Agreeing to Chinese legend, the 12 animals disputed one day as to who was to lead the cycle of years. The divinities were involved to determine and they admitted a competition: whoever was to achieve the contrary bank of the river would be 1st, and the rest of the animals would obtain their years concording to their finis.
All the 12 animals gathered at the river bank and jumped in. Unknown to the ox, the rat had jumped upon his back. Because the ox was almost to jump on land, the rat jumped off the ox's back, and gained the race. The pig, who was very slow, finished last. That's why the rat is the 1st year of the animal cycle, the ox 2nd, and the pig ultimate.
The Chinese animal signs are a 12-year cycle utilized for dating the years. They symbolize a alternate conception of time, rather than the Western linear concept of time. In the Chinese calendar, the beginning of the year falls somewhere between late January and early February. The Chinese have assumed the Western calendar since 1911, but the lunar calendar is still in use for festal occasions specified the Chinese New Year. A lot of Chinese calendars will publish both the solar dates and the Chinese lunar dates.
A cultural sidelight of the animal signs in Chinese folklore is that horoscopes have evolved around the animal signs, much similar to the monthly horoscopes in the West have been formulated for the different moon signs, Pisces, Aries, etc. For instance, a Chinese horoscope could anticipate that a person born in the Year of the Horse would be, cheerful, popular, and loves to congratulate other people. These horoscopes are amusive, but not considered seriously by the Chinese people.

Chinese elements

Chinese Astrology is said by a few students to be the first horoscope system in the world. Even so you trace Western Astrology back to its Middle East beginnings, both types are probably to have been born in their current perceptible form approximately 3000 years before Christ, however they base from entirely different origins as well as customs and parts of the world.
The twelve animals are further flavored by the pervading element of that specific year (components also rotate as a separate cycle). It is said that Buddha is responsible for the 12 animals as they followed the only ones who arrived to bid him farewell into the following life.
Chinese Astrology is interested with nature and its traits, the signs progression year by year, whereas Western Astrology cycles each month. The consideration of Yin and Yang is a very great influence upon this subject, Yin being inactive, feminine and receptive although Yang is aggressive, male and explorative. The diverse replacements of these 2 crucial forces in nature, places, organizations, events and humanity and the quest to attain balance so that both function together in concordance besides contradicting or canceling each other out are an basically Oriental point of view and quest, they constitute the fundament of numerous Far Eastern customs and other influences in Chinese Society such as Feng Shui.

The twelve Animal Signs are : Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit (or Cat), Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (or Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. The animal governing year in which you were born has a deep influence on your lifetime.

As the Chinese tell, This is the animal that hides in your heart.
In that location are five components: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water, each adding a nuance of almost tangible character to the animal sign of the zodiac.Chinese Astrology is founded on the Chinese calendar year of your birth or the year of an event. On that point are also numerous more nuances regarding the month and day.

Chinese Lunar Calendar

Before to acceptance of the Western solar calendar system, China solely followed a lunar calendar in fixing the times of planting, harvesting, and festival occasions. Although today people in China utilise the western calendar for most pragmatic affairs of daily life, the old system still serves as the fundament for fixing many seasonal holidays. This coexistence of two calendar systems has long been accepted by the people of China.
A lunar month is fixed by the time period needed for the moon to complete its full cycle of 29 and a half days, a standard that makes the lunar year a full eleven days shorter than its solar counterpart. This divergence is made up every nineteen years by the accession of seven lunar months. The 12 lunar months are further fractioned into 24 solar sections differentiated by the four seasons and times of heat and cold, all bearing close relationship to the annually cycle of agrarian work.
The Chinese calendar - like the Hebrew - is a mixed solar/lunar calendar in that it strains to have its years concur with the tropical year and its months coincide with the synodic months. It's not amazing that a couple of similarities exist between the Chinese and the Hebrew calendar: An ordinary year has twelve months, a leap year has 13 months. An ordinary year has 353, 354, or 355 days, a bissextile year has 383, 384, or 385 days. When checking what a Chinese year appears alike, one must make a number of astronomical calculations:
First, determine the dates for the new phase of the moon. Here, a new moon is the completely black moon (that is, once the moon is in conjunction with the sun), not the first visible crescent utilized in the Islamic and Jewish calendar. The date of a new moon is the first day of a new month.

