Are you one of them?

The 12 zodiac signs, which are integral to the Chinese system of astrology, are far removed from the 12 signs of western zodiac.

Chinese astrology is based on simple calculations. It divides time in 60-year circle. Each circle is a chain of years with a gap of 12 years.

Twelve years are connected to the 12 animal signs or 12 earthly branches. These are related to one’s year of birth.

The chart on right will help you know your animal sign, and also to know your character traits. Please refer to the lunar calendar for knowing the exact date on which the Chinese New Year begins. The Chinese calendar, unlike its western counterpart, begins somewhere in the last week of January or the beginning of February.

One might wonder how these animals have found a place for themselves in Chinese astrology.

The story goes like this: The 12 animals had once visited Lord Buddha and asked him to bless them. Lord Buddha named each year after them, following the order of their arrival, the rat, the ox, the tiger, the rabbit, the dragon, the snake, the horse, the ram, the monkey, the rooster, the dog and the pig.

Since then, it is believed that these 12 animals became the symbol of 12 earthly branches. These animals have granted their characteristics and personality to individuals who are born under their respective signs.

It is amazing how each individual can relate to these 12 animals.

Rats are thought to be ambitious, motivated and are concerned with material security. They can be strong-willed and ambitious. Their intuitive powers and the ability to sense bad omen justify the old saying about rats deserting a sinking ship. They work independently and always ensure that they have made no mistakes. They organise parties well. Because of their lively nature, they are always on the top of the invitee list. They do well in sales and accountancy and make good publishers, writers and musicians.

Oxen are usually dependable, hard-working and usually shoulder a lot of burden. They are very practical in life and are unlikely to be swept off their feet by mesmerising but unrealistic proposals. They are everybody’s favourite because of their honesty and patience. An ideal partner for them is one who is gentle, sincere and truthful. They make good counsellors, philosophers, astrologers, teachers and estate managers.

Tigers are, of course, charismatic, daring and a little impractical. They love to enjoy life, and are excited about the thought of travelling all around the world. They hate living a restrained life. Friends admire them for their generosity, optimism, charm and enthusiasm. They do well in travel, designing and advertising.

Rabbits are naive, and hold a moderate approach towards life. They are tranquil and peace loving by nature and are sensitive to the world around them. They keep away from complications and confrontations. Their carefully balanced emotions are easily destabilised by volatile situations.

They have a magnetic, graceful and charismatic personality and they often look for a partner who is trustworthy, protective and compassionate. Rabbits make good counsellors, barristers, solicitors and judges mainly because of their composed and balanced nature.

(To be continued)