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{{Short description|Astrology based on Chinese astronomy}}
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{{More citations needed|date=April 2009}}
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'''Chinese astrology''' (as it is known today) is the [[divination]] of the future from the [[Chinese calendar]], particularly its 12-year cycle of animas, referred to as the Chinese Zodiac. This fortune-telling system is derived from the principle characteristics of the system: the Zodiac, the five elements of Chinese thought, calendrical cycles based on astronomy, and ancient Chinese religion.
'''Chinese astrology''' is based on traditional [[Chinese astronomy]] and the [[Chinese calendar]]. Chinese astrology flourished during the [[Han dynasty]] (2nd century BC to 2nd century AD).<ref name=Ho>{{cite book | last=何|first=丙郁| title = Chinese mathematical astrology : reaching out to the stars | date = 2003 | publisher = Routledge| isbn = 0415297591}}</ref>


Chinese astrology has a close relation with [[Chinese philosophy]] (theory of the three harmonies: heaven, earth, and human), and uses the principles of [[yin and yang]], ''[[wuxing (Chinese philosophy)|wuxing]]'' (five phases), the ten [[Heavenly Stems]], the twelve [[Earthly Branches]], the [[Chinese calendar|lunisolar calendar]] (moon calendar and sun calendar), and the time calculation after year, month, day, and ''[[Traditional Chinese timekeeping|shichen]]'' ({{lang|zh|時辰}}, double hour). These concepts are not readily found or familiar in [[Western astrology]] or culture.
The Chinese Zodiac refers to a pure calendrical cycle: there are no equivalent [[constellation]]s like for the occidental [[zodiac]]. In imperial times there were astrologers who watched the sky for heavenly [[omen]]s that would predict the future of the state: but this was a quite different practice of divination than the popular present-day methods.


==History and background==
==Background==
<!--
The ancient Chinese astronomers called the five major planets by the names of the [[Five elements (Chinese philosophy)|element]] they were associated with: [[Venus (planet)|Venus]] corresponds to Metal (gold); [[Jupiter (planet)|Jupiter]] to Wood; [[Mercury (planet)|Mercury]] to Water; [[Mars (planet)|Mars]] to Fire; [[Saturn (planet)|Saturn]] to Earth. It is said that the position of these planets, along with the positions of the Sun, Moon, any comets in the sky as well as time of birth and Zodiac Sign can determine a person's destiny according to Chinese Astrology.
HIDDEN EDITOR NOTE:
DO NOT ADD ANY INFORMATION WITHOUT CITING A RELIABLE SOURCE
UNSOURCED ADDITIONS WILL BE REMOVED
-->
Chinese astrology was elaborated during the [[Zhou dynasty]] (1046–256 BC) and flourished during the [[Han dynasty]] (2nd century BC to 2nd century AD). During the Han period, the familiar elements of traditional Chinese culture—the yin-yang philosophy, the theory and technology of the five elements ([[Wuxing (Chinese philosophy)|Wuxing]]), the concepts of heaven and earth, and Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian morality—were brought together to formalize the philosophical principles of Chinese medicine and divination, astrology and alchemy.<ref>{{cite book |first=Xiaochun |last=Sun |first2=Jacob |last2=Kistemaker |title=The Chinese Sky during the Han: Constellating Stars and Society |pages=3-4 |location=Leiden |publisher=Brill |year=1997 |isbn=978-90-04-10737-3}}</ref>


The five [[classical planet]]s are associated with the ''[[wuxing (Chinese philosophy)|wuxing]]'':
A laborious system of computing one's fate and destiny based on one's birthday and birth hours (known as Zi Wei Dou Shu 紫微斗數 zǐwēidǒushù) is still used regularly in modern day Chinese astrology to divine one's fortune. The twenty-eight [[Chinese constellation]]s (宿 ''xìu'') are quite different from the eighty-eight Western constellations. For example, the Big Dipper ([[Ursa Major]]) is known as 斗 ''dǒu;'' the belt of [[Orion (constellation)|Orion]] is known as 參 ''shen'', or the "Happiness, Fortune, Longevity" trio of demigods.
* [[Venus]]—Metal ([[White Tiger (mythology)|White Tiger]])
The seven northern constellations are referred to as ''xúanwǔ'' (玄武). Xuan Wu is also known as the spirit of the northern sky or the spirit of Water in [[Taoism]] belief.
* [[Jupiter]]—Wood ([[Azure Dragon]])
* [[Mercury (planet)|Mercury]]—Water ([[Black Tortoise]])
* [[Mars]]—Fire ([[Vermilion Bird]]) (may be associated with the phoenix which was also an imperial symbol along with the [[Dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]])
* [[Saturn]]—Earth ([[Yellow Dragon]])


According to Chinese astrology, a person's fate<ref>{{Cite book |last=Levitt |first=Ellen Dorn |title=Fate A Chinese Zodiac |publisher=Center Press, John L. Norris Art Center, Lyndon Institute |year=2013 |edition=1st |location=London |pages=1–130 |language=English}}</ref> can be determined by the position of the major planets at the person's birth along with the positions of the Sun, Moon, comets, the person's time of birth, and [[Chinese zodiac|zodiac sign]]. The system of the twelve-year cycle of animal signs was built from observations of the orbit of [[Jupiter]] (the Year Star; {{zh|s=岁星|t=歳星|p=Suìxīng}}). Following the orbit of Jupiter around the Sun, Chinese astronomers divided the celestial circle into 12 sections, and rounded it to 12 years (from 11.86). Jupiter is associated with the constellation ''Sheti'' ({{zh|labels=no|s=摄提|t=攝提}}- [[Boötes]]) and is sometimes called Sheti.
In addition to astrological readings of the heavenly bodies, the stars in the sky form the basis of many [[fairy tale]]s. For example, the [[Summer Triangle]] is the trio of the cowherd ([[Altair]]), the weaving maiden fairy ([[Vega]]) and the "tai bai" fairy ([[Deneb]]). The two forbidden lovers were separated by the silvery river (the [[Milky Way]]). Each year on the seventh day of the seventh month in the Chinese calendar, the birds form a bridge across the Milky Way. The cowherd carries their two sons (the two stars on each side of [[Altair]]) across the bridge to reunite with their fairy mother. The tai bai fairy acts as the chaperone of these two immortal lovers. See [[Qi Xi]] for more versions of this story.


A system of computing one's predestined fate is based on birthday, birth season, and birth hour, known as ''[[zi wei dou shu]]'' ({{zh|labels=no|s=紫微斗数|t=紫微斗數|p=zǐwēidǒushù}}), or Purple Star Astrology, is still used regularly in modern-day Chinese astrology to divine one's fortune. The 28 [[Chinese constellation]]s, ''Xiu'' ({{zh|labels=no|c=宿|p=xiù}}), are quite different from Western constellations. For example, the Big Bear ([[Ursa Major]]) is known as ''Dou'' ({{zh|labels=no|c=斗|p=dǒu}}); the belt of [[Orion (constellation)|Orion]] is known as ''Shen'' ({{zh|labels=no|s=参|t=參|p=shēn}}), or the "Happiness, Fortune, Longevity" trio of demigods. The seven northern constellations are referred to as ''Xuan Wu'' ({{zh|labels=no|c=玄武|p=xuánwǔ}}). Xuan Wu is also known as the spirit of the northern sky or the spirit of water in [[Taoist]] belief.
==Cycles==
The cycles of years that are in use nowadays are derived from the age-old [[sexagenary cycle]] of 60 days that has been documented at least since the time of the [[Shang Dynasty]]. This basic cycle has been constructed from two cycles: the 10 [[heavenly stems]] and the 12 [[earthly branches]], and this has later been applied to years instead of days.


In addition to astrological readings of the heavenly bodies, the stars in the sky form the basis of many [[fairy tale]]s. For example, the [[Summer Triangle]] is the trio of the cowherd ([[Altair]]), the weaving maiden fairy ([[Vega]]), and the "tai bai" fairy ([[Deneb]]). The two forbidden lovers were separated by the silvery river (the [[Milky Way]]). Each year on the seventh day of the seventh month in the Chinese calendar, the birds form a bridge across the Milky Way. The cowherd carries their two sons (the two stars on each side of [[Altair]]) across the bridge to reunite with their fairy mother. The tai bai fairy acts as the chaperone of these two immortal lovers.
There is a binary [[Yin Yang]] cycle, which enlarges the [[five elements]] cycle to a cycle of 10 (seen below). Even years are yang, odd years are yin. Since the zodiac animal cycle of 12 is divisible by two, every zodiac can only occur in either yin or yang: the dragon is always yang, the snake is always yin, etc. This combination creates a 60-year cycle, starting with Wood Rat and ending with Water Pig. The current cycle began in the year [[1996]].


