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The Chinese Zodiac
by Donna Thomson

Welcome to an overview of the Chinese Zodiac. The twelve Chinese horoscope signs are represented by twelve carefully chosen animals. These are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep (or Goat), Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Together, the signs are part of a 12-year astrological cycle and your sign wiill depend on which year you were born. Note that the years are Chinese years so each year begins on Chinese New Year rather than 1st January.

The Chinese Zodiac is first divided into the five elements: Metal, Earth, Fire, Wood and Water. Then it's divided into the 12 animal signs, so people who have the same sign can have different elemental influences which can bring in different qualities. Briefly...
Metal People are determined, ambitious, self-reliant and good problem-solvers.
Earth People are logical, intelligent, reliable and make good planners and administrators.
Fire People are confident, adventurous, good decision-makers and natural-born leaders.
Wood People have high morals, make very good friends, are unselfish and have faith in their abilities.
Water People are very good communicators, flexible in their thinking and have excellent intuition.

Below you'll find an overview of each of the 12 Chinese Zodiac signs. Just locate the year in which you were born and note which of the 5 elements is associated with it, which relates to the information above. For each sign you'll find keywords that describe both the positive and negative qualities of the sign, plus information about the nature, characteristics and attributes of the signs.

Rat

Keywords:
[+] Protector, Materialistic, Bringer of Prosperity, Wealth, Charm, Order, Intelligent, Ambitious, Strong will, Idealistic, Tolerant, Fair
[-] Aggressive, Death, War, The Occult, Pestilence, Atrocities, Money, Stubborn, Dangerous, Cruel, Sneaky, Critical, Manipulation

The Rat is the very first animal of the Chinese Horoscope Cycle. A Rat is good at leading and conquering. Many famous emperors of Chinese history where Rats. Being able to charm others, Rat people are generally charismatic and full of passion. What makes them unique is their practical and dominant mind which gives them the ability to be organized, tactful and systematic. The other side of a Rat can reveal a very controlling person who always insists in doing everything its own way, at all costs. A Rat can also be very cruel and dangerous, especially when challenged. People under this major Chinese Horoscope sign are well known for their ability to use their master minds to exploit other's emotions, feelings and thoughts.

Ewyen Minh, a Chinese Astrologer, tells us about the Rat:
"..People born under the sign of Rat are noted for their charm and attraction for the opposite sex. They are hardworking and consequently often financially wealthy. They are likely to be perfectionists. Rat people are easily angered and love to gossip. Their ambitions are big, and they are usually very successful. The Mouse is very social and has many friends who supports in generous ways. The family is important; Rats are loyal to their family and will fight for it if needed.."

Ox

Keywords:
[+] Dependable, Powerful, Patient, Tireless, Extravagant, Logic, Systematic, Imagination, Honesty, Sociable
[-] Uncompetitive, Inflexible, Possessive, Stubborn, Eccentric, Critical, Intolerant

The Ox is a powerful Chinese Horoscope sign which symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Ox people are usually very hard working and stubborn. Being admirer of power and possession, this Chinese Horoscope sign like to depend on itself to achieve all kinds of great things. Ox people are also a bit slow when making their decisions, especially if they are given a lot of options to choose from. Once they decide on something though, nobody can make them go another way. You can't easily get an Ox person to speak to you, but once you earn their trust, they will open their heart and mind in a very sincere and true way. An Ox can be a good and loyal friend.

Ewyen tells us about the Ox:
"..People born under the sign of Ox are patient, taciturn, and inspire confidence in others. They tend to be eccentric, and bigoted, and they anger easily. They have fierce tempers and although they speak little, when they do they are quite eloquent. Ox people are mentally and physically alert. Generally easy-going, they are remarkably stubborn, and they hate to fail or be opposed.."

