Chinese Zodiac Symbols and Meanings

Chinese Zodiac signs are subdivided into inner animals -- representing months of the year, and
secret animals -- representing each hour of the day. This enables the 12 basic animal signs to
be interpreted in 8,640 possible combinations! Read on to learn more about these signs and
their meanings.

The Shengxiao, called the Chinese Zodiac colloquially, is a traditional Chinese system that
relates the birth year of a person to an animal and its characteristics. The word 'Sheng' means
'year of birth' and the word 'Xiao' means 'resemblance'. Based on the lunar calendar, this system
is a twelve-year cycle as opposed to the monthly cycle of western zodiac signs, although both
have a twelve-part time cycle. This twelve-year cycle is a sub-cycle of the larger 60-year cycle,
which is formed by the amalgamation of each one of these twelve earthly branches with ten
heavenly stems.
The animals in the Chinese zodiac are believed to be created in order to count years. The time
division in ancient China (during 200 A.D.) was mostly related to the number twelve: one ji = 12
years, one year has 12 months, and one day has 12 time periods called shi chen. Each of these
time divisions is also named in the same manner as the twelve years.
The Twelve Signs of Chinese Zodiac
The twelve animal zodiacs are the base of Chinese astrology. Here we have listed each zodiac
and its unique characteristics. The birth year correspondence for the people born in January, or

February should be double checked as the Chinese new year changes each year, usually falling
between the end of January and the start of February. So, for example, if your birthday falls on
January 13, 1900, and the Chinese new year that year is on January 29, your zodiac is Pig and
not Rat, even though the table shows the people born in 1900 to be "Rat" people.
Rat 1900 1912 1924 1936 1948 1960 1972 1984 1996 2008 2020 2032
Ox 1901 1913 1925 1937 1949 1961 1973 1985 1997 2009 2021 2033
Tiger 1902 1914 1926 1938 1950 1962 1974 1986 1998 2010 2022 2034
Rabbit 1903 1915 1927 1939 1951 1963 1975 1987 1999 2011 2023 2035
Dragon 1904 1916 1928 1940 1952 1964 1976 1988 2000 2012 2024 2036
Snake 1905 1917 1929 1941 1953 1965 1977 1989 2001 2013 2025 2037
Horse 1906 1918 1930 1942 1954 1966 1978 1990 2002 2014 2026 2038
Ram 1907 1919 1931 1943 1955 1967 1979 1991 2003 2015 2027 2039
Monkey 1908 1920 1932 1944 1956 1968 1980 1992 2004 2016 2028 2040
Rooster 1909 1921 1933 1945 1957 1969 1981 1993 2005 2017 2029 2041
Dog 1910 1922 1934 1946 1958 1970 1982 1994 2006 2018 2030 2042
Pig 1911 1923 1935 1947 1959 1971 1983 1995 2007 2019 2031 2043
The Rat
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: zi
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: shui/Water
Yin Yang: Yang
They are quick to spot potential and put their creative and clever ideas into effect. As the first
sign of the zodiac, Rats make great leaders and enjoy being in authoritative positions. Their
restless nature pushes them into taking the lead of situations around. At times, they may appear
to be unyielding, greedy, and self-centered as their manner is aggressively enthusiastic.
Intelligent, charming, and ambitious, they are more often than not triumphant as businessmen.
Rats are self-contained and do not discuss their problems with others. Even though they can be
talkative sometimes, they never confide in anyone. They are energetic and great organizers; so
if you want something done, call in a Rat. They are suited to careers in shopkeeping, sales,
buying and selling, or accountancy. Rats shine in managerial positions. In partnership, Rats are
faithful if their partner is able to provide safety, assurance, and love that they need. They are not
romantic by nature, but are very caring and loving.

