Discover the secrets of the Chinese horoscope, its 12 animals and the elements that influence each sign. Explore how these ancient traditions shape personalities and destinies, revealing a unique view of the world and life.

There are 12 signs in the Chinese horoscope: Rat, Bull, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (Ram), Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Each of these signs is represented by a specific animal, each with its own unique characteristics that reflect different aspects of the personality and destiny of people born under its influence.

But why were these animals chosen to represent the signs of the Chinese Horoscope? And why do they follow this specific order? Also, does the year a person was born really affect their character and life path?

These questions have their answers rooted deep in Chinese folklore, a tradition rich in stories and myths that have been passed down from generation to generation. Among the many legends surrounding the Chinese Horoscope, there is a particularly famous one that explains the origin of these signs and the reason for their order. This legend not only reveals the mysteries behind the Chinese Horoscope, but also offers a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and beliefs.

Sharing this legend can be a fascinating way of connecting with others, whether it's passing on cultural knowledge or simply entertaining. You can share it with friends during a conversation, or tell it to your children as an engaging bedtime story. Either way, this narrative is a cultural treasure that deserves to be known and passed on.

The celestial race - who comes first?

There was a time when the Chinese Horoscope didn't exist yet. Then, the Jade Emperor, the lord of the heavens, decided to choose 12 animals that would be responsible for guarding peace and harmony in his celestial kingdom.

To accomplish this task, the Emperor sent his immortal emissary to the earthly world with a solemn order: all the animals were to appear at the Emperor's Palace. The first 12 to cross the Heavenly Gates would be granted special favor and honor, earning a prominent place in the Chinese Horoscope and the privilege of representing the cycle of years.

The morning people: the Wise Rat and the Patient Bull

The next day, all the animals headed for the Heavenly Gate, eager to secure their place in the Chinese Horoscope. The Rat, always cunning, got up very early and set off towards the palace. On reaching the river, however, he came across a swift current and decided to wait for a better opportunity to cross.

After a while, the Rat spotted the Bull, a strong and trustworthy animal, approaching the riverbank. Seeing a chance, the ingenious Rat approached and, with a quick leap, entered the Bull's ear, without the Bull noticing.

The patient Bull, unperturbed, continued on his way and crossed the river with ease. When he reached the Celestial Palace, he ran towards the Celestial Gates. However, before he could be the first to arrive, the Rat jumped out of the Bull's ear and threw himself at the Jade Emperor's feet. The Rat thus secured first place, while the Bull, who had carried the Rat on his back, came second.

Soon after, the determined Tiger arrived, securing third place. With his strength and agility, the Tiger had fought against the current of the river, showing his courage and dexterity.

Shortly after came the Rabbit, which secured fourth place. Although smaller in size, the Rabbit was cunning, crossing the river by jumping from stone to stone and using floating logs to reach the other bank.

The noble Dragon and the determined Snake

Soon afterwards, the Dragon flew in majestically, the fifth to appear before the Jade Emperor. He explained that he had been a little late because he had to rain down flames on a city to help put out a fire. The Lord of Heaven, impressed by the Dragon's nobility and beauty, recognized his importance and placed him fifth in the Chinese Horoscope.

The Emperor then decided that the sixth place would be reserved for the Dragon's son, believing that he would also come with his father. However, the Dragon's son didn't show up that day. At that moment, the Serpent, who had crept in silently, declared that the Dragon was her adoptive father. With that, she claimed sixth place in the Chinese Horoscope and was accepted by the Emperor.

The friendly and humble: the Horse and the Goat

The Horse and the Goat arrived at the Heavenly Gate at almost the same time. Both were friendly and humble animals, and instead of competing, they began to insist that the other pass through first. This display of courtesy caught the attention of the Jade Emperor, who was impressed by the politeness and respect they showed for each other. Recognizing their kindness, the Emperor decided to award the Horse seventh place, while the Goat took eighth place in the Chinese Horoscope.

The ingenious and agile Monkey

The Monkey, realizing that he was falling behind, didn't let himself be discouraged. With his characteristic agility, he began to leap from tree trunk to tree trunk and from stone to stone, moving quickly towards the Celestial Palace. Thanks to his cleverness and dexterity, the Monkey made it in time and secured ninth place in the Chinese Horoscope.