Tiger

Keywords:
[+] Good Fortune, Power, Royalty, Respect, Wisdom, Optimism, Determination, Instinctive, Courage, Generous, Sympathy
[-] Fearsome, Complicated, Inflexible, Self Centered, Conflict, Hasty, Suspicious

Chinese astrologers consider the Tigers (not the lions) as kings of all animals. Tiger people are usually very attractive and persuasive. You cannot resist them easily and at the same time, you cannot attract their interest unless you try hard and be sincere. They like mystery, fairy tales and stories about courage and love. They will likely spend an adventurous life triggered by their instincts and strong emotions. Another important attribute of people under the Chinese Horoscope sign of Tiger, is the fact that they like surprises and out of the ordinary situations. If you want to have a Tiger as a friend then it's up to you to make sure your friendship will last since a Tiger will generally find it hard to maintain any relationship.

Ewyen tells us about the Tiger:
"..People born under the sign of Tiger are sensitive, given to deep thinking, capable of great sympathy. They can be extremely short-tempered, however. Other people have great respect for them, but sometimes tiger people come into conflict with older people or those in authority. Sometimes Tiger people cannot make up their minds, which can result in a poor, hasty decision or a sound decision arrived at too late. They are suspicious of others, but they are courageous and powerful.."

Rabbit

Keywords:
[+] Attractive, Thoughtful, Luck, Cultured, Well mannered, Peace, Secure, Calm, Tactful, Virtue, Taste
[-] Over Sensitive, Anxious, Conservative, Complicated, Self Centered, Timid, Deceptive

The Rabbit is well known for its ability to attract good fortune and be lucky. Rabbit people, apart from being attractive to the opposite sex, they are also very good at solving complex situations and problems. Many well known Chinese politicians and diplomats belong to the Rabbit. Another aspect of this Chinese Horoscope sign reveals tendency to cultural activities and the arts. A Rabbit hates fighting and engaging in aggressive behaviors or activities because of its peaceful nature. Last but not least, Rabbit people hate surprises or unpredicted results and you may annoy them if you try to involve them in any risky situation. That is why it is likely that Rabbit people will miss several good chances in their lives.

Ewyen tells us about the Rabbit:
"..People born in the Year of the Rabbit are articulate, talented, and ambitious. They are virtuous, reserved, and have excellent taste. Rabbit people are admired, trusted, and are often financially lucky. They are fond of gossip but are tactful and generally kind. Rabbit people seldom lose their temper. They are clever in business and being conscientious, never back out of a contract. They would make good gamblers for they have the uncanny gift of choosing the right thing. However, they seldom gamble, as they are conservative and wise.."

Dragon

Keywords:
[+] Attractive, Strength, Power, Wealth, Royal, Active, Brave, Dignity, Authority, High Standards, Passionate, Vibrant
[-] Selfish, Self Centered, Megalomania, Manipulative, Arrogant, Hatred, Jealousy, Suspicious, Liar, Demanding

Dragons are mythical powerful creatures worshiped by Chinese culture. A Dragon symbolizes strength, health, harmony and intellectuality. Many consider Dragon people extremely lucky and blessed. People under this eccentric Chinese Horoscope sign are generally charismatic and gifted with great powers. It is unlikely for a Dragon to go unnoticed from a social meeting or a party. Their unique attitude and self confidence will always work wonders in such situations. Dragon people are also well known for their honesty and sense of duty. These characteristics can sometime work against them because others will tend to take advantage of them. If a Dragon is your friend feel free to confide in them.

Ewyen tells us about the Dragon:
"..People born in the Year of the Dragon are healthy, energetic, excitable, short-tempered, and stubborn. They are also honest, sensitive, brave, and they inspire confidence and trust. Dragon people are the most eccentric of any in the eastern zodiac. They neither borrow money nor make flowery speeches, but they tend to be soft-hearted which sometimes gives others an advantage over them.."

Snake

Keywords:
[+] Wise, Interesting, Innovative, New, Patience, Helpful, Speed, Philosophical, Discreet, Diplomatic
[-] Prideful, Judgmental, Conviction, Poison, Betray, Vanity, Fickle, Doubtful

The Snake (Serpent) is strongly related with deep and eternal wisdom. Snake people are always enigmatic and maybe the most wise of all Chinese Horoscope signs. A Snake usually evolves to become a philosopher, deep thinker, theosophist, magician or leader of the back scene. Snake people love learning, reading and eating good food. They are also very concerned about their outer appearance. Their best attribute is their excellent ability to communicate with others and successfully engage in interesting conversations. Snake people love new ideas and innovative thoughts and actions, but they will usually reject advice from anyone but themselves.