==Five elements==
===Chinese zodiac===
{{Further|topic=this topic|Chinese zodiac}}
The Yin or Yang is broken down into [[Five elements (Chinese philosophy)|Five Elements]] ([[Metal (classical element)|Metal]], [[Wood (classical element)|Wood]], [[Water (classical element)|Water]], [[Fire (classical element)|Fire]], and [[Earth (classical element)|Earth]]) on top of the cycle of animas. These are [[modifiers]] and afflict the characteristics of each of the 12 signs. Each element has features that apply to both years and the animals. Each of the 12 animals are governed by an element plus a Yin Yang Direction. Divided into 4 groups
Chinese astrology has a close relation with Chinese philosophy. The core values and concepts of Chinese philosophy originate from Taoism.<ref name=Kistemaker>{{harvp|Sun|Kistemaker|1997|pp=22,85,176}}</ref>

Metal "governs" Monkey, Rooster and Dog. These three signs form the Chinese Autumn season, between 7 or 8 of August and 6 or 7 of November, approximately. The major "gods" (heavenly stems) of these signs are geng (yang Metal), xin (yin Metal) and wei (yang Earth)respectively.

===Metal (金)===

*The West ( 西方 )
*Respiratory system (呼吸系統 )
*Lungs ( 肺 )
*Useful ( 有用 )
*Faith ( 信念 )

*Sophistication ( 優雅 )
*Sadness ( 悲傷 )

''''Governs''''
Monkey, Rooster and Dog.

===Wood ( 木 )===
*The East ( 東方 )
*Nervous System ( 神經系統 )
*Liver ( 肝 )
*Creativity ( 創造性 )
*Nurturing ( 哺育 )
*Growth ( 成長 )
*Honesty ( 誠實 )
*Anger ( 憤怒 )

'''Governs'''
Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon

===Water ( 水 )===
*The North ( 北方 )
*Skeletal/Excretory System ( 骨骼 /排泄系統 )
*Kidneys ( 腎臟 )
*Communication ( 溝通 )
*Intuition ( 直覺 )
*Sensitivity ( 敏感 )
*Fear ( 恐懼 )

''''Governs'''
Pig, Rat, Ox

===Fire ( 火 ) ===
*The South ( 南方 )
*Circulatory system ( 循環系統 )
*Heart ( 心臟 )
*Passion ( 激情 )
*Intelligence ( 智能 )
*Movement ( 動作 )
*Humor ( 幽默 )
*Aggression ( 侵略性 )

''''Governs
Snake, Horse, Ram

===Earth ( 土 )===
*China ( 中國 )
*Center ( 中心 )
*Digestive system ( 消化系統 )
*Spleentomach ( 脾臟/胃 )
*Balance ( 平衡 )
*Foundations ( 基礎 )
*Reliable ( 可靠 )
*Worry ( 憂慮 )
<!--doesn't the earth govern 8 animals like the others?-->
Additionally, there is Earth, which to some governs the signs of the Dragon, Dog, Ram, and Ox. It is the central balance of all elements and can lend qualities to all 12 animals as well.

The elements are also associated with colors. The traditional correspondences are green to Wood, red to Fire, yellow to Earth, white to Metal, and black to Water. Some websites denote the years by the colour and zodiac sign (as opposed to animal sign and element).<ref>See http://www.chinesefortunecalendar.com/ (Notice the title "Red Dog Year".)</ref>

==The twelve animas==
Each individual personality is associated with an animal which represents it. This is where many Chinese Astrolonomy descriptions in western society draw solely from. Each year in the 60 year cycle contains twelve animals, each with five possible elements, which distinctively vary the base animal's personality which equals to 90 possible combinations.

===The twelve zodiac animals with their respective elements===
#[[Rat (zodiac)|rat]] - 水
#[[Ox (zodiac)|ox]] - 水， 土
#[[Tiger (zodiac)|tiger]] - 木
#[[Rabbit (zodiac)|rabbit]] - 木
#[[Dragon (zodiac)|dragon]] - 木，土
#[[Snake (zodiac)|snake]] - 火
#[[Horse (zodiac)|horse]] - 火
#[[Sheep (zodiac)|sheep]] - 火， 土
#[[Monkey (zodiac)|monkey]] - 金
#[[Rooster (zodiac)|rooster]] - 金
#[[Dog (zodiac)|dog]] - 金，土
#[[Pig (zodiac)|pig]] - 水

==Inner animals and secret animals==
It is a common misconception that there are only the singular animals assigned by year. These yearly cycles represent what others perceive you as being: while a person might appear to be a [[dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]] they might actually be a [[snake (zodiac)|Snake]] internally and an [[ox (zodiac)|Ox]] secretively. Combined with 5 elements, this makes for 8460 combinations (5 elements, 11 animals, 11 months, 11 times of day). The inner animal is assigned by the month of birth. This dictates your love life and inner persona and is critical to a proper understanding of your [[astrological compatibility|compatibility]] with other signs. It may be considered what the individual wishes to become, or believes to be their true self. The secret animal is determined by exact time of birth and is your own true sign which your personality is based on. It is important to compensate for [[daylight savings]] or any clock adjustment performed by your country, as it is mapped according to the sun's location and not the local time.

These are said to be critical for the proper use of Chinese astrology. Many [[Western culture|Western]] displays of the Chinese zodiac omit these, as well as the elements, for easier consumption and understanding.

===The months===
The twelve animals also apply to the [[lunar month]]s. The month born affects a person's inner animal, as stated above. Remember, the Chinese Calendar is offset to start in the traditional February, or even in late January.