Rat

Now remember, in Chinese astrology, the a few signs have names that we in Western culture might not associate with positive human features. Primary among these might be the sign of the Rat. If you were born in 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984 or 1996 then you are a Rat!
You are ambitious as yet honest, Inclined to spend freely. Rarely attain durable friendly relationship. You are most well-matched with Dragons and Monkeys and minimum compatible with Horses.
Although in the West, we associate rats with sewers, vermin and disease, this animal is watched a little otherwise in the East. The Eastern rat is valued for its agile wits and ability to collect and hold on to riches. Rats are a symbolisation of good fortune in the East. It’s a fashionable and charming sign in Eastern astrology. It is sharp and funny will take good care of those it thinks its good friends.
Although rats are sociable characters, they are also unashamed boosters of their own orders of business. This Sign’s charm and abilities of opinion are frequently applied to their best advantage. Rats are incited by money and self-possessions. They are quick-witted and sharp-tongued and love a good debate.
Rats enjoy being on the outside looking in, as they like to learn by observing. They’re always observing, always gathering information in their brains for use at some future time if they need it. Rats don’t like to be bored and are always searching challenges to keep their already-sharp wits even sharper.


Ox

Whenever you were born in the years 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985 or 1997 then you were born under the sign of the Ox in Chinese astrology. You are brilliantly, patient and inspiring to other people. You can be happy by yourself, yet make an great parent. You should marry a Snake or Cock. Avoid those Sheep.
The Ox is a constant and strong, a born leader. It is straight and has what it takes to accomplish great things. They are organized, not plunging in without thinking what the right steps are to get a project ended. They trust in acting it right the first time.
In the business world, because the Ox can be strong leader, it can also be a bit stubborn or dogmatic. They prefer to lead and don’t like to be pushed around.
Although the Ox is smart, trustworthy caring and honorable, it can also be a bit judgmental and this characteristic can keep them from having the close friends and relationships that they want. A few beneficial advice for the Ox is to learn to appreciate qualities in other people, and to listen to what others have to say. Occasionally it pays just to say nothing.


Tiger

Is there a creature on the planet more glorious than the Tiger. If you were born in the years 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986 or 1998, you are a Tiger. Tiger people are aggressive, fearless, candid and sensible. Look to the Horse and Dog for happiness. Beware of the Monkey.
Tigers are born leaders. The Tiger is the 3rd Sign of the Chinese Zodiac. It is a Yang Sign and most closely associated with the Wood Element. Recent Tiger years have been 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, and 1998. The Tiger is a very changeable person, with a powerful instinctive ability that is frequently in great risk of being abused. They are either leaders or insurgents.
They can be vain, argumentative and excessively aggressive at times, but their inborn charisma and huge reserves of charm are usually sufficient to extract them from any troubles that might arise from their lack of foresight. Their idealistic mentality on life can take quite a few knocks on the head from this precipitous realism until it finally breaks down -- at which point the Tiger personality can lapse into its less magnetic aspects.
Tigers are courageous on the far side comparability and commonly come out in front in battle, be it in the boardroom or the bedroom. Seduction is one area where the Tiger is definitely king. Noble and loving, Tigers have a instinctive, raw charm that's highly attractive to other Signs. They are not just about attraction, though; ever on the side of right, Tigers will fight the good fight to the bitter end if the cause is noble. Adversaries are wise to fear this feline.
A lesson that Tigers would be well-served to acquire is moderation in all things. When this cats can find their center and direct their considerable energies toward worthwhile endeavors (as opposed to racing through life), they will achieve a lot.