Rooster, Dog and Pig were the last to arrive. The Dog, who naturally should have arrived earlier, especially as he is an excellent swimmer, ended up being late. After a long race, he decided to take advantage of the river and cool off, losing track of time while enjoying the water. As a result, he ended up in eleventh place.

And so it was determined that these 12 animals would become the guardians of the Heavenly Gate, each representing a year in the Chinese Horoscope cycle and influencing the personality and destiny of those born under their sign.

And the cat?

Although Cat and Mouse were neighbors, Cat had a habit of constantly mocking Mouse. The Mouse, in turn, was offended, but, being smaller and more fragile, didn't dare confront the Cat directly. Instead, the Rat harbored resentment and began to plot his revenge.

When the Jade Emperor's decree was announced, summoning all the animals to the Celestial Palace, the Rat saw his perfect opportunity. He hatched a plan and slyly muttered to himself: "Now let's see who will win."

The Cat, who was known for his love of long naps, asked the Mouse to wake him up in the morning so that they could leave for the palace together. The Mouse, disguised, promptly promised that he would.

The next morning, even before dawn, the Rat woke up very early and set off towards the palace, leaving the Cat fast asleep. When the Cat finally woke up, it was too late to join the race. He had missed his chance to be part of the select circle of animals in the Chinese Horoscope.

From that day on, a deep enmity arose between Cat and Mouse. Cat's resentment of Mouse turned into constant persecution, and ever since, mice run away as soon as they see a cat.

In another version of the legend, both the Cat and the Rat ran together to the river and climbed on the head of the Bull, who offered to help them cross the stream. However, while the Bull was swimming across the river, the Rat, eager to secure his victory, pushed the Cat into the water. The Cat was carried away by the current, falling behind and thus losing his chance to enter the Chinese Horoscope. That's why cats are afraid of water to this day.

So why do we often hear the phrase "Year of the Cat / Rabbit"?

Perhaps this confusion is the result of an error that occurred when countries under the cultural influence of China adopted the Chinese Horoscope tradition. In the Vietnamese Horoscope, for example, the Cat actually takes the place of the Rabbit.

According to one version of the story, this substitution may have occurred due to a phonetic similarity between the words in the two languages. The Chinese word for "rabbit" ("mǎo tù") has a similar sound to the Vietnamese word "meo", which means "cat". This misinterpretation may have led to the inclusion of the Cat in the Vietnamese Horoscope instead of the Rabbit, altering the original tradition.

Find your Chinese zodiac sign

Determine your year of birthFind the year in which you or the person was born in the table.

Identify the corresponding animal: The animal that rules that year reveals the person's sign in the Chinese horoscope.

Find your Chinese zodiac sign

Unlike the Western horoscope, which is divided by months, the Chinese horoscope is organized by lunar years. Each year is ruled by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese Horoscope, and the cycle is repeated every 12 years. This distribution is linked to the lunar calendar, and Chinese New Year, which marks the beginning of a new year under the rulership of a new animal, usually takes place between the end of January and the beginning of February.

The influence of the 12 signs of the Chinese horoscope

Character traits

The legends of the Chinese Horoscope reflect popular ideas about the characteristics and peculiarities of the 12 animals that make it up. Therefore, when someone mentions a person's Chinese Horoscope sign, they are usually referring to character traits that resemble those of the animal associated with that person's year of birth.

For example, when talking about people born in the year of the Rat, one immediately thinks of perceptive, ingenious and perceptive individuals. The Rat is seen as cunning and adaptable, always finding ways to overcome challenges. Taurus, on the other hand, is associated with qualities such as determination, honesty, reliability and a strong sense of hard work. People born under the sign of Taurus are often described as persevering and practical, with a willingness to face difficulties with firmness and patience.

The Tiger, on the other hand, symbolizes courage and power. Those born under this sign are often seen as natural leaders, with an adventurous spirit and a competitive nature. The Rabbit, on the other hand, is known for its gentleness, elegance and sensitivity. People of the sign of the Rabbit are often diplomatic and have a strong sense of empathy.