Stroke of Luck!
Directions: Northeast, Southeast
Colors: Green, Blue, Golden; Avoid: Brown and Yellow
Numbers: 2, 3; Avoid: 5, 9
Flowers: Lily of the Valley, African Violet, Lily
Match: Dragon, Ox, Monkey; Avoid: Rabbit, Ram, Horse
Back to Types
The Ox
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: chou
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: tu/Earth
Yin Yang: Yin
The Ox builds plans and ideas on resolute reasons. People under this Chinese zodiac are
steadfast, dependable, honest, and compassionate. They are very family-oriented, conservative,
and faithful. They achieve success after lots of patience and hard work. For them to work
through with their ideas and thoughts, they need complete peace and harmony. They enjoy
being in positions of power and are satisfied with the position of a boss, or decision maker.
However, limelight does not attract them. They are best left alone to work as they have a
tendency to turn hotheaded, inflexible, and stubborn when pushed. They are logical and do not
forgive easily if cheated upon. They prefer truthfulness, loyalty, and commitment in a partner.
They are often very skilled with their hands, making them good with the practice of medicine.
They do well in careers related to archaeology, geology, visual arts, farming, estate
management, cooking, and religion.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: Due North, Southeast, and Due South
Colors: Red, Purple, Blue; Avoid: Green and White
Numbers: 9, 1; Avoid: 3, 4
Flowers: Peach Blossom, Evergreen Tulip
Match: Rat, Snake, Rooster; Avoid: Horse, Dog, Ram
Back to Types

The Tiger
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: yin
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: mu/Wood
Yin Yang: Yang
Tigers are resolute, vehement, and positive with a dominant disposal. They are magnetic
characters, and their inborn air of authority bestows a certain prestige on them. They explore the
potential in unlikely situations. They like to see everything settled, rarely abandon projects, and
will become self-centered and obstinate if they fail to achieve anything. Tigers tend to place
themselves in leadership, or radical roles. They are revered for their undying bravery, even by
those, who are against them. They may become aggressive if trapped, or kept in an isolated
area for a long period. In love, they need a stable harmonious partner who quietly gets on with
his/her own life. With a wide intelligence, they have chances of adopting diverse and colorful
career options. Their varied experiences enrich their life, adding depth to their personality.
These born leaders are suited to travel, designing, advertising, politics, or the military.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: South, East, Southeast
Colors: Blue, Gray, White, Orange; Avoid: Golden, Silver, Brown, Black
Numbers: 1, 3, 4; Avoid: 6, 7, 8
Flowers: Cineraria
Match: Horse, Dog; Avoid: Snake, Monkey
Back to Types
The Rabbit
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: mao
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: mu/Wood
Yin Yang: Yin
Usually affable, generous, and serenely tamed by nature, rabbits prefer their life to be low-key
and easygoing. They get anxious if forced to take risks. They enjoy detailing in their work and
use it to create a peaceful aura in their lives. Rabbits, more often than not, prefer the easy road.
Their ideal partner is loving with a kind heart who always fulfills their desires. They are outgoing

creatures, who are diplomatic by nature and always polite to others. They are popular and loved
by their friends and family. However, they are conservative and insecure too; and that explains
why most of them don't like changes. Highly creative in their work, art is of extreme interest to
them. Rabbits are suited to careers in literature, art, design, public relations, counseling,
advisory occupations, and law. They also make good secretaries.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: East, Southeast, South
Colors: Red, Pink, Purple, Blue; Avoid: Dark Brown, Dark Yellow, White
Numbers: 3, 4, 9; Avoid: 1, 7, 8
Flowers: Snapdragon, Flower of Fragrant Plantain Lily, Nerve Plant
Match: Ram, Pig, Dog; Avoid: Rat, Dragon
Back to Types
The Dragon
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: chen
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: mu/Wood
Yin Yang: Yin
With a personality that is peppy, animated, and self-assured, dragons are good at creating an
impression. They are interested in the realm around them that is filled with energy and are
comfortable being the center of attention. Dragons make a very good judgment of situations and
are experts at stepping in at the right moment to resolve things. They can be determined. With a
great stroke of luck following them, they are quite reflective and noble in their approach. They
can also be courageous, magnetic, and have an unwavering approach to life. They view their
own selves as the knight in shining armor. In romantic endeavors, they want a partner who gives
them ample amount of space and respect, yet is romantic and passionate by nature. Their
careers can be in acting, law, religion, management, or arts. They enjoy responsibilities and do
not tolerate being trapped in small-time jobs, or being at the grace of others.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: North, West, Northwest
Colors: Golden, Silver, Hoary; Avoid: Purple, Green, Red, Black
Numbers: 1, 7, 6; Avoid: 9, 8, 3