Rabbit

 If you were born in the years 1939,1951,1963,1975,1987 or 1999,you are a Rabbit.
Timid and attractive, the Rabbits of the Chinese Zodiac incline to act more like bunnies, whether they like it or not! This Sign is highly popular and has a wide circle of family and admirers. Its compassionate nature leads it to be very caring of those it cares for, but where romance is implicated, the Rabbit's sentimentality can lead it to idealise relationships. The sweet, sensible Rabbit frequently ends up giving more of itself to a partner than is realistic or healthy. The good news is, when this Sign goes off-balance, the Rabbit's core group of friends and its stable home life help bring it back to center.
The Rabbit is a kind of delicate Sign that asks a solid base in order to get ahead. Missing close, supportive friends and family, the Rabbit might just break down in tears at the first sign of conflict. Affective upsets in this Sign's life can even conduct to physical sicknesses. Rabbits dislike arguments and other dispute and will try anything to avoid a battle; this results in something of a pushover nature. Rabbits can also fall back into pessimism and may seem stuck in life -- often to mask their insecure natures. Rabbits tend to act through with life's lessons at their own, preferably contemplative pace; it's a waste of time to become exasperated with this Sign's seeming disinterest in facing its problems and conquering them.
With the correct partner -- meaning someone whose high rationales will not admit to make use of this sensible, giving Sign -- the Rabbit can make an incredibly loving and protective partner or family member. Rabbits love to think about home and always make sure their house is prosperous and tastefully-furnished. What Rabbits need most is a stronger feel of self-worth and the protection that comes with it. Their perspicacious natures, conjugated with some hard-won self-assertiveness, will help these happy creatures go far.
The most well-matched correspond for a Rabbit is the Goat or the Pig.


Dragon

If you were born in the years 1940,1952,1964,1976,1988 or 2000 ,you are a Dragon.
The Dragon is one of the most powerful and prosperous Signs of the Chinese Zodiac. Its affectionate heart tempers its fiery and rambunctious nature. This is a giving, intelligent and tenacious Sign that knows precisely what it wants and is decided to get it. Dragons have a certain instinctive, charm that assures they can ever act upon their peers and frequently find themselves the centre of attention in social situations. This Sign is truly blessed, too. Dragons are saw to be very fortunate in love. The Dragon's admirers are ever keen to hear what this firebrand has to say and when it comes to dealing advice, the Dragon has the base.
Its self-importance can get in the way, but even so, this heroic creature has a hang for creativeness and leadership. According to Dragons, it is their natural born right to conduct the direction -- because who other could do it so for sure and so well. As lucky as they are, Dragons have a adept chance of reaching considerable material wealthiness during their lives, while it Is not plain money that's this Sign's main motivation. Power is what the Dragon desires and really believes it merits. Dragons are quite the opportunists, always exploring for ways in which to consolidate their substantial power. Different than all this strength and fire, a weakened Dragon is a sad sack, a creature that declines to take defeat with even a modicum of blessing.
The leaders role is the only one for the Dragon, the better from which to give orders and be king of the hill. They make solid leaders, too, knowing instinctively what necessitates to be done to remain in big top. Crossing the Dragon is never a beneficial idea -- this beast can singe. A useful life lesson for this intelligent creature would be to assimilate the rules of flexibility, compassion and tolerance. Being high and powerful can serve to inspire other people, but it also keeps Dragons from living their lives to the fullest. If Dragons can acquire to balance their request for success with an appreciation for the little things, their life will be more than worthy.

Snake

Born in the years 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989 and 2001. Wise and intense with a inclination towards physical beauty. Proud and high tempered.
The Snake is an fascinating mixture of extraversion coupled with introversion, intuitive reasoning paired with business savoir-faire. Snakes are considered to be lucky with money and will generally have more than enough to live life to the fullest, regardless of how important it considers money to be; this may be due to the fact that Snakes tend to be rather tight with cash. They're not stingy; they're simply more mentally than physically active. Snakes tend to hang back a bit in order to analyze a situation before jumping into it. Their charming, seductive quality actually belies a rather retiring nature; this Sign is perfectly happy to spend the whole day curled up with a good book and, thus, can be mislabeled as being lazy.
The Snake is somewhat insecure deep down and tend to be a rather jealous, possessive lover, behavior that can end up alienating loved ones. Despite these less-than-stellar tendencies, however, the Snake often proves irresistible and is a generous, loving partner. Slightly dangerous and disarmingly smart, the Snake's philosophical and intuitive mind generally supersedes logic in favor of feelings and instinct. Snakes will rely on their own gut reactions and intuitions before turning to others for suggestions. This makes this Sign a great hand in any business venture, possessing the caution and smarts needed to get ahead.
In general, of course, Snakes are generous and genteel, charming and appealing. Snakes must try to learn humility and to develop a stronger sense of self. Once Snakes realize that confidence comes from within, they will finally be comfortable in their own skin.
The most compatible match for a Snake is the Rooster or the Ox.