==Table of the sixty-year calendar==
{{main|Chinese calendar|Sexagenary cycle}}
{{more citations needed|date=November 2021}}
<!--
HIDDEN EDITOR NOTE:
DO NOT ADD ANY INFORMATION WITHOUT CITING A RELIABLE SOURCE
UNSOURCED ADDITIONS WILL BE REMOVED
-->
The following table shows the 60-year cycle matched up to the Western calendar for the years 1924–2043 (see [[sexagenary cycle]] article for years 1924–1983). This is only applied to Chinese Lunar calendar. The [[sexagenary cycle]] begins at [[lichun]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://big5.china.com.cn/culture/txt/2009-02/16/content_17286701.htm |title="Almanac" "lunar" zodiac beginning of spring as the boundary dislocation? — China Network |date=16 February 2009 |access-date=5 January 2011}}</ref> Each of the Chinese lunar years are associated with a combination of the ten [[Heavenly Stems]] ({{zh|c=天干|p=tiāngān}}) and the twelve [[Earthly Branches]] ({{zh|c=地支|p=dìzhī}}) which make up the 60 Stem-Branches ({{zh|c=干支|p=gānzhī}}) in a sexagenary cycle.
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! rowspan=2 | &nbsp;||Year|| rowspan=2 | Associated<br />Element|| rowspan=2 | Heavenly<br />Stem|| rowspan=2 | Earthly<br />Branch
|-
! rowspan="2" |Stem-Branch
! style="background:#efefef;" | Solar<br>Longitude
({{lang|zh|干支}}) in Pinyin
! style="background:#efefef;" | Segment Name
! rowspan="2" | Associated<br />Animal||Year
! style="background:#efefef;" | Lunar Month<br>(Ordinal - Name)
|- align="center"
|-
! '''1924–1983''' || '''1984–2043'''
| align="right" | 314°
|- align="left"
| 立春 lìchūn
|1||Feb 05 '''1924'''–Jan 23 1925|| Yang Wood ||甲||子
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 1st - 鼠 Rat
|jiǎ-zǐ||[[Rat (zodiac)|Rat]]||Feb 02 '''1984'''–Feb 19 1985
|-
| align="right" | 329°
|- align="left"
|2||Jan 24 '''1925'''–Feb 12 1926|| Yin Wood ||乙||丑
| 雨水 yǔshuǐ
|yǐ-chǒu||[[Ox (zodiac)|Ox]]||Feb 20 '''1985'''–Feb 08 1986
|-
| align="right" | 344°
|- align="left"
|3||Feb 13 '''1926'''–Feb 01 1927|| Yang Fire ||丙||寅
| 啓蟄 qǐzhé (驚蟄 jīngzhé)
|bǐng-yín||[[Tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]]||Feb 09 '''1986'''–Jan 28 1987
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 2nd - 牛 Ox
|- align="left"
|-
|4||Feb 02 '''1927'''–Jan 22 1928|| Yin Fire ||丁||卯
| align="right" | 0°
|dīng-mǎo||[[Rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]]||Jan 29 '''1987'''–Feb 16 1988
| 春分 chūnfēn
|- align="left"
|-
|5||Jan 23 '''1928'''–Feb 09 1929|| Yang Earth ||戊||辰
| align="right" | 14°
|wù-chén||[[Dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]]||Feb 17 '''1988'''–Feb 05 1989
| 清明 qīngmíng
|- align="left"
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 3rd - 虎 Tiger
|6||Feb 10 '''1929'''–Jan 29 1930|| Yin Earth ||己||巳
|-
|jǐ-sì||[[Snake (zodiac)|Snake]]||Feb 06 '''1989'''–Jan 26 1990
| align="right" | 29°
|- align="left"
| 穀雨 gǔyǔ
|7||Jan 30 '''1930'''–Feb 16 1931|| Yang Metal ||庚||午
|-
|gēng-wǔ||[[Horse (zodiac)|Horse]]||Jan 27 '''1990'''–Feb 14 1991
| align="right" | 44°
|- align="left"
| 立夏 lìxià
|8||Feb 17 '''1931'''–Feb 05 1932|| Yin Metal ||辛||未
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 4th - 兔 Rabbit
|xīn-wèi||[[Goat (zodiac)|Goat]]||Feb 15 '''1991'''–Feb 03 1992
|-
| align="right" | 59°
|- align="left"
|9||Feb 06 '''1932'''–Jan 25 1933|| Yang Water ||壬||申
| 小滿 xiǎomǎn
|rén-shēn||[[Monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]]||Feb 04 '''1992'''–Jan 22 1993
|-
| align="right" | 74°
|- align="left"
|10||Jan 26 '''1933'''–Feb 13 1934|| Yin Water ||癸||酉
| 芒種 mángzhòng
|guǐ-yǒu||[[Rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]]||Jan 23 '''1993'''– Feb 09 1994
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 5th - 龍 Dragon
|- align="left"
|-
|11||Feb 14 '''1934'''–Feb 03 1935|| Yang Wood ||甲||戌
| align="right" | 89°
|jiǎ-xū||[[Dog (zodiac)|Dog]]||Feb 10 '''1994'''–Jan 30 1995
| 夏至 xiàzhì
|- align="left"
|-
|12||Feb 04 '''1935'''–Jan 23 1936|| Yin Wood ||乙||亥
| align="right" | 104°
|yǐ-hài||[[Pig (zodiac)|Pig]]||Jan 31 '''1995'''–Feb 18 1996
| 小暑 xiǎoshǔ
|- align="left"
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 6th - 蛇 Snake
|13||Jan 24 '''1936'''–Feb 10 1937|| Yang Fire ||丙||子
|-
|bǐng-zǐ||[[Rat (zodiac)|Rat]]||Feb 19 '''1996'''–Feb 06 1997
| align="right" | 119°
|- align="left"
| 大暑 dàshǔ
|14||Feb 11 '''1937'''–Jan 30 1938|| Yin Fire ||丁||丑
|-
|dīng-chǒu||[[Ox (zodiac)|Ox]]||Feb 07 '''1997'''–Jan 27 1998
| align="right" | 134°
|- align="left"
| 立秋 lìqiū
|15||Jan 31 '''1938'''–Feb 18 1939|| Yang Earth ||戊||寅
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 7th - 馬 Horse
|wù-yín||[[Tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]]||Jan 28 '''1998'''–Feb 15 1999
|-
| align="right" | 149°
|- align="left"
|16||Feb 19 '''1939'''–Feb 07 1940|| Yin Earth ||己||卯
| 處暑 chùshǔ
|jǐ-mǎo||[[Rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]]||Feb 16 '''1999'''–Feb 04 2000
|-
| align="right" | 164°
|- align="left"
|17||Feb 08 '''1940'''–Jan 26 1941|| Yang Metal ||庚||辰
| 白露 báilù
|gēng-chén||[[Dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]]||Feb 05 '''2000'''–Jan 23 2001
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 8th - 羊 Sheep
|- align="left"
|-
|18||Jan 27 '''1941'''–Feb 14 1942|| Yin Metal ||辛||巳
| align="right" | 181°
|xīn-sì||[[Snake (zodiac)|Snake]]||Jan 24 '''2001'''–Feb 11 2002
| 秋分 qiūfēn
|- align="left"
|-
|19||Feb 15 '''1942'''–Feb 04 1943|| Yang Water ||壬||午
| align="right" | 194°
|rén-wǔ||[[Horse (zodiac)|Horse]]||Feb 12 '''2002'''–Jan 31 2003
| 寒露 hánlù
|- align="left"
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 9th - 猴 Monkey
|20||Feb 05 '''1943'''–Jan 24 1944|| Yin Water ||癸||未
|-
|guǐ-wèi||[[Goat (zodiac)|Goat]]||Feb 01 '''2003'''–Jan 21 2004
| align="right" | 211°
|- align="left"
| 霜降 shuāngjiàng
|21||Jan 25 '''1944'''–Feb 12 1945|| Yang Wood ||甲||申
|-
|jiǎ-shēn||[[Monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]]||Jan 22 '''2004'''–Feb 08 2005
| align="right" | 224°
|- align="left"
| 立冬 lìdōng
|22||Feb 13 '''1945'''–Feb 01 1946|| Yin Wood ||乙||酉
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 10th - 雞 Rooster
|yǐ-yǒu||[[Rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]]||Feb 09 '''2005'''–Jan 28 2006
|-
| align="right" | 244°
|- align="left"
|23||Feb 02 '''1946'''–Jan 21 1947|| Yang Fire ||丙||戌
| 小雪 xiǎoxuě
|bǐng-xū||[[Dog (zodiac)|Dog]]||Jan 29 '''2006'''–Feb 17 2007
|-
| align="right" | 251°
|- align="left"
|24||Jan 22 '''1947'''–Feb 09 1948|| Yin Fire ||丁||亥
| 大雪 dàxuě
|dīng-hài||[[Pig (zodiac)|Pig]]||Feb 18 '''2007'''–Feb 06 2008
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 11th - 狗 Dog
|- align="left"
|-
|25||Feb 10 '''1948'''–Jan 28 1949|| Yang Earth ||戊||子
| align="right" | 271°
|wù-zǐ||[[Rat (zodiac)|Rat]]||Feb 07 '''2008'''–Jan 25 2009
| 冬至 dōngzhì
|- align="left"
|-
|26||Jan 29 '''1949'''–Feb 16 1950|| Yin Earth ||己||丑
| align="right" | 284°
|jǐ-chǒu||[[Ox (zodiac)|Ox]]||Jan 26 '''2009'''–Feb 13 2010
| 小寒 xiǎohán
|- align="left"
| rowspan="2" valign="center" align="center" | 12th - 豬 Pig
|27||Feb 17 '''1950'''–Feb 05 1951|| Yang Metal ||庚||寅
|-
|gēng-yín||[[Tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]]||Feb 14 '''2010'''–Feb 02 2011
| align="right" | 301°
|- align="left"
| 大寒 dàhán
|28||Feb 06 '''1951'''–Jan 26 1952|| Yin Metal ||辛||卯
|xīn-mǎo||[[Rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]]||Feb 03 '''2011'''–Jan 22 2012
|- align="left"
|29||Jan 27 '''1952'''–Feb 13 1953|| Yang Water ||壬||辰
|rén-chén||[[Dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]]||Jan 23 '''2012'''–Feb 09 2013
|- align="left"
|30||Feb 14 '''1953'''–Feb 02 1954|| Yin Water ||癸||巳
|guǐ-sì||[[Snake (zodiac)|Snake]]||Feb 10 '''2013'''–Jan 30 2014
|- align="left"
|31||Feb 03 '''1954'''–Jan 23 1955|| Yang Wood ||甲||午
|jiǎ-wǔ||[[Horse (zodiac)|Horse]]||Jan 31 '''2014'''–Feb 18 2015
|- align="left"
|32||Jan 24 '''1955'''–Feb 11 1956|| Yin Wood ||乙||未
|yǐ-wèi||[[Goat (zodiac)|Goat]]||Feb 19 '''2015'''–Feb 07 2016
|- align="left"
|33||Feb 12 '''1956'''–Jan 30 1957|| Yang Fire ||丙||申
|bǐng-shēn||[[Monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]]||Feb 08 '''2016'''–Jan 27 2017
|- align="left"
|34||Jan 31 '''1957'''–Feb 17 1958|| Yin Fire ||丁||酉
|dīng-yǒu||[[Rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]]||Jan 28 '''2017'''–Feb 15 2018
|- align="left"
|35||Feb 18 '''1958'''–Feb 07 1959|| Yang Earth ||戊||戌
|wù-xū||[[Dog (zodiac)|Dog]]||Feb 16 '''2018'''–Feb 04 2019
|- align="left"
|36||Feb 08 '''1959'''–Jan 27 1960|| Yin Earth ||己||亥
|jǐ-hài||[[Pig (zodiac)|Pig]]||Feb 05 '''2019'''–Jan 24 2020
|- align="left"
|37||Jan 28 '''1960'''–Feb 14 1961|| Yang Metal ||庚||子
|gēng-zǐ||[[Rat (zodiac)|Rat]]||Jan 25 '''2020'''–Feb. 11 2021
|- align="left"
|38||Feb 15 '''1961'''–Feb 04 1962|| Yin Metal ||辛||丑
|xīn-chǒu||[[Ox (zodiac)|Ox]]|| Feb 12 '''2021'''–Jan 31 2022
|- align="left"
|39||Feb 05 '''1962'''–Jan 24 1963|| Yang Water ||壬||寅
|rén-yín||[[Tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]]|| Feb 01 '''2022'''–Jan 21 2023
|- align="left"
|40||Jan 25 '''1963'''–Feb 12 1964|| Yin Water ||癸||卯
|guǐ-mǎo||[[Rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]]|| Jan 22 '''2023'''–Feb 09 2024
|- align="left"
|41||Feb 13 '''1964'''–Feb 01 1965|| Yang Wood ||甲||辰
|jiǎ-chén||[[Dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]]|| Feb 10 '''2024'''–Jan 28 2025
|- align="left"
|42||Feb 02 '''1965'''–Jan 20 1966|| Yin Wood ||乙||巳
|yǐ-sì||[[Snake (zodiac)|Snake]]|| Jan 29 '''2025'''–Feb 16 2026
|- align="left"
|43||Jan 21 '''1966'''–Feb 08 1967|| Yang Fire ||丙||午
|bǐng-wǔ||[[Horse (zodiac)|Horse]]|| Feb 17 '''2026'''–Feb 05 2027
|- align="left"
|44||Feb 09 '''1967'''–Jan 29 1968|| Yin Fire ||丁||未
|dīng-wèi||[[Goat (zodiac)|Goat]]|| Feb 06 '''2027'''–Jan 25 2028
|- align="left"
|45||Jan 30 '''1968'''–Feb 16 1969|| Yang Earth ||戊||申
|wù-shēn||[[Monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]]|| Jan 26 '''2028'''–Feb 12 2029
|- align="left"
|46||Feb 17 '''1969'''–Feb 05 1970|| Yin Earth ||己||酉
|jǐ-yǒu||[[Rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]]|| Feb 13 '''2029'''–Feb 02 2030
|- align="left"
|47||Feb 06 '''1970'''–Jan 26 1971|| Yang Metal ||庚||戌
|gēng-xū||[[Dog (zodiac)|Dog]]|| Feb 03 '''2030'''–Jan 22 2031
|- align="left"
|48||Jan 27 '''1971'''–Feb 14 1972|| Yin Metal ||辛||亥
|xīn-hài||[[Pig (zodiac)|Pig]]|| Jan 23 '''2031'''–Feb 10 2032
|- align="left"
|49||Feb 15 '''1972'''–Feb 02 1973|| Yang Water ||壬||子
|rén-zǐ||[[Rat (zodiac)|Rat]]|| Feb 11 '''2032'''–Jan 30 2033
|- align="left"
|50||Feb 03 '''1973'''–Jan 22 1974|| Yin Water ||癸||丑
|guǐ-chǒu||[[Ox (zodiac)|Ox]]|| Jan 31 '''2033'''–Feb 18 2034
|- align="left"
|51||Jan 23 '''1974'''–Feb 10 1975|| Yang Wood ||甲||寅
|jiǎ-yín||[[Tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]]|| Feb 19 '''2034'''–Feb 07 2035
|- align="left"
|52||Feb 11 '''1975'''–Jan 30 1976|| Yin Wood ||乙||卯
|yǐ-mǎo||[[Rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]]|| Feb 08 '''2035'''–Jan 27 2036
|- align="left"
|53||Jan 31 '''1976'''–Feb 17 1977|| Yang Fire ||丙||辰
|bǐng-chén||[[Dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]]|| Jan 28 '''2036'''–Feb 14 2037
|- align="left"
|54||Feb 18 '''1977'''–Feb 06 1978|| Yin Fire ||丁||巳
|dīng-sì||[[Snake (zodiac)|Snake]]|| Feb 15 '''2037'''–Feb 03 2038
|- align="left"
|55||Feb 07 '''1978'''–Jan 27 1979|| Yang Earth ||戊||午
|wù-wǔ||[[Horse (zodiac)|Horse]]|| Feb 04 '''2038'''–Jan 23 2039
|- align="left"
|56||Jan 28 '''1979'''–Feb 15 1980|| Yin Earth ||己||未
|jǐ-wèi||[[Goat (zodiac)|Goat]]|| Jan 24 '''2039'''–Feb 11 2040
|- align="left"
|57||Feb 16 '''1980'''–Feb 04 1981|| Yang Metal ||庚||申
|gēng-shēn||[[Monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]]|| Feb 12 '''2040'''–Jan 31 2041
|- align="left"
|58||Feb 05 '''1981'''–Jan 24 1982|| Yin Metal ||辛||酉
|xīn-yǒu||[[Rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]]|| Feb 01 '''2041'''–Jan 21 2042
|- align="left"
|59||Jan 25 '''1982'''–Feb 12 1983|| Yang Water ||壬||戌
|rén-xū||[[Dog (zodiac)|Dog]]|| Jan 22 '''2042'''–Feb 09 2043
|- align="left"
|60||Feb 13 '''1983'''–Feb 01 1984|| Yin Water ||癸||亥
|guǐ-hài||[[Pig (zodiac)|Pig]]|| Feb 10 '''2043'''–Jan 29 2044
|}
|}