Flowers: Bleeding Heart Vine, Larkspur

Match: Rat, Monkey, Rooster; Avoid: Ox, Rabbit, Dog
Back to Types
The Snake
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: si
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: huo/Fire
Yin Yang: Yin
Snakes enjoy being the one in control. They are fascinating and mesmerizing, yet calculative
and orthodox. They have a high level of endurance and can keep working in adversity, too. They
have the alertness of a snake and often exhibit an eerie viewpoint. Togetherness, love, and
constant encouragement are important to a snake in intimate relationships. They prefer
partners, who enjoy snuggled ambiance and close intimacy. They are patient when it comes to
waiting for something. They may consistently observe for long periods and then attack at the
precise moment. Their career options are in public relations, archeology, astrology, philosophy,
catering, or law.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: Northeast, Southwest, and South
Colors: Red, Light Yellow, Black; Avoid: White, Golden, Brown
Numbers: 2, 8, 9; Avoid: 1, 6, 7
Flowers: Orchid, Cactus
Match: Ox, Rooster; Avoid: Tiger, Pig
Back to Types
The Horse
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: wu
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: huo/Fire
Yin Yang: Yang
Horses are self-sustained, undaunted, filled with tenacity, and enterprising. They are also
extremely truthful and trustworthy. They are constantly working to have their potential and skills

recognized. They are dedicated and loyally devoted to their work, family, and home. Even in the
face of problems, Horses have a penchant to work ahead, which is a hallmark of their
stupendous self-determination. They are always ready to do their very best and are usually
adherent to whatever they concentrate on. They are often very devoted to their work and seek a
partner who will not only take proper care of them, but will also leave them unrestrained to take
on their own prolific ventures if needed. In career pursuits, they will make good politicians,
explorers, or artists.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: Northeast, Southwest, and Northwest
Colors: Brown, Yellow, Purple; Avoid: Blue, White, Golden
Numbers: 2, 3, 7; Avoid: 1, 6, 5
Flowers: Calla Lily, Jasmine, Marigold
Match: Tiger, Ram, Dog; Avoid: Rat, Ox, Rabbit
Back to Types
The Ram
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: wei
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: tu/Earth
Yin Yang: Yin
Rams are considered patient and prefer to have everything in restraint and foresight in all
aspects of their lives. They are bearers of immense pressure, yet they remain sturdy and
steadfast. They are characteristically hard workers, who go on accomplishing a lot and can
easily take on more than their share of work. Often, they will remain in the backdrop of an
undertaking, reluctant of any attention, or prominence. Good at team work, their coherent nature
makes them very dependable. In love, they are bent towards a partner who will defend and
safeguard them and yet give them room for their creativity. They can have abstract careers in
the field of arts, research, outdoor work, emergency relief work, in libraries, or in design.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: East, Southeast, South
Colors: Green, Red, Purple; Avoid: Golden, Coffee
Numbers: 3, 9, 4; Avoid: 7, 6, 8

Flowers: Carnation, Primrose, Alice Flower

Match: Rabbit, Horse, Pig; Avoid: Ox, Dog
Back to Types
The Monkey
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: shen
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: jin/Metal
Yin Yang: Yang
These are the most active of all the signs of the zodiac and are born with a sense of passion
that comes from within. They have a mental gift of being brilliant and are fast learners; they
come up with creative ideas and like to grasp more and more knowledge. They enjoy playing
games and are always ready to pester, or pull pranks. Their fast-moving spirit sometimes makes
them appear uncaring and inconsiderate to others. Thus, many a time, for this reason, they find
it difficult to settle with one person. Often, Monkeys will find themselves born into families that
are financially well-settled. They can be very determined and compliant, too. As far as their
career is concerned, they are good at design, media management, public relations, and
planning.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: North, Northwest, West
Colors: White, Golden, Blue; Avoid: Red, Black, Gray, Dark Coffee
Numbers: 1, 8, 7; Avoid: 9, 2, 5
Flowers: Chrysanthemum
Match: Rat, Dragon, Snake; Avoid: Tiger, Pig
Back to Types
The Rooster
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: you
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: jin/Metal
Yin Yang: Yin
Roosters are people, who are very tenacious, defiant, and insightful. They enjoy singing and

