symbolism of these animals can change. For example, some Asian countries swap out some creatures to reflect local species.

Beyond your birth year, animal signs can also be assigned by month (inner animals), day (true animals), and hour (secret animals) to complete the Four Pillars of Destiny. These animals are also associated with different times of the day.

Calculating zodiac years

The 12 animals are assigned to "Earthly Branches" in the traditional Chinese calendar of "Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches." These early branches are based on the astronomical observations of Jupiter's 12-year orbit of the sun. Some theorize that this 12-year orbit represents a connection to lunar phases. In East Asia, the sexagenary cycle is a method grouping 60-year or twelve-year cycles overlaid with five elements. The current sixty-year cycle ends in 2043.

Personal traits and zodiac signs

In Chinese astrology, each animal has different characteristics influenced by hundreds of years of folklore and history. However, using a birth year animal to provide insight into personality is a relatively new practice.

Today, some believe that different animals represent different traits that can be found in humans born in the corresponding birth year. For example, the Ox is diligent, patient, and confident - but can be stubborn. Those born under the sign of the Rabbit are believed to be lucky, eloquent, and friendly but tend to be foolish with money. Those born under the Dragon are strong and independent, sometimes leading to arrogance. Those born under the pig are sincere and tolerant but can be naive or impulsive.

Zodiac elements and their influence

Each year is linked to either yin or yang, one of four astrological Trines, and a natural element. The five natural elements include Wood, Earth, Metal, Fire, and Water. Individuals born 12 years apart may share an animal sign, but different elements add nuances to their personalities. For example, 2024 is not just the year of the Dragon but the year of the Wood Dragon. The last time this happened was 60 years ago. Each zodiac sign has a fixed element, further altering personality and destiny.

Zodiac and annual fortunes

It will be the year of your birth sign once every 12 years. However, this isn't necessarily a good thing. Your "ben ming nian" - or Zodiac birth year - comes with bad luck because the God of Age is affronted. Wearing gifted red underwear or accessories may repel misfortune, and some offer sacrifices to the Tai Sui, which are the stars directly opposite the planet Jupiter. Jade accessories may also ward off curses.

Compatibility and social relations

The five elements interact in positive or negative ways, and these interactions influence relationships. For example, Wood feeds Fire, and Earth gives rise to Metal. These are complementary interactions. However, some interactions can be deeply problematic. For example, water extinguishes fire, and metal chops wood. As such, these combinations predict disaster when matchmaking.

Further complicating matters is that different animals may impact the success of relationships. For example, Tigers are compatible with Pigs but not with Monkeys.

Zodiac in everyday decision-making

Chinese zodiac signs can also have an impact on your career path. The positive and negative characteristics of your animal indicate career pathways. Chinese astrology may also offer guidance if you have issues with a coworker.

Zodiac celebrations and traditions

Chinese New Year is a celebratory time of the year. Decorations always involve the year's zodiac animal, so you'll notice a theme whether you're in Seoul, Shanghai, or Singapore. On day one of the festivities, families often visit and pay their respects to the elders. Firework displays and lion dance troupes get crowds cheering, and the young are often delighted to receive red envelopes filled with cash.

Evolving role of the zodiac in modern times

While many Chinese people take the Zodiac with a pinch of salt, millions are superstitious or consult fate-calculating Bazi charts. In 2014, there was a spike in births because some believed the Year of the Horse to be promising. "Zodiac discrimination" can be a factor in job recruitment.

More recently, a burgeoning interest in Western astrology has been among young people looking for a less familiar horoscope. China is the least religious country in the world, and astrology can fill a void for some, helping to ensure that people find a spiritual connection to something larger than themselves.