===The hours===
==''Wuxing''==
{{main|Wuxing (Chinese philosophy)}}
The Chinese zodiac is also used to label times of day, with each sign corresponding to a "large-hour" or ''[[Chinese units#Time|shichen]]'' (時辰), which is a two-hour period. (24 divided by 12 animals) The larger hour a person is born is their secretive animal, as stated above.
{{more citations needed|section|date=November 2021}}
Although it is usually translated as 'element', the Chinese word ''xing'' literally means something like 'changing states of being', 'permutations' or 'metamorphoses of being'.<ref>{{cite book |first=Wolfram |last=Eberhard |title=A Dictionary of Chinese Symbols |pages=93, 105, 309 |publisher=Routledge and Keegan Paul |place=London |year=1986}}</ref> In fact, Sinologists cannot agree on one single translation. The Chinese notion of 'element' is therefore quite different from the Western one. In the west, India Vedic, and Japanese Go dai elements were seen as the basic building blocks of matter and static or stationary. The Chinese 'elements', by contrast, were seen as ever changing, and the transliteration of ''xing'' is simply 'the five changes' and in traditional Chinese medicine are commonly referred to as phrases. Things seen as associated to each ''xing'' are listed below.


===Wood ({{lang|zh|木}})===
* 23:00 - 01:00: rat
<!--
* 01:00 - 03:00: ox
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* 03:00 - 05:00: tiger
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* 05:00 - 07:00: rabbit
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* 07:00 - 09:00: dragon
-->
* 09:00 - 11:00: snake
* The [[East]] ({{lang|zh|東}})
* 11:00 - 13:00: horse
* [[Spring (season)|Springtime]] ({{lang|zh|春}})
* 13:00 - 15:00: ram
* [[Azure Dragon]] ({{lang|zh|青龍}})
* 15:00 - 17:00: monkey
* The Planet [[Jupiter]] ({{lang|zh|木星}})
* 17:00 - 19:00: rooster
* The Color [[Green]] ({{lang|zh|緑}})
* 19:00 - 21:00: dog
* [[Liver (Chinese medicine)|Liver]] ({{lang|zh|肝}}) and [[Gall bladder (Chinese medicine)|Gall bladder]] ({{lang|zh|胆}})
* 21:00 - 23:00: pig


===Fire ({{lang|zh|火}})===
==Origin stories==
<!--
The 12 Zodiac animal signs (生肖 ''shengxiao'') are, in order, the [[rat (zodiac)|rat]], [[ox (zodiac)|ox]], [[tiger (zodiac)|tiger]], [[rabbit (zodiac)|rabbit]], [[dragon (zodiac)|dragon]], [[snake (zodiac)|snake]], [[horse (zodiac)|horse]], [[ram (zodiac)|ram]] (or goat), [[monkey (zodiac)|monkey]], [[rooster (zodiac)|rooster]], [[dog (zodiac)|dog]], and [[pig (zodiac)|pig]]. There are many legends to explain the beginning of the zodiac (see [[Origins of the Chinese Zodiac]]). One of the most popular reads, in summarized form, as follows:
HIDDEN EDITOR NOTE:
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* The [[South]] ({{lang|zh|南}}})
* [[Summer]] ({{lang|zh|夏}})
* [[Vermilion Bird]]/Vermilion Phoenix ({{lang|zh|朱雀}}})
* The Planet [[Mars]] ({{lang|zh|火星}})
* The Color [[Red]] ({{lang|zh|赤}})
* [[Circulatory system]], [[Heart (Chinese medicine)|Heart]] ({{lang|zh|心}}) and [[Small intestine]] ({{lang|zh|小肠}})