music, and often tend to be very creative. They have a very powerful sense of imagination. They
have a unique strength of perseverance and often exhibit firm immediate power -- always
knowing what they want. They are very good talkers and are excellent at dissuading people. In
relationships, they frequently yearn for companionship or friendship and make clever observers
of what happens in a partnership. Career-wise, they can be skillful in politics, public relations,
arts, creative work, and scientific endeavors.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: West, Southwest, Northeast
Colors: Golden, Brown, Brownish Yellow, Yellow; Avoid: White, Green
Numbers: 5, 8, 7; Avoid: 9, 3, 1
Flowers: Gladiola, Impatiens, Cockscomb
Match: Ox, Dragon, Snake; Avoid: Rat, Rabbit, Dog
Back to Types
The Dog
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: xu
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: tu/Earth
Yin Yang: Yang
This is the most forthright, friendly, and sincere sign of all. People born under this zodiac always
seem to be up for work and fun equally. This quality earns them respect from everyone around
them. They are prone to being brave and courageous, and they rarely take back any
commitment or betray the trust of a loved one. Their inner strength and physical intensity make
them an excellent choice to have in a workplace environment. They are very truthful and
honorable, and in relationships, they will settle with someone who stands up for them
completely. They work hard for the welfare of others and are patient listeners. They can be very
faithful when it comes to their partners and to others around them. They are good at teaching,
social work, counseling, medicine, research, public campaigning, and law.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: East, Southeast, South
Colors: Green, Red, Purple; Avoid: Blue, White, Golden
Numbers: 3, 4, 9; Avoid: 1, 6, 7

Flowers: Rose, Oncidium Orchids, Cymbidium Orchids

Match: Tiger, Rabbit, Horse; Avoid: Ox, Dragon, Ram, Rooster
Back to Types
The Pig
Earthly Branch of Birth Year: hai
Wu Xing/The Five Elements: shui/Water
Yin Yang: Yin
People under this sign are hospitable, honorable, and mellow. They have a really high threshold
of tolerance. They are well-liked for their truthfulness and warmth. They are always finding
qualities in people and believe that everyone has a right to hold their own point of view. They are
often overflowing with the blessing of wealth and the support of their friends and colleagues.
However, they are not bothered about accumulating wealth. They can be satisfied with a modest
lifestyle. They rarely find faults in others and are not vengeful; thus, they don't have any
enemies. They accept the lifestyle that they have and are content with that. They do not demand
extravagance. They enjoy simple and natural happiness. In relationships, they are often the
giver of love and affection and believe that they will receive the same. They have a strong sense
of determination and if they set their minds on a task, they tend to pursue it and attain it. Good
career options are in music, food, writing, social work, gardening, and nursing.
Stroke of Luck!
Directions: Southeast, Northeast
Colors: Yellow, Gray, Brown, Golden; Avoid: Red, Blue, Green
Numbers: 2, 5, 8; Avoid: 3, 1, 9
Flowers: Hydrangea, Pitcher Plant, Marguerite Daisy
Match: Ram, Rabbit; Avoid: Snake, Monkey, Pig
Back to Types
The Ten Heavenly Stems and Five Elements
The ten heavenly stems first appeared in the Chinese culture as characters to help count the
days of the week. Each heavenly stem is a combination of the five elements of Chinese
astrology with yin and yang. Thus, they give us ten elements. Subsequently, the heavenly stems
lost their original function as names for days of the week and acquired many other uses; the

most prominent and long-lasting of which is their use together with the Earthly Branches as a
60-year calendar cycle.
Heavenly Stem Yin-Yang Wu Xing Direction
Yang - Wood East
Yin
Yang - Fire South
Yin
Yang - Earth Middle
Yin
Yang - Metal West
Yin
Yang - Water North
Yin
In Chinese Astrology, the idea of Wu Xing is used extensively. Here the word "Wu" stands for
"five". The word "Xing" is a short form of a phrase that means elements that dominate life at
different times. Understanding of these elements is very essential to astrology.

The working of these five elements can be described as two cycles -- a beneficial cycle and a
hostile cycle. The beneficial cycle is also referred to as the "grandfather-grandson" cycle,
whereas the hostile cycle is referred to as the "mother-son" cycle. This description is much like
an everyday life situation, where a child is in constant argument and hostility with his parents but
has a friendly rapport with his grandparents.
The Twelve Earthly Elements
Earthly Branches can be used to count the time of years, months, and hours. When counting
years, people use them with the 12 Chinese zodiacs and strictly one Earthly Branch
corresponds to one fixed zodiac. The entire day has been divided into twelve sections and each
has been named as a 'shi chen', which is equal to two hours and has a fixed Earthly Branch
name. The first two hours are called 'zi shi', the second two hours are called 'chou shi', and so
forth. The point to note here is, the Chinese hours begin at 11 p.m. standard time.