The Dragon, a symbol of strength and majesty, is associated with dynamic and charismatic personalities. Those born in the year of the Dragon are seen as confident and ambitious, always striving for success. The Snake, on the other hand, is seen as mysterious and intuitive. People of this sign are considered wise, profound and skilled at keeping secrets.

The Horse represents freedom and passion. Individuals born under this sign are generally independent, energetic and free-spirited. The Goat (or Ram), known for its gentleness and compassion, is associated with creative personalities who are sensitive and concerned about the well-being of others.

The Monkey, famous for its intelligence and adaptability, characterizes ingenious and curious people who love to learn and try new things. The Rooster is synonymous with precision and honesty. People of the sign of the Rooster tend to be detail-oriented, hard-working and reliable.

The Dog, a symbol of loyalty and justice, is associated with faithful, honest individuals who deeply value personal relationships. Finally, the Pig, known for its generosity and sincerity, represents honest, altruistic people who appreciate life's simple pleasures.

Chinese Horoscope Compatibility

In the Chinese horoscope, each sign has unique characteristics that influence the way it interacts with others. Some sign combinations make it easier to build harmonious relationships, while others can face greater challenges. Below is an overview of how the different signs relate to each other:

  • Mouse: Finds it easy to relate to Dragon, Taurus e Monkey. However, you may have difficulties with Sheep, Horse e Coelho.
  • Taurus: Gets on well with Mouse, Snake e Roosterbut finds it challenging to deal with Horse, Dog e Goat.
  • Tiger: Forms good connections with Horse e Dogbut may find it difficult to relate to Snake e Monkey.
  • Coelho: Are you comfortable with Sheep, Pork e Dogbut you may encounter obstacles with Mouse e Dragon.
  • Dragon: Easy to relate to Mouse, Monkey e Roosterbut may face difficulties with Taurus, Dog e Coelho.
  • Snake: Finds affinity with Taurus e Roosterbut you may have challenges with Tiger e Pork.
  • Horse: Do you feel comfortable with Tiger, Goat e Dogbut you may have difficulties with Mouse, Taurus e Coelho.
  • Goat: It's easy to connect with Coelho, Horse e Porkbut can face challenges with Taurus e Dog.
  • Monkey: Forms good relations with Mouse, Dragon e Snakebut you may have difficulties with Tiger e Pork.
  • Rooster: Finds affinity with Taurus, Dragon e Snakebut you may have difficulties with Mouse, Coelho e Dog.
  • Dog: It's easy to connect with Tiger, Coelho e Horsebut can face challenges with Taurus, Dragon, Goat e Rooster.
  • Pork: Are you comfortable with Goat e Coelhobut you may have difficulties with Snake, Monkey and another Pork.

As noted, the ease or complexity of communication between signs is not necessarily bidirectional. For example Mouse finds it easy to relate to the Dragon, and the Dragon also feels the same affinity with Mouse. However, some relationships can be more one-sided; a Horse may find it difficult to communicate with a Coelhowhile Coelho can feel comfortable with the Horse.

Compatibility in love

It's interesting to note that, over time, China has developed a special system of recommendations for the love compatibility of the 12 signs of the Chinese horoscope. This system takes into account the characteristics and energies associated with each animal, helping to identify the most harmonious combinations for relationships and marriages.

For example, those born in the year of the Rat are considered more compatible in marriage with people born in the years of the Dragon, Rabbit or Taurus. The Dragon, with its strength and charisma, complements the Rat's cunning and ingenuity, forming a dynamic and balanced partnership. The Rabbit, with its gentleness and sensitivity, brings harmony and understanding to the relationship, while the Bull, known for its determination and reliability, offers the stability and security that the Rat values.

This compatibility system is not limited to the Rat; each Chinese Horoscope sign has its own ideal combinations, based on a deep understanding of each animal's qualities and traits. For example, the Tiger, with its bold and passionate nature, is said to be most compatible with the Horse and Dog, who share its adventurous and loyal spirit. The Rabbit, on the other hand, finds harmony with the Goat (Ram) and the Pig, both signs that value peace and understanding.

This practice of analyzing love compatibility based on the Chinese Horoscope is still used by many to guide decisions in relationships, bringing to light the rich cultural tradition that links the characteristics of the animals in the Chinese Horoscope to human interactions.