Ewyen tells us about the Snake:
"..People born in the Year of the Snake are deep. They say little and possess great wisdom. They never have to worry about money; they are financially fortunate. Snake people are often quite vain, selfish, and a bit stingy. Yet they have tremendous sympathy for others and try to help those less fortunate. Snake people tend to overdo, since they have doubts about other people's judgment and prefer to rely on themselves. They are determined in whatever they do and hate to fail. Although calm on the surface, they are intense and passionate. Snake people are usually good-looking and sometimes have martial problems because they are fickle.."

Horse

Keywords:
[+] Genuine, Inquisitive, Quick witted, Inspiration, Imagination, Freedom, Persuasive, Spirit, Independent
[-] Impulsive, Anxious, Selfish, Quick Tempered, Tactless, Inconsistent

The Horse is a Chinese Horoscope sign that always expects to be free. Horse people are self confident and usually determined enough to succeed on their goals. They like to attract general attention and to be flattered, but they will know if someone really appreciates their skills or not. Another attribute of the Horse is honesty. Horse people are usually honest and genuine with others and can have a lot of friends if they choose so. You should expect to receive good advice from a Horse if you take the time to explain your situation carefully. A Horse can also be brave but at the same time too sensitive. This sensitivity may sometimes trigger their defense mechanisms for no reason.

Ewyen tells us about the Horse:
"..People born in the Year of the Horse are popular. They are cheerful, skillful with money, and perceptive, although they sometimes talk too much. They are wise, talented, good with their hands, and sometimes have a weakness for members of the opposite sex. They are impatient and hot-blooded about everything except their daily work. They like entertainment and large crowds. They are very independent and rarely listen to advice.."

Goat/Sheep

Keywords:
[+] Artistic, Caring, Sensitive, Gentle, Modest, Creative, Generous, Intuition, Destiny
[-] Melancholy, Shy, Insecure, Impractical, Misinterpretation, Irresponsible, Lazy, Indecisive

The Sheep (Ram) is a very interesting Chinese Horoscope sign. It has a female nature and a lot of positive attributes like the tendency to be artistic and the interest in fashion. Sheep people are caring and they will try not to hurt others with their actions. That is why they like to think before they act. Sheep people are considered to be extremely shy. A Sheep is well mannered and can support its opinions. Sometimes, the fact that they are shy makes them insecure and they happen to say the wrong thing at the wrong time. A Sheep type of person is usually sensitive and need to feel loved and protected.

Ewyen tells us about the Sheep:
"..People born in the Year of Sheep are elegant and highly accomplished in the arts. They seem to be, at first glance, better off than those born in the zodiac's other years. But Sheep year people are often shy, pessimistic, and puzzled about life. They are usually deeply religious, yet timid by nature. Sometimes clumsy in speech, they are always passionate about what they do and what they believe in. Sheep people never have to worry about having the best in life for their abilities make money for them, and they are able to enjoy the creature comforts that they like. Sheep people are wise, gentle, and compassionate.."

Monkey

Keywords:
[+] Reliable, Honest, Solution, Fun, Charm, Invention, Versatile, Intelligent, Humorous, Flexibility
[-] Curious, Manipulation, Capricious, Superficial, Careless, Noise, Coward

The Monkey is the most flexible Chinese Horoscope sign of all. Monkey people usually end up as inventors, scientists, artists or people who entertain the masses one way or the other. They are very creative and can be considered geniuses at a later stage in their lives. Monkey people tend to take control of a situation by being aware of what is going on around them. This in fact is a great gift they possess that will guide them through their lives. Another interesting attribute is their reliability. If you have a friend who is a Monkey it is likely that they will keep any secret you share with them. Monkey people are also honest, funny and they make a good company or companion.

Ewyen tells us about the Monkey:
"..People born in the Year of the Monkey are the erratic geniuses of the cycle. Clever, skillful, and flexible, they are remarkably inventive and original and can solve the most difficult problems with ease. There are few fields in which Monkey people wouldn't be successful but they have a disconcerting habit of being too agreeable. They want to do things now, and if they cannot get started immediately, they become discouraged and sometimes leave their projects. Although good at making decisions, they tend to look down on others. Having common sense, Monkey people have a deep desire for knowledge and have excellent memories. Monkey people are strong willed but their anger cools quickly.."