===Earth ({{lang|zh|土}})===
:''The rat was given the task of inviting the animals to report to the [[Jade Emperor]] for a banquet to be selected for the zodiac signs. The cat was a good friend of the rat, but the rat tricked him into believing that the banquet was the next day. The cat slept through the banquet, thinking that it was the next day. When he found out, the cat vowed to be the rat's natural enemy for ages to come.''
<!--
HIDDEN EDITOR NOTE:
DO NOT ADD ANY INFORMATION WITHOUT CITING A RELIABLE SOURCE
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* Center ({{lang|zh|中}})
* Change of seasons (the last month of the season)
* The [[Yellow Dragon]] ({{lang|zh|黄龙}})
* The Planet [[Saturn]] ({{lang|zh|土星}})
* The Color [[Yellow]] ({{lang|zh|黄}})
* [[Digestive system]], [[Spleen (Chinese medicine)|Spleen]] ({{lang|zh|脾}}) and [[Stomach (Chinese medicine)|Stomach]] ({{lang|zh|胃}})


===Metal ({{lang|zh|金}})===
A variation of this describes the Jade Emperor holding a great banquet in his palace; the cat does not hear the initial announcement so the rat tells him that there is going to be a royal party but instead tells him it is on the day after the actual date. All the animals who arrived on the night were granted a special place as a zodiac animal - the cat arrived the next day only to find out that the banquet was over.
<!--
u
HIDDEN EDITOR NOTE:
Another popular legend has it that a race was used to decide the animals to report to the [[Jade Emperor]]: (taken from http://www.thingsasian.com/goto_article/article.2137.html)
DO NOT ADD ANY INFORMATION WITHOUT CITING A RELIABLE SOURCE
UNSOURCED ADDITIONS WILL BE REMOVED
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* The [[West]] ({{lang|zh|西}})
* [[Autumn]] ({{lang|zh|秋}})
* [[White Tiger (mythology)|White Tiger]] ({{lang|zh|白虎}})
* The Planet [[Venus]] ({{lang|zh|金星}})
* The Color [[White]] ({{lang|zh|白}})
* [[Respiratory system]], [[Lung (Chinese medicine)|Lung]] ({{lang|zh|肺}}) and [[Large intestine]] ({{lang|zh|大肠}})


===Water ({{lang|zh|水}})===
While we are all aware of the hatred between a cat and a rat, these two animals were actually very good friends once. Good friends they may be, but these two animals are the worst swimmers in the animal kingdom. Although bad swimmers, they were both intelligent. They decided that the best and fastest way to cross the river is to hop on the back of the ox. The ox, being a naïve and good-natured animal, agreed to carry them across. However, when there is a carrot dangling in front, it is sometimes difficult to stick to friendship and the crafty rat decides that in order to win, it must do something and promptly pushed the cat into the river. Because of this, the cat had never forgiven the rat, and no doubt, hated the water too. After the ox had crossed the river, the rat jumped ahead and reached the shore first, and it cleverly claimed first place in the race!
<!--
HIDDEN EDITOR NOTE:
DO NOT ADD ANY INFORMATION WITHOUT CITING A RELIABLE SOURCE
UNSOURCED ADDITIONS WILL BE REMOVED
-->
* The [[North]] ({{lang|zh|北}})
* [[Winter]] ({{lang|zh|冬}})
* [[Black Tortoise]] ({{lang|zh|玄武}})
* The Planet [[Mercury (planet)|Mercury]] ({{lang|zh|水星}})
* The Color [[Black]]/[[Blue]] ({{lang|zh|黑}})
* [[Skeleton]] ({{lang|zh|骨}}), [[Urinary bladder]] and [[Kidney (Chinese medicine)|Kidney]] ({{lang|zh|肾}})


===''Wuxing'' generating cycle ({{lang|zh|生}} sheng)===
Following closely behind was the strong ox, and it was named the 2nd animal in the zodiac. After the ox, came the tiger, panting away while explaining to the emperor just how difficult it was to cross the river with the heavy currents pushing it downstream all the time. But with powerful strength, it made to shore and was named the 3rd animal in the cycle.
(Inter-promoting, begetting, engendering, mothering or enhancing cycle)
Generating: Wood fuels Fire to burn; Fire creates Earth (ash); Earth producers minerals, Metal; Metal creates Water from condensation; Water nourishes Wood to grow.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.yourchineseastrology.com/five-elements.htm |title = Five Elements(Wu Xing) |publisher = YourChineseAstrology.com}}</ref>{{better source needed|date=March 2024}}


===''Wuxing'' regulating cycle ({{lang|zh|克}} kè)===
Suddenly, from a distance came a thumping sound and out pop the rabbit. It explained how it curossed the river: by jumping from one stone to another in a nimble fashion. Halfway through, it almost lost the race but the rabbit was lucky enough to grab hold of a floating log that later washed him to shore. For that, it became the 4th animal in the zodiac cycle. Coming in 5th place was the gallant dragon, flying and belching fire into the air. Of course the Emperor was deeply curious as to why a strong and flying creature such as the dragon should fail to reach first. The mighty dragon explained that he had to stop and make rain to help all the people and creatures of the earth, therefore he was held back a little. Then on his way to the finish line, he saw a little helpless rabbit clinging on to a log so he did a good deed and gave a puff of breath to the poor creature so that it could land on the shore. The emperor was very pleased with the actions of the dragon and he was added into the zodiac cycle. As soon as he had done so, a galloping sound was heard and the horse appeared. Hidden on the horse's hoof is the slimy sneaky snake whose sudden appearance gave the horse a fright thus making it fall back and gave the snake 6th spot whilst the horse took the 7th.
The regulating cycle is important to create restraints in the whole system. For example, if Fire was allowed to burn out of control, it would be devastating and destructive as we see in nature in the form of bush fires or internally as high fevers, (Destructing, overcoming or inter-restraining or weakening cycle)
Fire makes Metal flexible; Metal adds the minerals to Wood for there to be strong upward growth; Wood draws water from the Earth to create stability for building; Earth gives Water direction, like the banks of a river; Water controls Fire by cooling its heat.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Franglen |first=Nora |title=Simple Guide to Five Element Acupuncture |publisher=Singing Dragon |year=2013 |isbn=978-1848191860 |edition=1st |pages=30–55}}</ref>


==See also==
Not long after that, a little distance away, the ram, monkey and rooster came to the shore. These three creatures helped each other to get to where they are. The rooster spotted a raft, and took the other two animals with it. Together, the ram and the monkey cleared the weeds, tugged and pulled and finally got the raft to the shore. Because of their combined efforts, the Emperor was very pleased and promptly named the ram as the 8th creature, the monkey as the 9th, and the rooster the 10th.
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}

* [[Chinese calendar correspondence table]]
The 11th animal is the dog. His explanation for being late although he was supposed to be the best swimmer amongst the rest was that he needed a good bath after a long spell, and the fresh water from the river was too big a temptation. For that, he almost didn't make it to finish line. Just as the emperor was about to call it a day, an oink and squeal was heard from a little pig. The term "lazy pig" is due here as the pig got hungry during the race, promptly stopped for a feast then fell asleep. After the nap, the pig continued the race and was named the 12th and last animal of the zodiac cycle. The cat finished too late (thirteenth) to win any place in the calendar, and vowed to be the enemy of the rat forevermore.
* [[Chinese spiritual world concepts]]

* [[Chinese fortune telling]]
Some versions of the tale say that the [[cattle]] nominated a [[water buffalo]] to represent them because he was more proficient at water. The trade was acceptable because both animals are members of the family of [[Bovidae|bovines]].
* [[Chinese zodiac]]

* [[Da Liu Ren]]
Another version of the tale expands the race. The route ran through a forest, over ranges of plains and grasslands, and along a stream, before finally crossing a lake to the destination town.
* [[Dunhuang Star Chart]]

* [[Feng shui]]
Yet another variation tells of two different races. The first involved all the animals, in two divisions to avoid the fast animals dominating the top, and the top six in each division would "make the cut" for a second round, which would then determine the ''order of placement'' of the animals in the zodiac.
* [[Four Pillars of Destiny]]

