Learning to understand your Chinese horoscope is different than the 12 sun signs of the Western horoscope, whereas it is based in 12 year cycles instead.<\/p>\n
Most people are familiar with the Western horoscope of 12 sun signs: Aquarius, Pisces, etc. However, not as many people are as well versed in the Chinese horoscope of animals and elements. While the Chinese horoscope is not as quickly assessed as the Western horoscope, the details and accuracy of your Chinese horoscope may surprise you!<\/p>\n
The history of this ancient art can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (approximately 2nd century BCE). It is related to astronomy, as well as elements<\/a><\/strong> and even the placement of comets at the time of someone’s birth. To fully understand Chinese astrology<\/a><\/strong> can require many years of study, but for the brevity of this article, this will serve as a brief introduction into this most ancient of divinations: the Chinese horoscope.<\/p>\n The legend of how the symbols of these particular animals came to be utilized is a very interesting one. The most commonly accepted legend tells of a time when Buddha summoned all of the animals of the earth to come to him before he returned to heaven. Only twelve animals actually came to bid him farewell. To reward the animals who came to him, Buddha named a year after each of them, beginning with the rat. Each year was named after the order in which each one of the twelve animals arrived.<\/p>\n 2011 has been the Year of the Rabbit. It has been a year of rapid transformation, resulting in a time of repose and reflection. 2012 will be the Year of the Dragon. Its element will be that of water, which will play a very important role in many of the events that will take place during 2012. The Year of the (water) Dragon will begin on January 23, 2012.<\/p>\n These elements and symbols play a key role in preparing your life for the upcoming seasons. You can find a better match for your dreams and goals when you investigate someone’s signs and elements and how they interact with your own. In the next few weeks, we will look even more deeply into the power of t his ancient art.<\/p>\n First to be considered is the year in which you were born as well as the actual date. For instance, you may be a Virgo in Western astrology (Sept. 22 – Oct. 21) but your Chinese horoscope would take into account the year AND the date of your birth, more than the location and time of your birth as in the Western horoscope. The Western horoscope is divided into twelve months to the year whereas the Chinese horoscope is divided into twelve year cycles, none of which are based on constellations like that of the Western zodiac.<\/p>\n Just like in the Western zodiac, certain signs are not necessarily compatible with other signs. For instance, if you are a Dog, you will find yourself compatible with the Horse, Tiger or Rabbit. Those born in the Year of the Pig (or Boar) will find they’re best suited with the Rabbit or the Sheep. For the Rooster, it is the Ox, Snake or Dragon that are the best fitting. For those born in the Year of the Monkey, it is the Dragon or the Rat. For the Year of the Sheep, it is the Rabbit, Pig or Horse that will call to them. For those born in the Year of the Horse, it’s the Tiger, Dog or Sheep that is the better fit. For the Year of the Snake, it will be the Ox and the Rooster that will be most pleasing. For the Year of the Dragon, the person will be happiest in the company of Rats, Snakes, Monkeys and Roosters.<\/p>\n For those born in the Year of the Rabbit (to which we are bidding a fond farewell!) the best fit will be found in Sheep, Pigs or Dogs. For those beginning their journey in the Year of the Tiger, it is Dogs, Dragons and Horses that will be your best bet! Those born in the Year of the Ox will find happiness with Snakes, Roosters or Rats. And last but not least, if you are born in the Year of the Rat, it will be a compatible dance when you are in the presence of those born in either the Year of the Dragon, the Monkey or the Ox.<\/p>\n As we prepare for the Year of the Dragon, know those who will be your best allies and those whom you will need to avoid. In the meantime, watch for my next article on the Chinese elements<\/a><\/strong> and how they relate to your personality and your best career compatibility!<\/p>\n