Earthly Branches Zodiac Names Season Month Hour

Rat Winter December 23:00 - 01:00
Ox January 01:00 - 03:00
Tiger Spring February 03:00 - 05:00
Rabbit March 05:00 - 07:00
Dragon April 07:00 - 09:00
Snake Summer May 09:00 - 11:00
Horse June 11:00 - 13:00
Sheep July 13:00 - 15:00
Monkey Autumn August 15:00 - 17:00
Rooster September 17:00 - 19:00
Dog October 19:00 - 21:00
Pig Winter November 21:00 - 23:00
Each individual earthly branch is paired with a stem. The essential point is that only evennumbered stems are paired with even-numbered branches, and odd-numbered stems with oddnumbered branches. For example: the second heavenly stem can be paired with the second,
fourth, or the sixth earthly branch, etc., but cannot be paired with the first, or third branch, etc.
Thus, we get 60 combinations instead of 120 combinations.
The Four Pillars of Astrology
Extensive Chinese zodiac not only considers the animal correspondent of your birth year, but
also of your birth month, day, and time. Each of these together make up the Chinese concept of
the "Four Pillars". Also known as the Eight Characters, these pillars are used for fortune telling
and astrology. In Chinese, the four pillars are known as "BaZi".

The Chinese Zodiac meanings are derived from the Four Pillars. These are basically columns
designed during the reign of the Han Dynasty between 206 BC - 220 AD. Each pillar represents
a branch and relates to the hour, day, month, and year of birth, for readings according to
Chinese astrology. The first pillar represents the allotted element and animal of the specified
year of birth, the second refers to the element and animal of the specified month, the third
relates to the element and animal of the specified day, while the fourth denotes the element and
animal of the specified hour of birth. While the year column offers information on ancestry, the

month column relates to parentage, and the day and hour columns offer an insight into
characteristics of a spouse and children, respectively. Each animal sign of the Chinese Zodiac is
also linked with the traditional agricultural calendar.
Chinese Astrology Characteristics
To know your traits as per Chinese astrology, this article is the perfect read. Read on to know
more.

The Chinese zodiac consists of a 12-year cycle where each year has been named after a
different animal that determines as to what characteristics are attributed to the sign. As per
Chinese astrology, the year in which a person is born plays the primary role in determining the
individual's traits, personalities, physical and mental attributes, and the degree of happiness and
success that the individual would attain through their lifetime. In this article, I have highlighted as
to which sign you belong to and what are the traits as per the Chinese astrology. Remember that
the Chinese New Year begins on the first new moon of the following year and you need to take
this into account if your birthday falls in January or early February.
Rat
Year of Birth: 1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Characteristics: A person born under this sign will be ambitious, imaginative, sincere, and
passionate and will tend to spend excessively on luxuries. The people belonging to this sign will

be compatible with the people born under Dragon, Ox, and Monkey, while they will not get along
well with people born under the sign of Horse.
Ox
Year of Birth: 1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Characteristics: A person born under this sign will be intelligent, stubborn, and traditional.
He/she will have good leadership skills and will be able to inspire confidence in other people.
The people belonging to this sign will be compatible with the people born under Snake, Rat, and
Rooster, while they will not get along well with people born under the sign of Sheep.
Tiger
Year of Birth: 1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Characteristics: A person born under this sign will be sensitive, courageous, short tempered,
and of a suspicious nature. Also, they take too much of time to arrive at a decision and as a
result, the decisions taken are either hasty or very late. The people belonging to this sign will be
compatible with the people born under Dog and Horse, while they will not get along well with
people born under the sign of Monkey.
Rabbit
Year of Birth: 1903, 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Characteristics: A person born under this sign will be talented, affectionate, articulate, ambitious,
tactful, and kind. They love to indulge in healthy gossip and also make good gamblers. The
people belonging to this sign will be compatible with the people born under Boar and Sheep,
while they will not get along well with people born under the sign of Monkey.
Dragon
Year of Birth: 1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Characteristics: A person born under this sign will be passionate, robust, short tempered,
stubborn, popular, fun loving, and lead a life full of enthusiasm. They love to indulge in healthy
gossip and also make good gamblers. The people belonging to this sign will be compatible with
the people born under Monkey, while they will not get along well with people born under the sign