* [[Qimen Dunjia]]
In yet another variation, each animal was called before its peers and had to explain why it deserved a position at the top of the Zodiac. The Boar, at a loss, proceeded to claim that the meat on its bones 'tasted good.' This explanation was apparently considered unsatisfactory, because the Boar was placed at the very end of the Zodiac.
* [[Symbolic stars]]

* [[Synoptical astrology]]
Interestingly, the cat does make it into the Vietnamese Zodiac, in place of the rabbit (see below).
* [[Tai Sui]]

* [[Tai Yi Shen Shu]]
==The lunisolar calendar==
* [[Traditional Chinese star names]]
Since the (traditional) Chinese zodiac follows the ([[lunisolar]]) [[Chinese calendar]], the switch over date for the zodiac signs is the [[Chinese New Year]], not [[January 1]] as in the [[Gregorian calendar]]. Therefore, a person who was born in January or early February may have the sign of the previous year. For example, 1990 was the year of the horse, but anyone born from January 1 to January 26, 1990 was born in the Year of the Snake (the sign of the previous year), because the 1990 Year of the Horse began on January 27, 1990. The start of a new Zodiac is also celebrated on [[Chinese New Year]] along with many other customs.
{{div col end}}

Many online sign calculators will give a person the wrong sign if he/she was born in January or early February.<ref> (such as http://javascript.internet.com/math-related/astrological-calculator.html</ref>

There are some newer astrological texts which follow the Chinese Agricultural Calendar (the ''jie qi''), and thus place the changeover of zodiac signs at the solar term ''li chun'' (beginning of Spring), at [[solar longitude]] 315 degrees. (See [[Chinese calendar]])

==Table of the lunar calendar and zodiac==
<table class="wikitable">
<caption>Chinese Zodiac for the past and present century (Note: first & second columns: 1900-1960. Third & fourth columns: 1960-2020.)</caption>

<caption>(The start of a Chinese zodiac sign is usually defined as the [[lichun|lìchūn]] of a year, not the first day of a Chinese new year as shown.)</caption>
<tr>
<th colspan="2">1900-1960</th>
<th colspan="2">1960-2020</th>
<th rowspan="2">Element</th>
<th rowspan="2">Sign</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>Begin</th>
<th>End</th>
<th>Begin</th>
<th>End</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1900 Jan 31 </td>
<td> 1901 Feb 18 </td>
<td>1960 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 1961 Feb 14 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 鼠 [[rat (zodiac)|Rat]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1901 Feb 19 </td>
<td> 1902 Feb 07 </td>
<td>1961 Feb 15 </td>
<td> 1962 Feb 04 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 牛 [[ox (zodiac)|Ox]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1902 Feb 08 </td>
<td> 1903 Jan 28 </td>
<td>1962 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 1963 Jan 24 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 虎 [[tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1903 Jan 29 </td>
<td> 1904 Feb 15 </td>
<td>1963 Jan 25 </td>
<td> 1964 Feb 12 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 兔 [[rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1904 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 1905 Feb 03 </td>
<td>1964 Feb 13 </td>
<td> 1965 Feb 01 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 龍 [[dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1905 Feb 04 </td>
<td> 1906 Jan 24 </td>
<td>1965 Feb 02 </td>
<td> 1966 Jan 20 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 蛇 [[snake (zodiac)|Snake ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1906 Jan 25 </td>
<td> 1907 Feb 12 </td>
<td>1966 Jan 21 </td>
<td> 1967 Feb 08 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 馬 [[horse (zodiac)|Horse ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1907 Feb 13 </td>
<td> 1908 Feb 01 </td>
<td>1967 Feb 09 </td>
<td> 1968 Jan 29 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 羊 [[ram (zodiac)|Ram]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1908 Feb 02 </td>
<td> 1909 Jan 21 </td>
<td>1968 Jan 30 </td>
<td> 1969 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 猴 [[monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1909 Jan 22 </td>
<td> 1910 Feb 09 </td>
<td>1969 Feb 17 </td>
<td> 1970 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 雞 [[rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1910 Feb 10 </td>
<td> 1911 Jan 29 </td>
<td>1970 Feb 06 </td>
<td> 1971 Jan 26 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 狗 [[dog (zodiac)|Dog]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1911 Jan 30 </td>
<td> 1912 Feb 17 </td>
<td>1971 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 1972 Feb 14 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 豬 [[pig (zodiac)|Pig]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1912 Feb 18 </td>
<td> 1913 Feb 05 </td>
<td>1972 Feb 15 </td>
<td> 1973 Feb 02 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 鼠 [[rat (zodiac)|Rat]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1913 Feb 06 </td>
<td> 1914 Jan 25 </td>
<td>1973 Feb 03 </td>
<td> 1974 Jan 22 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 牛 [[ox (zodiac)|Ox]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1914 Jan 26 </td>
<td> 1915 Feb 13 </td>
<td>1974 Jan 23 </td>
<td> 1975 Feb 10 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 虎 [[tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1915 Feb 14 </td>
<td> 1916 Feb 02 </td>
<td>1975 Feb 11 </td>
<td> 1976 Jan 30 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 兔 [[rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1916 Feb 03 </td>
<td> 1917 Jan 22 </td>
<td>1976 Jan 31 </td>
<td> 1977 Feb 17 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 龍 [[dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1917 Jan 23 </td>
<td> 1918 Feb 10 </td>
<td>1977 Feb 18 </td>
<td> 1978 Feb 06 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 蛇 [[snake (zodiac)|Snake ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1918 Feb 11 </td>
<td> 1919 Jan 31 </td>
<td>1978 Feb 07 </td>
<td> 1979 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 馬 [[horse (zodiac)|Horse ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1919 Feb 01 </td>
<td> 1920 Feb 19 </td>
<td>1979 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 1980 Feb 15 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 羊 [[ram (zodiac)|Ram]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1920 Feb 20 </td>
<td> 1921 Feb 07 </td>
<td>1980 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 1981 Feb 04 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 猴 [[monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1921 Feb 08 </td>
<td> 1922 Jan 27 </td>
<td>1981 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 1982 Jan 24 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 雞 [[rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1922 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 1923 Feb 15 </td>
<td>1982 Jan 25 </td>
<td> 1983 Feb 12 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 狗 [[dog (zodiac)|Dog]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1923 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 1924 Feb 04 </td>
<td>1983 Feb 13 </td>
<td> 1984 Feb 01 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 豬 [[pig (zodiac)|Pig]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1924 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 1925 Jan 24 </td>
<td>1984 Feb 02 </td>
<td> 1985 Feb 19 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 鼠 [[rat (zodiac)|Rat]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1925 Jan 25 </td>
<td> 1926 Feb 12 </td>
<td>1985 Feb 20 </td>
<td> 1986 Feb 08 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 牛 [[ox (zodiac)|Ox]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1926 Feb 13 </td>
<td> 1927 Feb 01 </td>
<td>1986 Feb 09 </td>
<td> 1987 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 虎 [[tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1927 Feb 02 </td>
<td> 1928 Jan 22 </td>
<td>1987 Jan 29 </td>
<td> 1988 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 兔 [[rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1928 Jan 23 </td>
<td> 1929 Feb 09 </td>
<td>1988 Feb 17 </td>
<td> 1989 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 龍 [[dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1929 Feb 10 </td>
<td> 1930 Jan 29 </td>
<td>1989 Feb 06 </td>
<td> 1990 Jan 26 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 蛇 [[snake (zodiac)|Snake ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1930 Jan 30 </td>
<td> 1931 Feb 16 </td>
<td>1990 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 1991 Feb 14 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 馬 [[horse (zodiac)|Horse ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1931 Feb 17 </td>
<td> 1932 Feb 05 </td>
<td>1991 Feb 15 </td>
<td> 1992 Feb 03 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 羊 [[ram (zodiac)|Ram]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1932 Feb 06 </td>
<td> 1933 Jan 25 </td>
<td>1992 Feb 04 </td>
<td> 1993 Jan 22 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 猴 [[monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1933 Jan 26 </td>
<td> 1934 Feb 13 </td>
<td>1993 Jan 23 </td>
<td> 1994 Feb 09 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 雞 [[rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1934 Feb 14 </td>
<td> 1935 Feb 03 </td>
<td>1994 Feb 10 </td>
<td> 1995 Jan 30 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 狗 [[dog (zodiac)|Dog]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1935 Feb 04 </td>
<td> 1936 Jan 23 </td>
<td>1995 Jan 31 </td>
<td> 1996 Feb 18 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 豬 [[pig (zodiac)|Pig]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1936 Jan 24 </td>
<td> 1937 Feb 10 </td>
<td>1996 Feb 19 </td>
<td> 1997 Feb 06 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 鼠 [[rat (zodiac)|Rat]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1937 Feb 11 </td>
<td> 1938 Jan 30 </td>
<td>1997 Feb 07 </td>
<td> 1998 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 牛 [[ox (zodiac)|Ox]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1938 Jan 31 </td>
<td> 1939 Feb 18 </td>
<td>1998 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 1999 Feb 15 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 虎 [[tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1939 Feb 19 </td>
<td> 1940 Feb 07 </td>
<td>1999 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 2000 Feb 04 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 兔 [[rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1940 Feb 08 </td>
<td> 1941 Jan 26 </td>
<td>2000 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 2001 Jan 23 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 龍 [[dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1941 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 1942 Feb 14 </td>
<td>2001 Jan 24 </td>
<td> 2002 Feb 11 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 蛇 [[snake (zodiac)|Snake ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1942 Feb 15 </td>
<td> 1943 Feb 04 </td>
<td>2002 Feb 12 </td>
<td> 2003 Jan 31 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 馬 [[horse (zodiac)|Horse ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1943 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 1944 Jan 24 </td>
<td>2003 Feb 01 </td>
<td> 2004 Jan 21 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 羊 [[ram (zodiac)|Ram]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1944 Jan 25 </td>
<td> 1945 Feb 12 </td>
<td>2004 Jan 22 </td>
<td> 2005 Feb 8 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 猴 [[monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1945 Feb 13 </td>
<td> 1946 Feb 01 </td>
<td> 2005 Feb 9 </td>
<td> 2006 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 雞 [[rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1946 Feb 02 </td>
<td> 1947 Jan 21 </td>
<td> 2006 Jan 29 </td>
<td> 2007 Feb 17 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 狗 [[dog (zodiac)|Dog]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1947 Jan 22 </td>
<td> 1948 Feb 09 </td>
<td> 2007 Feb 18 </td>
<td> 2008 Feb 6 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 豬 [[pig (zodiac)|Pig]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1948 Feb 10 </td>
<td> 1949 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 2008 Feb 7 </td>
<td> 2009 Jan 25 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 鼠 [[rat (zodiac)|Rat]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1949 Jan 29 </td>
<td> 1950 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 2009 Jan 26 </td>
<td> 2010 Feb 23 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 牛 [[ox (zodiac)|Ox]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1950 Feb 17 </td>
<td> 1951 Feb 05 </td>
<td> 2010 Feb 24 </td>
<td> 2011 Feb 2 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 虎 [[tiger (zodiac)|Tiger]]</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1951 Feb 06 </td>
<td> 1952 Jan 26 </td>
<td> 2011 Feb 3 </td>
<td> 2012 Jan 22 </td>
<td> 金 Metal </td>
<td> 兔 [[rabbit (zodiac)|Rabbit]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1952 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 1953 Feb 13 </td>
<td> 2012 Jan 23 </td>
<td> 2013 Feb 9 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 龍 [[dragon (zodiac)|Dragon]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1953 Feb 14 </td>
<td> 1954 Feb 02 </td>
<td> 2013 Feb 10 </td>
<td> 2014 Jan 30 </td>
<td> 水 Water </td>
<td> 蛇 [[snake (zodiac)|Snake ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1954 Feb 03 </td>
<td> 1955 Jan 23 </td>
<td> 2014 Jan 31 </td>
<td> 2015 Feb 18 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 馬 [[horse (zodiac)|Horse ]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1955 Jan 24 </td>
<td> 1956 Feb 11 </td>
<td> 2015 Feb 19 </td>
<td> 2016 Feb 7 </td>
<td> 木 Wood </td>
<td> 羊 [[ram (zodiac)|Ram]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1956 Feb 12 </td>
<td> 1957 Jan 30 </td>
<td> 2016 Feb 8 </td>
<td> 2017 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 猴 [[monkey (zodiac)|Monkey]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1957 Jan 31 </td>
<td> 1958 Feb 17 </td>
<td> 2017 Jan 28 </td>
<td> 2018 Feb 15 </td>
<td> 火 Fire </td>
<td> 雞 [[rooster (zodiac)|Rooster]]</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1958 Feb 18 </td>
<td> 1959 Feb 07 </td>
<td> 2018 Feb 16 </td>
<td> 2019 Feb 4 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 狗 [[dog (zodiac)|Dog]] </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1959 Feb 08 </td>
<td> 1960 Jan 27 </td>
<td> 2019 Feb 5 </td>
<td> 2020 Jan 24 </td>
<td> 土 Earth </td>
<td> 豬 [[pig (zodiac)|Pig]] </td>
</tr>
</table>