Yin and Yang

The concept of Yin and Yang is the basis of ancient Chinese philosophy, representing an endless chain of change, where two fundamental principles interact in constant movement and transformation. These two principles, known as the active masculine force Yang and passive female strength YinThey are described as opposing but complementary forces that together create the essential balance of life and the universe.

  • Yang corresponds to the active masculine principle. It is associated with light, heat, day, expansion, strength and action. Yang is the energy that drives, that creates movement and that is always seeking growth and development.
  • Yin corresponds to the passive feminine principle. It is associated with darkness, cold, night, contraction, softness and receptivity. Yin is the energy that welcomes, nourishes and sustains, providing the necessary balance for the movement created by Yang.

The doctrine of Yin and Yang holds that these forces not only interact with each other, but also directly influence human actions and behavior. According to this philosophy, the cyclical nature of Yin and Yang affects the way people conduct their lives and businesses over the years.

  • In the year YinDuring this period, people tend to use the strength and resources they have previously accumulated to finish projects and resolve unfinished business. It is a period of reflection, consolidation and completion, where the focus is on completing what has been started, reorganizing and preparing the ground for future initiatives.
  • In the year YangOn the other hand, people become more active, energetic and inclined to start new ventures. It's a time of action, growth and expansion, where dynamism and the courage to explore new horizons are on the rise.

This cyclical and continuous interaction between Yin and Yang is what maintains balance in the universe, and the union of these two principles gave rise to the five fundamental elements of Chinese philosophy: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. These elements are the physical manifestations of Yin and Yang energies and together they form the basis of all existence, influencing nature, seasonal cycles, life events and even the human personality.

The philosophy of Yin and Yang teaches us that life is a dance between these opposing but interdependent forces. To achieve harmony and balance, it is essential to recognize the importance of both principles, embracing both Yin and Yang in our lives and seeking a natural flow between them.

The elements in the Chinese Horoscope

Nowadays, few people aren't familiar with the 12 signs of the Chinese horoscope, each represented by an animal. However, fewer people know that Chinese astrology also uses five fundamental elements to more accurately describe a person's character. These elements are Metal, Wood, Fire, Water and Earth. This approach is a little different from what we find in Western astrology, but it offers an equally rich and meaningful perspective.

Each of the 12 signs of the Chinese horoscope, as well as being associated with an animal, is ruled by one of the five elements, which change according to the year. In addition, the signs are divided into yin (feminine) and yang (masculine) energies, and each sign has a patron planet (Venus, Jupiter, Mercury, Mars and Saturn). The elements interact and connect in specific ways, and the relationship between them can reveal a lot about a person's compatibility.

Below are the basic principles of these interactions:

  1. Wood feeds the firebut can be destroyed by metal.
  2. Fire creates the Earthbut can be erased by water.
  3. The Earth gives rise to Metalbut it could be destroyed by Madeira.
  4. Metal generates Waterbut it can be destroyed by fire.
  5. Water gives rise to Woodbut it can be contained by the Earth.

For example, in a forest fire, the fire consumes the wood, generating ashes that form the earth. From this earth, metal can be extracted, which, when melted, flows like water. The water, in turn, can put out the fire, which melts the metal, which can cut the wood. This cycle shows how the elements influence each other, creating a dynamic balance.

With this in mind, two people are more likely to understand each other better if they belong to neighboring elements, due to the way these elements interact harmoniously. However, it's important to remember that "understanding" is not synonymous with "loving" - compatibility on an elemental level can facilitate communication and understanding, but doesn't necessarily guarantee a loving connection.

Characteristics of the 5 Elements of the Chinese Horoscope

Water

  • Features: Wise and liberal
  • Shape: Wavy
  • Symbolic color: Black and dark blue
  • Direction: North
  • Image: Turtle

People born under the Water element in the Chinese horoscope have a personality marked by emotion, sensitivity, flexibility and intuition. They are diplomatic and persuasive individuals, endowed with exceptional interpersonal skills that allow them to build harmonious relationships and influence those around them.

One of the great strengths of these personalities is their ability to communicate. They are able to express their ideas so effectively that they can often convince even their opponents to agree with them. Their approach is consistent and firm, which allows them to turn any opposition into an advantage. In addition, they follow their inner feelings and trust their intuition to make the right decisions at the right time.