Horse

If you were born in the year 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990 or 2002, then you are a Horse. You’re popular and attractive to the opposite sex. You can be ostentations and impatient. You need people, but should marry a Tiger or a Dog. Avoid the Rat!
Horses crave love and intimacy, which is a double-edged sword since it often leads them to feel trapped. Love connections tend to come easily to Horses, since they exude the kind of raw sex appeal that is a magnet to others. This Sign tends to come on very strong in the beginning of the relationship, having an almost innate sense of romance and seduction. Horses are seducers in general; check out any A-list party and you're bound to find the Horse in attendance. This Sign possesses a sharp wit and a scintillating presence; it really knows how to work a crowd. Surprisingly, Horses tend to feel a bit inferior to their peers, a misconception that causes them to drift from group to group out of an irrational fear of being exposed as a fraud.
Horses tend not to look much at the big picture; instead they just follow their whims, which can result in a trail of prematurely ended relationships, jobs, projects and so on. This Sign really knows how to motivate others, though, and get a lot accomplished. Once they find some peace within themselves, they can curb their wandering tendencies and learn to appreciate what's in their own backyard.
Horses are the nomads of the Chinese Zodiac, roaming from one place or project to the next. All of this Sign's incessant activity and searching may be to satisfy a deep-rooted desire to fit in. Paradoxically, Horses feel a simultaneous yearning for independence and freedom.

Goat

If you were born in the year 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991 or 2003 then you are a Goat. You’re elegant and creative, somewhat timid and prefer anonymity. You are most compatible with Pigs and Rabbits, but don’t mix it up with the Ox.
Goats tend to have a hard time with romance; anyone who couples up with a Goat must know, this Sign has a sensitive streak a mile wide and can be subject to bouts of anxiety over seemingly inconsequential things. Goats need plenty of love, support and open reassurance from their lovers. If a relationship is marked by conflict, the Goat will often pull away -- either physically or simply by retreating into the safe haven of its imagination.
If the romance is going well, however, Goats won't hesitate to tell their partner what they need -- and they can be quite insistent about it. This Sign will definitely return the favor, however; the Goat has a luxurious side that delights in indulging a lover's every wish. Appearances are also important to the Goat, which may explain why these folks can spend hours primping and posing.
Goats are generally most comfortable in their own minds (which other, more linear-thinking Signs may have trouble deciphering). This Sign makes a great craftsperson or artisan, or perhaps a teacher of New Age studies -- any occupation that allows its mind the full range of freedom. Goats tend not to be very well-organized, precluding many more dry business endeavors. In fact, Goats tend not to be very materialistic in general, finding plenty of riches in their own imagination. However, especially when in love, the Goat can be quite a lavish gift-giver.



Monkey

If you were born in 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980 or 1992, then you are a Monkey in Chinese astrology. They are desicribed as intelligent and able to influence people. An enthusiastic achiever, you are easily discouraged and confused. Your best matches are with a Dragon or a Rat and beware the Tiger.
Monkeys are good listeners and tackle complicated situations with ease. This Sign's natural curiosity gives it a broad-based intellectual curiosity. Monkeys have a show-off side that loves nothing more than to impress their friends with all they know.
The Monkey's world, full reckless energy and revelry, isn't for everyone. Remember, though, it's not that this Sign is mean; it might just be a bit too curious for its own good. Monkeys often feel the need to try everything at least once, which can make for a merry-go-round of relationships.
The Monkey's love of self-indulgence can also lead to other types of trouble. This Sign may have limited self-control concerning food, alcohol and other pleasurable activities. It's party time all the time for the Monkey, yet when it leads to a monster hangover or a shattered heart (generally someone else's, not theirs), this Sign might actually show a touch of remorse. They won't flat-out admit the error of their ways, but at least they'll pull back and try to tone things down -- for a while.
Monkeys must try to learn to think of others ahead of themselves, at least some of the time. This Sign's world will be more complete once it realizes the world doesn't revolve around it.