Rooster

Keywords:
[+] Sociable, Attractive, Outer Appearance, Beautiful, Attention, Spotlight, Braveness, Resilient
[-] Critical, Over Flatter, Talk, Materialistic, Overly Romantic, Pretentious, Exhibitionism

The Rooster is the tenth Chinese Horoscope sign. Number ten (10) is considered a lucky number in Chinese culture and it is not a coincidence that a Rooster is supposed to be very fortunate. Rooster people like to carefully observe everything and they are usually successfull with their observations. They are courageous, brave and independent spirits, but on the other hand they can become pretentious, obsessed and self absorbed. A Rooster is sociable at times and will love to meet new places and new people. Rooster people always like to be in the center of attention especially when it comes to their friends and family. They would do anything to achieve that.

Ewyen tells us about the Rooster:
"..People born in the Year of the Rooster are deep thinkers, capable, and talented. They like to be busy and are devoted beyond their capabilities and are deeply disappointed if they fail. People born in the Rooster Year are often a bit eccentric, and often have rather difficult relationship with others. They always think they are right and usually are! They frequently are loners and though they give the outward impression of being adventurous, they are timid. Rooster people's emotions like their fortunes, swing very high to very low. They can be selfish and too outspoken, but are always interesting and can be extremely brave.."

Dog

Keywords:
[+] Loyalty, Target, Modest, Dependable, Patience, Intelligence, Memory, Senses, Honesty, Caring
[-] Self Righteous, Petty, Accusing, Escape, Yell, Judgmental, Quick Tempered, Eccentric

The Dog is the most loyal Chinese Horoscope sign of all. Dog people can be trusted to keep secrets or accomplish all kinds of difficult tasks as partners. If there's one thing they like to do is to take care of their outer appearance. Dog people love good looks and can express interesting opinions about fashion and styling. Another great characteristic of Dog people is their patience, especially with other people. They use their minds to understand situations, provide smart solutions and they will usually do anything to help others. A Dog has a very positive attitude and can attract friends like a magnet.

Ewyen tells us about the Dog:
"..People born in the Year of the Dog possess the best traits of human nature. They have a deep sense of loyalty, are honest, and inspire other people's confidence because they know how to keep secrets. But Dog People are somewhat selfish, terribly stubborn, and eccentric. They care little for wealth, yet somehow always seem to have money. They can be cold emotionally and sometimes distant at parties. They can find fault with many things and are noted for their sharp tongues. Dog people make good leaders.."

Pig

Keywords:
[+] Honest, Social, Patience, Advantage, Backstage, Peaceful, Talented, Sensual, Hospitable, Altruism
[-] Withdrawal, Conservative, Snobbish, Pessimistic, Competitive, Militaristic

The Pig is the twelfth and the last sign of the Chinese Horoscope cycle. It symbolizes fertility and good fortune. Chinese believe that people who are born under this sign will be honest and they will achieve happiness that way. Pig people are indeed very honest and patient. They prefer to work behind the scene. It will take time to feel comfortable with a Pig person but once you do you will be presented with a warm heart ready to support you in any case. Pig people are peaceful creatures who like hanging around in the nature. They love mountains, lakes, meadows etc. The Pig prefers to live in the country side instead of a big city.

Ewyen tells us about the Pig:
"..People born in the Year of the Pig are chivalrous and gallant. Whatever they do, they do with all their strength. For Boar Year people, there is no left or right and there is no retreat. They have tremendous fortitude and great honesty. They don't make many friends but they make them for life, and anyone having a Pig Year friend is fortunate for they are extremely loyal. They don't talk much but have a great thirst for knowledge. They study a great deal and are generally well informed. Pig people are quick tempered, yet they hate arguments and quarreling. They are kind to their loved ones. No matter how bad problems seem to be, Pig people try to work them out, honestly if sometimes impulsively.."

References
Chinese Astrology: www.chineseastrologer.org
Five Elements: http://kamalkapoor.com

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