Chinese Astrology, based upon Ying-Yang and Five Elements,
which are Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth, developed independently of the
western tradition. There are twelve signs in Chinese astrology as well but
are based on a different zodiacal structure. Most people tend to stereotype
Chinese astrology as an over-simplified system of one personality type that
applies to everyone in a given year. However, this astrology has a set of
interpretative rules and divisions of topic in life equally complex as
western or Indian astrology. One will note the cultural influence in Chinese
astrology delineations that reflects the importance of family and ancestors.
The Origin
The origins of Chinese astrology is not exactly known complicated but most
of the methods may have developed in the time period equated with the Middle
Ages in the West.
The Modern Version
The modern practice of Chinese astrology tends to focus on the Four Pillars
and the 5 elements, Earth, Fire, Water, Wood and Metal. Each person has
characteristics of four animal signs as well as four elemental combinations.
The year, month, day and hour signs present different aspects of the
personality.
Nuances Of Chinese Astrology
According to Chinese astrology, the year of birth tells your age but also
indicates a certain phase or aspect of sixty year circle of time. In Chinese
system of astrology, each year begins early in the calendar year on a new
moon and relates to one of the twelve animals. Their qualities animate the
year and color it with their distinct natures. People born in a particular
animal year share certain common traits in the same manner as people born in
common zodiac do.
Significance of Animals
Thus it is necessary to know not only about the astrological relevance of
different types of animals which represent the years but also about the
methods used to predict the future in Chinese astrology.
Animals & Their Respective Qualities
Rat: Essentially charming. Compassionate. Renowned for thrift and
love of family, at times rather superficial.
Ox: Calm, patient, studied character. Takes things slow, steady
pace. At times rather dictatorial. Always industrious.
Tiger: Very warm, loving. Independent minded. Pays scant regard for
other's feelings while pursuing fun and freedom.
Rabbit: Also known as the
Cat or Hare. Very sensitive
soul. Loves spending time at home. Although quiet and discreet, still
ambitious. Self-indulgent.
Dragon: Charismatic and colorful. Wants to be center of attention.
Very arrogant.
Snake: High moral principles, mostly when applied to other.
Sophisticated and charming. More than meets the eye.
Horse: Confident and proud. Prone to erratic behavior. Heart is in
right place. Scatty.
Goat: Sensitive, creative and multitalented. Eccentric. Much
Fortitude. Loves to be loved, hates to be pushed.
Monkey: Wily and cunning. Ignores regimented rules. Free spirit.
Rooster: Brave and enthusiastic. Notoriously picky. Highly
intelligent. Rarely has wool pulled over its eyes.
Dog: Honest, loyal, sincere. Believes in justice for all. Fights for
principles. Sometimes bad tempered, self-righteous.
Boar: Will do anything for anybody. Model of sincerity and honor.
Occasionally fits of rage. Self-sacrificing and altruistic.
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