Rooster

If you were born in the years 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981 or 1993 then you’re a Rooster. The Rooster is described as a pioneer in spirit, devoted to work and the quest for knowledge. It is selfish and eccentric and is best matched with Snakes and Oxen. Oddly enough, the writer is a Snake and her sister is a Rooster. We do think there’s something to this astrology thing!
Roosters are quick thinkers and are practical and resourceful, preferring to stick to what is tried and true rather than taking unnecessary risks. Roosters are keenly observers of their surroundings and those around them. It's hard to slip anything past a Rooster, since they seem to have eyes in the backs of their heads. This quality can lead others to think the Rooster is psychic, but that's not generally the case; instead, this Sign enjoys a keen attention to detail that makes it a whiz at anything requiring close analysis. Roosters make great lawyers, brain surgeons and accountants, to name a few of this Sign's possible occupations. Above all else, the Rooster is very straightforward and rewards others' honesty in kind.
Roosters tend to be perfectionists and expect to be in control, especially over their appearance. Primping and posing for the Rooster can go on forever. Being noticed and admired is an aphrodisiac for Roosters, and they can go a long time on a few kind words. Roosters also adore being out on the town, especially if they're in the company of adoring friends. The Rooster will also be the best-dressed one of the bunch -- style counts with this Sign, regardless of the cost.
Roosters need to learn to value their heart and soul as much as their good looks. Their excellent people skills and sharp minds are qualities that others will appreciate as much as a pretty face

Dog

Born in 1946,1958,1970,1982,1994 or 2006.
Dogs in both the East and West are loyal, faithful and honest and always stick to their firm codes of ethics. It's generally quite trustworthy itself -- except for the occasional little white lies the Dog tells in order to make things go more smoothly. The Dog makes a wonderful, discreet and loyal friend and is an excellent listener. This Sign tends to root for the underdog and its keen sense of right and wrong makes it duty-bound to the core. The Dog's motto seems to be, Live right, look out for the little people and fight injustice whenever possible.
Dogs can also be rather dogmatic, too. They don't go in for light social banter; instead, they go straight for home, discoursing on the topics that are most important to them. At these times the Dog's narrow-minded or stubborn side can become apparent; this Sign has trouble staying light and calm when an important issue is at stake. This Sign can also be very temperamental; mood swings characterize its emotional life and often the Dog needs to run off to be alone in order to recuperate. Part of the problem is the result of this Sign's load of irrational fears that turn into niggling anxieties that turn into hurt feelings and occasional grouchiness. This sensitive Sign needs to warm up to others over time and gradually learn to trust them. Without that trust as a foundation, Dogs can be judgmental and coarse.
The Dog's discerning nature does make it an excellent business person, one who can turn that picky, guarded nature into a keen sense of the truth of another's motives. Where love is concerned, Dogs often have a tough time finding the right match. Dogs need to work on controlling their irrational worries and would also be well-served to relax their mile-high standards, which can sometimes wind up alienating the ones they love.
The most compatible match for a Dog is the Tiger or the Horse.



Pig

Born in 1947,1959,1971,1983,1995 or 2007.
The Pig may be the most generous and honorable Sign of the Chinese Zodiac. Pigs are nice to a fault and possess impeccable manners and taste. They are perfectionists and can be perceived them as snobs, but this is a misconception. Pigs are simply possessed of a truly luxurious nature, one that delights in finery and nice things (in surroundings, food, lovemaking and otherwise). This Sign believes in the best qualities of mankind and certainly doesn't consider itself to be superior. Pigs also care a great deal about friends and family and work hard to keep everyone in their life happy. Helping others is a true pleasure for the Pig, who feels best when everyone else is smiling.
A Pig with no one around to appreciate its giving nature is a sad thing indeed. Pigs are so magnanimous they can appear almost saintly; this can lead some less-than-well-intentioned souls to stomp all over this Sign, and the bad news is, the Pig will take the blows.
Pigs are highly intelligent creatures, forever studying, playing and probing in their quest for greater knowledge. They can be misinterpreted as being lazy, however, due to their love of reveling in the good stuff; this Sign could happily spend hours on end making love, napping, taking a long bubble bath or dallying over an incredible spread of rich foods. Pigs tend to make wonderful life partners due to their hearts of gold and their love of family. Even so, Pigs can be rather exclusive, choosing to spend time with those who will appreciate them most and ignore the rest of the populace. Pigs would do well to realize that there's more to life than being needed. When they open up their world to a diverse group of people, they will truly bloom. The most compatible match for a Pig is the Rabbit or the Goat.