Thanks to their natural ability to connect with others, these people have a great opportunity to promote their ideas and positively influence those around them. Another strength is their ability to identify talents and skills in the people around them, distributing responsibilities effectively in a team. For this reason, they often stand out as leaders, recognizing and valuing the hard work of others.

However, Water personalities also have their challenges. They can sometimes be escapists, avoiding confrontation or difficult situations. In addition, they can be inconsistent and passive, depending too much on the support of other people to move forward. It's important to remember that Water characteristics can manifest in different ways: some can be deep and vast like the ocean, while others can be calm and contained like water in a glass.

Madeira

  • Features: Kindness
  • Format: Rectangle
  • Colors: Green and blue
  • Meaning: East and southeast
  • Image: Dragon

People born under the Wood element in the Chinese horoscope have a strong but sensitive and vulnerable personality. They are individuals who tend to put the collective good before their own interests, a characteristic that defines true leaders and makes them the solid foundation of any enterprise or social group. Known for their generosity and warmth, these individuals are usually very popular in their circles, naturally attracting the admiration and respect of others.

People of the Wood element have a strong moral sense and believe that high values are essential for society. They recognize and appreciate the inner value of things, which makes them able to find joy and satisfaction in the little things in life. This outlook allows them to live simply, being content with little and finding beauty in the subtleties of everyday life.

Due to their wide and varied interests, Madeira personalities are fascinating conversationalists. They have a natural ability for systemic thinking, which makes them excellent managers at all levels. Always looking for renewal and growth, these people are ambitious and collaborative, working tirelessly to achieve their goals. Their generosity and altruism also stand out, as they are always willing to share recognition and rewards with their team.

In addition, these people tend to attract support and funding relatively easily, as others trust their vision and entrepreneurial skills. However, their tendency to take on more tasks than they can handle can be a challenge. When overloaded, they can become exhausted and sometimes fail to finish what they started.

It's important to remember that Wood personalities are diverse and manifest in a variety of ways. Just as in nature, where Wood can present itself in both the grandeur of a baobab and the delicacy of a jasmine bush, these individuals can display a wide range of characteristics, from robust strength to subtle grace.

Fire

  • Features: Bright and warm
  • Shape: Triangle
  • Colors: Orange, red, pink and purple
  • Meaning: South
  • Image: Phoenix

People born under the Fire element in the Chinese horoscope have a decisive, self-confident and often aggressive personality. They are natural leaders, always looking for adventure and innovation, and are rarely idle. Driven by a constant need to explore new horizons, these people are always busy with some exciting activity. Like the fire that represents them, they attract others with their brilliance and dynamism, radiating a contagious energy that inspires and motivates those around them.

Igneous personalities have a strong inclination to dominate situations and the people around them. With their originality, intelligence and remarkable manipulation skills, they often manage to impose their will and achieve their goals. They are not intimidated by problems; in fact, challenges only motivate them even more, strengthening their determination to achieve their goals.

However, in order to win their support, it is essential that they are on your side from the start. Otherwise, gaining their help can be a difficult task. Those who wish to interact with Fire element personalities should be aware that these people can be prone to aggression and may try to achieve their goals through force. Their selfishness, at times, can make them inattentive and impatient, requiring a lot of patience and compassion from those around them to curb these tendencies.

Despite their intensity, it's important to remember that fiery personalities are diverse and manifest in a variety of ways. Just as fire can present itself in both the fury of a forest fire and the calm of a candle flame, these people can exhibit a range of behaviors, from fiery passion to focused serenity.

Terra

  • Features: Stable, reliable and stubborn
  • Format: Square
  • Colors: Yellow, brown and beige
  • Meaning: North-east and south-west
  • Image: Emperor

People born under the Earth element in the Chinese horoscope have a serious, logical and methodical personality. They have a clear vision and excellent deductive skills, which make them intelligent, efficient and objective in everything they do. Extremely dedicated to their work, these people know how to manage their resources in order to obtain the best possible results. They are good planners and competent administrators, especially careful in financial matters.

Conservative by nature, Earth personalities tend to be reserved and modest, preferring to keep a low profile. Their strengths include common sense, reliability, discipline and a stability that is unshakeable. Security, in all its forms and manifestations - whether material, financial, emotional or physical - is their main concern. They value security and work hard to build a solid foundation that can sustain them and protect those around them.