of Dog.
Snake
Year of Birth: 1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Characteristics: People born under this sign are strong willed, intense, vain, selfish, intense, and
passionate. They are also very wise and never undergo financial difficulties during their lifetime.
They are compatible with the people born under Ox and Rooster, while they do not get along
well with people born under the sign of Boar.
Horse
Year of Birth: 1906, 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Characteristics: People born under this sign are good looking, popular, cheerful, perceptive,
wise, educated, and are fond of entertainment and large crowds. The people belonging to this
sign are compatible with the people born under Dog and Tiger, while they do not get along well
with people born under the sign of Rat.
Sheep
Year of Birth: 1907, 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Characteristics: People born under this sign are aesthetic, shy, pessimistic, and will be very
successful in life, which will help them enjoy all the materialistic pleasures available in the world.
The people belonging to this sign will be compatible with the people born under Rabbit and
Boar, while they will not get along well with people born under the sign of Ox.
Monkey
Year of Birth: 1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
Characteristics: Persons born under this sign are persuasive, intelligent, clever, and innovative,
which helps them solve difficult issues very easily. They have an excellent memory and also
have a deep desire for knowledge. The people belonging to this sign will be compatible with the
people born under Dragon and Rat, while they will not get along well with people born under the
sign of Tiger.

Rooster
Year of Birth: 1909, 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Characteristics: A person born under this sign seeks knowledge and truth. They believe
immensely in themselves, and are deeply disappointed when they fail. These people are
compatible with the people born under Snake and Ox, while they do not get along well with
people born under the sign of Rabbit.
Dog
Year of Birth: 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
Characteristics: People born under this sign are generous, loyal, and deep thinkers. They have a
deep sense of loyalty and inspire other people to trust them, as they never betray anybody's
confidence. The people belonging to this sign are compatible with the people born under Horse
and Tiger, while they do not get along well with people born under the sign of Dragon.
Boar
Year of Birth: 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Characteristics: People born under this sign are gallant and noble. They usually do not make
friends easily, but if they do choose you as a friend, then you are the luckiest person in the
world, as they will always stick by you under every circumstance. These people are compatible
with the people born under Rabbit and Sheep, while they do not get along well with people born
under the sign of Snake.
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/chinese-astrology-characteristics.html

Chinese Zodiac Sign Snake

"Never ever cross a snake, it bears a grudge and waits for the right moment to strike." This is
apparently an apt description of a person with the Chinese zodiac sign of a snake.
Twelve different animal signs represent the Chinese zodiac or the Chinese astrology, which is
different from the western zodiac system. Chinese animal signs or the zodiac signs follow the
cyclical concept of time, and not the linear concept. Another point worth mentioning here is that
the Chinese Lunar Calendar is based on the movements of the moon, rather than the sun. You
should also know that the Chinese New Year falls between mid-January and early February.
Though in modern times the Chinese have adopted the western calendar for festivals and other
special occasions, they still traditionally follow the lunar calendar. The twelve animals that make
up the Chinese Zodiac are rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster,
dog,

and

pig.

The word "serpent" or "snake" may remind you of the serpent that tempted Eve to seduce
Adam. However, the Chinese astrological serpent is not considered devious, but wise and
intelligent. The people who were born in the years 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977,1989,
2001,

and

2013

belong

to

this

zodiac

sign.

Characteristics
One of the characteristics of the people with the Chinese zodiac sign snake is they have
excellent communication skills, and also display a good temperament. Women born under this
sign

are

said

to

be

beautiful,

charming,

and

sensual.

Men and women born under this sign are said to be wise and romantic. They are also thinkers
and great planners. A snake person would think twice or deeply on a particular subject before
responding. He/she would use the words carefully, and most of the time follows his/her intuition.
One of the inspiring quality about a person born under this sign is that he/she is a lover of good

music, arts, and food. Snake also appreciates company of the learned people. Snake people
are charmers, have a good sense of humor, and also have a positive outlook.
Snakes have excellent negotiating skills and leadership qualities. Another noteworthy
characteristic of a snake is his/her immense presence of mind even at the time of crisis.
Jealousy and suspicious nature are the negative qualities of the snake people. People born
under this sign tend to procrastinate a lot. They are also stingy in spending and in other moneyrelated

matters.