==Chinese zodiac in other countries==
The Chinese zodiac signs are also used by cultures other than Chinese. For one example, they usually appear on [[Japanese New Year]]'s cards and stamps. The [[United States Postal Service]] and those of several other countries issue a "Year of the _____" postage stamp each year to honor this Chinese heritage. However, those unfamiliar with the use of the Chinese lunar calendar usually just assume that the signs switch over on Jan 1 of each year. Those who are serious about the fortune telling aspect of the signs can consult a table, such as the one above.

The Chinese zodiac is also used in some other Asian countries that have been under the cultural influence of China. However, some of the animals in the Zodiac may differ by country.

For example, the '''Vietnamese zodiac''' is identical to Chinese zodiac except the fourth animal is the ''[[cat]]'' not the ''rabbit'', while the '''Japanese zodiac''' includes the ''[[wild boar]]'' instead of the ''pig''.
The [[European]] [[Hun]]s used the Chinese Zodiac complete with "dragon", "pig". This common Chinese-Turkic Zodiac was in use in Balkan [[Bulgaria]] well into the [[Bulgar]]s' adoption of [[Slavic language]] and [[Orthodox Christianity]].
Following is the [[Hunnish]] or Turkic Bulgarian Pagan zodiac calendar, distinctive from the Greek zodiac but much in conformity with the Chinese one:
Kam-Boyan Calendar.
===Torè calendar===
Names of years
# Kuzgé - [Year of] Saravana
# Shiger (Syger) - Artom (Taurus)
# Kuman (Imén)
# Ügur - Tiger Myachè Ügur - Tiger
# Taushan - Rabbit
# Samar - Dragon Birgün (Bergen, Birig, Baradj)- Dragon
# Dilan - Snake
# Tuki (Tykha) - Horse
# Téké - Ram (Sheep or Goat)
# Bichin, Michin - Monkey
# Taguk - Rooster, Hen
# It - Dog
# Shushma - Boar (Türk, Russ "Kaban" - Translator's Note)

The '''Thai Zodiac''' does not differ from the Chinese zodiac except for one minor exception. It uses a Naga instead of a dragon.

== The Four Trines ==

'''The First Trine'''
The first trine consists of the Rat, Dragon, and Monkey. These three signs are intense and powerful individuals, capable of great good or great evil (historically, Japan ruled by the dragon and Germany ruled by the Rat were causes of WWII and major atrocities, including the holocaust). They make great leaders, but the three have different approaches. Rats and Dragons have a tendency to be quite dictatorial and autocratic, whilst monkeys are more diplomatic. Frustrated when hampered, these signs are ruled by highly potent energy and unpredictability. They are intelligent, magnanimous, charismatic, charming, authoritative, confident, eloquent and artistic. They can also be tyrannical, bombastic, prejudiced, deceitful, imperious, ruthless, power-hungry, and megalomaniacal.

'''The Second Trine'''
The second trine consists of the Ox, Snake, and Rooster. These 3 soul mates conquer life through endurance, application, and slow accumulation of energy. Although, each sign is fixed and rigid in opinions and views, they are genius in the art of meticulous planning. They are hardworking, discreet, modest, industrious, charitable, loyal, punctual, philosophical, patient, and good-hearted individuals with high moral standards. They can also be self-righteous, greedy, critical, judgemental, narrow-minded, petty, and pessimistic.

'''The Third Trine'''
The third trine consists of the Tiger, Horse, and Dog. These three signs seek one another, and are like-minded in their pursuit of humanitarian causes. Each is a gifted orator and excels at verbal communication. Relationships and personal contact, are of highest priority and each one seek their intimate soul mate. Idealistic and impulsive, the Tiger, Horse and Dog follow the beat of their own drummer. Defiant against injustice, these three signs wilt without large amounts of physical affection and loyal support for causes. They are productive, enthusiastic, independent, engaging, dynamic, and honorable. They can also be rash, rebellious, quarrelsome, hot-headed, reckless, anxious, moody, disagreeable, stubborn, and vain.