However, despite their effectiveness and responsibility, these people can sometimes be seen as selfish or uncreative. Their tendency to follow safe and tested paths can limit their ability to innovate or think outside the box. Even so, their ability to guarantee stability and security makes them indispensable figures in any team or family.

It's important to remember that, just as in nature, the personalities of the Earth element are numerous and varied. Some can be as imposing and firm as a mountain, while others are more subtle and delicate, like the earth that supports a vase of flowers. This diversity reflects the depth and complexity of people ruled by this element, who bring with them the strength and stability of the earth itself.

Metal

  • Features: Sharp and honest
  • Shape: Circular and oval
  • Colors: White, gold and silver
  • Direction: West and northwest
  • Image: Tiger

People born under the Metal element in the Chinese horoscope have a strong, resilient and success-oriented personality. They have a clear understanding of what they want and pursue their goals with unwavering confidence and determination. They usually manage to achieve their goals, regardless of the obstacles or failures they may encounter along the way, and do not appreciate interference in their affairs. They prefer to deal with concrete facts and have a practical and straightforward approach to tackling challenges.

Although they can be seen as irrational, inflexible and stubborn, Metal personalities are self-sufficient and able to solve their problems on their own. They have a strong desire to control their own destiny and a remarkable ability to persevere to the end, never giving up on their goals. Impulsive and full of energy, these people have the strength to change what they don't like and are always ready to take action.

Typically, individuals ruled by Metal are prosperous or have a strong desire for luxury and comfort. They seek to create a life that reflects their ambitions and appreciation for the good things in life. However, despite their quest for success and material stability, it's important to remember that Metal personalities are diverse and can manifest in various ways. Just as Metal can present itself in the form of a sharp sword or a precious jewel, these people can display both the cutting force and the refined beauty of the element that rules them.

The time in the Chinese horoscope

In the Chinese horoscope, the 24 hours of the day are divided into 12 two-hour periods, and each of these periods is ruled by one of the 12 signs of the Chinese horoscope. This division reflects the influence of each animal of the Chinese horoscope on the different hours of the day, and it is believed that the sign that rules the period in which a person was born can influence their personality, in addition to the sign of their year of birth.

Here is a brief explanation of this division:

  1. Rat (23:00 - 01:00)The Rat period, associated with the darkness and silence of the night, is when the Rat is most active. People born in this period tend to be intelligent, cunning and agile.
  2. Ox (01:00 - 03:00)This period is ruled by the Ox, which symbolizes hard work and patience. Those born at this time tend to be persistent, determined and reliable.
  3. Tiger (03:00 - 05:00)The Tiger, known for its courage and vigor, rules this period. People born here are often courageous, energetic and passionate.
  4. Rabbit (05:00 - 07:00): This period is ruled by the Rabbit, symbol of sensitivity and diplomacy. Those born at this time are generally kind, careful and have a good aesthetic sense.
  5. Dragon (07:00 - 09:00)The Dragon, powerful and auspicious, rules this period. People born at this time tend to be charismatic, ambitious and full of vitality.
  6. Snake (09:00 - 11:00)The Snake, associated with wisdom and mystery, rules this period. Those born here are usually wise, perceptive and enigmatic.
  7. Horse (11:00 - 13:00)This period is ruled by the Horse, which represents freedom and energy. Those born at this time tend to be independent, energetic and full of life.
  8. Goat (13:00 - 15:00)The Goat, symbol of gentleness and tranquillity, rules this period. People born at this time are generally kind, empathetic and creative.
  9. Monkey (15:00 - 17:00): The Monkey, intelligent and resourceful, rules this period. People born during this time are known for being clever, curious and resourceful.
  10. Rooster (17:00 - 19:00)The Rooster, associated with punctuality and precision, rules this period. People born at this time tend to be organized, meticulous and diligent.
  11. Dog (19:00 - 21:00): This period is ruled by the Dog, which symbolizes loyalty and honesty. People born at this time are usually loyal, reliable and protective.
  12. Pig (21:00 - 23:00)The Pig, associated with generosity and comfort, rules this period. People born during this time are generally generous, tolerant and fond of comfort.