Snake

is

unforgiving

in

nature

if

he/she

loses

trust

in

you.

Snakes generally excel in the professional fields such as fortune-telling, teaching, writing,
counseling, psychiatry, and philosophy. They also make good businessmen as they display no
emotions while taking decisions related to business and while dealing with financial issues. A
snake is most compatible with ox and rooster, and highly incompatible with monkey, pig, and
tiger.

Chinese Zodiac: Year of the Rooster

According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Rooster is said to be motivated, proud, romantic, blunt,
and boastful. Here are some other characteristics associated with this Chinese zodiac sign.

Chinese astrology is based on the Sexagenary cycle of 60 years that has been documented
since the time of the Shang Dynasty. This cycle has been constructed from two cycles. One is
the 10 heavenly stems and the other the 12 earthly branches, or the 12-year cycle of the
animals, referred to as the Chinese zodiac. Not only this, the zodiac also operates on a cycle of
months, or "moons", and the hours of the day. It refers to a pure cylindrical cycle, with no
equivalents like those of the occidental zodiac. In the imperial times, there were astrologers who
watched for heavenly omens.

The ancient Chinese astronomers called the five major planets by the name of the element they
were associated with. According to this, Venus corresponds to Metal (gold), Mercury to Water,
Saturn to Earth, Jupiter to Wood, and Mars to Fire. According to this, a person's destiny can be
determined by the position of the major planets, along with the position of the Moon, Sun,
comets, and the person's time of birth and zodiac sign. The 12-year cycle referred to above was
built from the observations of the orbit of Jupiter. This is a laborious system of computing one's
fate and destiny based on ones' birthday and birth hours. It is used regularly till date in modernday Chinese astrology to divine one's fortune. The 28 Chinese constellations are different from
the 88 Western constellations. Apart from astrological readings, the heavenly bodies and the
stars in the sky also form the basis of many fairy tales.
The Rooster
According to the Chinese zodiac, Roosters are very loyal individuals who do not like mockery
and dishonesty of any kind. They are up front, blunt, and honest people who expect the same
from those around them. Roosters are the happiest when surrounded by people. When the
spotlight is on them, they exhibit charisma and wit. These people expect you to listen to him/her,
and can become agitated if you don't. They are inclined to brag about themselves and their
achievements.
The Elements Associated with the Rooster
The characteristics of the Rooster are tempered by one of the 5 Chinese elements - Metal,
Water, Fire, Wood, and Earth overlaying a 5-year cycle of characteristics on the original 12.
The Metal Rooster (1920 and 1981):
Metal Roosters are sometimes proud, while at other times they are reasonable people who
seem to analyze every decision they make and every situation they find themselves in. There
are situations where they are standoffish too. It is advisable for metal Roosters to take a
breather from their egos long enough to really enjoy what they have to offer.
The Water Rooster (1933 and 1993):
The Water Rooster is a little quieter than the other Roosters, in that he/she is also not as vocal
and/or hungry for spotlight. These people make great communicators and have boundless
energy, which sometimes gets caught up in detail and causes a lapse in concentration. Water
Roosters should learn to appreciate detail, but not be rigid about it.
The Wood Rooster (1945 and 2005):
The Wood Rooster likes being part of a team rather than being in the spotlight. He/she is a

genuine friend and likes being in the company of others. Wood Roosters work diligently to
remove the evils of society and expect the same quality attempts from others who are involved
with the cause. They are so caught up with the desire to help society, that they the sometimes
commit themselves and are unable to finish what they have begun.
The Fire Rooster (1957 and 2017):
The Fire Rooster spends a lot of time on looking good. He/she is dramatic and likes to flaunt,
and is a brilliant organizer who loves to plan gatherings and parties. Fire Roosters have a
tendency to be a little bossy and blunt, because of which others get hurt. On the whole, these
people make great leaders and are creative, motivated, and hardworking.
The Earth Rooster (1909 and 1969):
Earth Roosters are very organized and a little reserved too. They are also hard workers and can
multitask quite efficiently. They take on responsibility without a cause and want to be successful.
If work is not up to their standards, they can be rough with colleagues, which can cause
resentment. Thus, these people should be careful in the way they express their point of view.

