Chinese Astrology

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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