Chinese Zodiac Compatibility Chart

In the Chinese astrology, zodiac signs are represented by twelve animals. Similar to western
astrology, some signs are very compatible with each other while some are not. Buzzle provides
a zodiac chart depicting compatibility between all 12 signs.
TAGGED UNDER: Chinese Astrology
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Ancient Chinese astrology was based on the lunisolar calendar. According to it, the new year
begins somewhere between late January and early February. One of the major differences
between Chinese and western astrology is that in Chinese astrology, the 12 signs are equal to
12 years (and not months). Therefore, an entire year is represented by one sign. As the cycle

rotates after 12 years, the animals repeat after every 12 years.

The 12 animal signs or Chinese zodiac signs (in order) are rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake,
horse, goat (sheep), monkey, rooster (cock), dog, and pig (boar).
Now, as the Chinese zodiac animal signs are yearly based, they are easy to figure out. Simply
knowing the birth year a person will help in finding out his/her zodiac sign. Take a look at the
following chart to know the love compatibility between two signs.
Compatibility Chart
In the following chart, Ra (rat), Ox (ox), Ti (tiger), Rb (rabbit), Dr (dragon), Sn (snake), Ho
(horse), Go (goat), Mo (monkey), Ro (rooster), Do (dog), and Pi (pig).
* (where is compatible, is incompatible, and = stands for mixed chances)
Ra
Ox
Ti
Rb
Dr
Sn
Ho
Go
Mo
Ro
Do
Pi
Rat = = = =
Ox = = = = =
Tiger = = = =
Rabbit = = = = =
Dragon = = = =
Snake = = = =
Horse = = = =

Goat = = = = =
Monkey = = = = =
Rooster = = = = =
Dog = = = =
Pig = = = = =
Chinese Astrology Compatibility
Similar to western astrology, the 12 signs are divided into four parts or trines, consisting of 3
animals each. The basic nature of signs belonging to a single trine is similar. All 3 signs of a
single trine are very compatible to each other. At the same time, note that a sign can also be
compatible to other signs (refer to the chart). Two people are said to be compatible when they
have similar or complementing characteristics or traits. Animals that are within 4 years of each
other are believed to have similar personalities. It should be noted that the ruling planets and
other elements also affect the compatibility between two signs. Wood, fire, Earth, metal, water
are the five elements that rule Chinese zodiac signs.

1st trine (Rat, Dragon, Monkey)

Individuals belonging to these signs are action oriented, aggressive, competitive, intelligent, and
powerful. They seek power and make excellent rulers. Relationships with these individuals can
be very passionate. When paired with each other, they complement each other beautifully.
The year of Rat falls on 1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
The year of Dragon falls on 1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
The year of Monkey falls on 1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028

2nd trine (Ox, Snake, Rooster)

Individuals belonging to these signs are quite opposite to the group mentioned above. These
individuals are calm, modest, and usually are deep thinkers. They are also very patient and

have a cautious nature. They have strong opinions. These individuals, when together, form a
successful relationship.
The year of Ox falls on 1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1997, 2009, 2021
The year of Snake falls on 1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
The year of Rooster falls on 1909, 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029

3rd trine (Tiger, Horse, Dog)

These individuals are active and down-to-earth. Although independent, they require a constant
assurance of support and affection. They can get along extremely well and form a good
relationship of any nature. However, they are also very egoistical.
The Year of Tiger falls on 1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1960, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
The year of Horse falls on 1906, 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
The year of Dog falls on 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030

4th trine (Rabbit, Goat, Pig)

These individuals are gentle and peace-loving. They are sympathetic, cooperative, and are
more of givers in a relationship. Coupled together, they make great pairs. Sometimes, they may
appear very detached and reserved.
The year of Rabbit falls on 1903, 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
The year of Sheep falls on 1907, 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
The year of Pig falls on 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Astrological compatibility is a very interesting topic. Next time you meet a new person, you may
want to check out this chart. However, note that this is not the ultimate guide to determine the
fate of a relationship. It provides only a guideline, and not a foolproof formula for relationship
compatibility. Several other factors affect human relationships. Lastly, note that a lot of love and

understanding can make a romantic relationship work and last forever. Good luck!
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/chinese-astrology-compatibility-chinesezodiac-compatibility-chart.html