'''The Fourth Trine'''
The fourth sign consists of the Rabbit, Goat, and Pig. The quest for these three signs, is the aesthetic and beautiful in life. They are artistic, refined, intuitive and well-mannered. These souls love the preliminaries in love, and are fine artists in their lovemaking. The Rabbit, Goat and Pig have been bestowed with calmer natures than the other 9 signs. These three are compassionately aware, yet detached and resigned to their condition. They seek beauty and a sensitive lover. They are caring, self-sacrificing, obliging, sensible, creative, empathetic, tactful, and prudent. They can also be naive, gullible, pedantic, lazy, insecure, cunning, indecisive, and pessimistic.


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
<references/>
Shelly Wu. (2005). "Chinese Astrology". Publisher: The Career Press, Inc. ISBN 1-56414-796-7


==External links==
==Further reading==
* {{cite book |first=Shelly |last=Wu |year=2005 |title=Chinese Astrology |publisher=The Career Press |isbn=1-56414-796-7 |ref=none}}
*[http://www.paranormality.com/chinese_star_signs.shtml All About Chinese Star Signs and Their Traits]
*[http://www.chinesezodiac.ca/ ChineseZodiac.ca - What type of Animal are you?]
*[http://www.smilingbamboo.com/zodiac/index.php Lunar Based Chinese Zodiac Calculator]
*[http://www.chineseastrologyonline.com/ Chinese astrology online]
*[http://www.horoscope.co.uk/chinese_index.htm Chinese Horoscopes by Nathaniel]
*[http://www.chinese-tools.com/astrology/horoscope Chinese Horoscopes by Madam Yang]
*[http://students.ou.edu/L/Brian.G.Lewis-1/Episode%20II-Chinese%20Astrology.html Chinese astrology History]
*[http://eng.mouseland.ru/inhabitians.html Are you a Rat/Mouse?]
*[http://www.destinyandluck.com/index.php Get your animal sign and Zi Wei Dou Shu Chart]
*[http://www.absolutelyfengshui.com/astrology/zi-wei-dou-shu.php Zi Wei Dou Shu]
*[http://www.faqsimple.com/fs/DisplayFaqServlet/CalendarChineseAstrologyYears.html Chinese Astrology Faq]


{{Chinese mythology}}
{{Cmyth}}
{{Chinese zodiac}}
{{Astrology-footer}}
{{Authority control}}


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[[ar:أبراج صينية]]
[[bn:চৈনিক জ্যোতিষশাস্ত্র]]
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[[de:Chinesisches Horoskop]]
[[fr:Astrologie chinoise]]
[[id:Shio]]
[[it:Astrologia cinese]]
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Latest revision as of 01:27, 7 April 2024

Astrology
Background
Traditions
Branches
Astrological signs
Symbols

Chinese astrology is based on traditional Chinese astronomy and the Chinese calendar. Chinese astrology flourished during the Han dynasty (2nd century BC to 2nd century AD).[1]

Chinese astrology has a close relation with Chinese philosophy (theory of the three harmonies: heaven, earth, and human), and uses the principles of yin and yang, wuxing (five phases), the ten Heavenly Stems, the twelve Earthly Branches, the lunisolar calendar (moon calendar and sun calendar), and the time calculation after year, month, day, and shichen (時辰, double hour). These concepts are not readily found or familiar in Western astrology or culture.

History and background[edit]

Chinese astrology was elaborated during the Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BC) and flourished during the Han dynasty (2nd century BC to 2nd century AD). During the Han period, the familiar elements of traditional Chinese culture—the yin-yang philosophy, the theory and technology of the five elements (Wuxing), the concepts of heaven and earth, and Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian morality—were brought together to formalize the philosophical principles of Chinese medicine and divination, astrology and alchemy.[2]

The five classical planets are associated with the wuxing:

According to Chinese astrology, a person's fate[3] can be determined by the position of the major planets at the person's birth along with the positions of the Sun, Moon, comets, the person's time of birth, and zodiac sign. The system of the twelve-year cycle of animal signs was built from observations of the orbit of Jupiter (the Year Star; simplified Chinese: 岁星; traditional Chinese: 歳星; pinyin: Suìxīng). Following the orbit of Jupiter around the Sun, Chinese astronomers divided the celestial circle into 12 sections, and rounded it to 12 years (from 11.86). Jupiter is associated with the constellation Sheti (摄提; 攝提- Boötes) and is sometimes called Sheti.

A system of computing one's predestined fate is based on birthday, birth season, and birth hour, known as zi wei dou shu (紫微斗数; 紫微斗數; zǐwēidǒushù), or Purple Star Astrology, is still used regularly in modern-day Chinese astrology to divine one's fortune. The 28 Chinese constellations, Xiu (宿; xiù), are quite different from Western constellations. For example, the Big Bear (Ursa Major) is known as Dou (斗; dǒu); the belt of Orion is known as Shen (参; 參; shēn), or the "Happiness, Fortune, Longevity" trio of demigods. The seven northern constellations are referred to as Xuan Wu (玄武; xuánwǔ). Xuan Wu is also known as the spirit of the northern sky or the spirit of water in Taoist belief.

In addition to astrological readings of the heavenly bodies, the stars in the sky form the basis of many fairy tales. For example, the Summer Triangle is the trio of the cowherd (Altair), the weaving maiden fairy (Vega), and the "tai bai" fairy (Deneb). The two forbidden lovers were separated by the silvery river (the Milky Way). Each year on the seventh day of the seventh month in the Chinese calendar, the birds form a bridge across the Milky Way. The cowherd carries their two sons (the two stars on each side of Altair) across the bridge to reunite with their fairy mother. The tai bai fairy acts as the chaperone of these two immortal lovers.

Chinese zodiac[edit]

Further information on this topic: Chinese zodiac

Chinese astrology has a close relation with Chinese philosophy. The core values and concepts of Chinese philosophy originate from Taoism.[4]

Table of the sixty-year calendar[edit]

Main articles: Chinese calendar and Sexagenary cycle

The following table shows the 60-year cycle matched up to the Western calendar for the years 1924–2043 (see sexagenary cycle article for years 1924–1983). This is only applied to Chinese Lunar calendar. The sexagenary cycle begins at lichun.[5] Each of the Chinese lunar years are associated with a combination of the ten Heavenly Stems (Chinese: 天干; pinyin: tiāngān) and the twelve Earthly Branches (Chinese: 地支; pinyin: dìzhī) which make up the 60 Stem-Branches (Chinese: 干支; pinyin: gānzhī) in a sexagenary cycle.

  Year Associated
Element		 Heavenly
Stem		 Earthly
Branch 		Stem-Branch

(干支) in Pinyin

Associated
Animal		 Year
1924–1983 1984–2043
1 Feb 05 1924–Jan 23 1925 Yang Wood 甲 子 jiǎ-zǐ Rat Feb 02 1984–Feb 19 1985
2 Jan 24 1925–Feb 12 1926 Yin Wood 乙 丑 yǐ-chǒu Ox Feb 20 1985–Feb 08 1986
3 Feb 13 1926–Feb 01 1927 Yang Fire 丙 寅 bǐng-yín Tiger Feb 09 1986–Jan 28 1987
4 Feb 02 1927–Jan 22 1928 Yin Fire 丁 卯 dīng-mǎo Rabbit Jan 29 1987–Feb 16 1988
5 Jan 23 1928–Feb 09 1929 Yang Earth 戊 辰 wù-chén Dragon Feb 17 1988–Feb 05 1989
6 Feb 10 1929–Jan 29 1930 Yin Earth 己 巳 jǐ-sì Snake Feb 06 1989–Jan 26 1990
7 Jan 30 1930–Feb 16 1931 Yang Metal 庚 午 gēng-wǔ Horse Jan 27 1990–Feb 14 1991
8 Feb 17 1931–Feb 05 1932 Yin Metal 辛 未 xīn-wèi Goat Feb 15 1991–Feb 03 1992
9 Feb 06 1932–Jan 25 1933 Yang Water 壬 申 rén-shēn Monkey Feb 04 1992–Jan 22 1993
10 Jan 26 1933–Feb 13 1934 Yin Water 癸 酉 guǐ-yǒu Rooster Jan 23 1993– Feb 09 1994
11 Feb 14 1934–Feb 03 1935 Yang Wood 甲 戌 jiǎ-xū Dog Feb 10 1994–Jan 30 1995
12 Feb 04 1935–Jan 23 1936 Yin Wood 乙 亥 yǐ-hài Pig Jan 31 1995–Feb 18 1996
13 Jan 24 1936–Feb 10 1937 Yang Fire 丙 子 bǐng-zǐ Rat Feb 19 1996–Feb 06 1997
14 Feb 11 1937–Jan 30 1938 Yin Fire 丁 丑 dīng-chǒu Ox Feb 07 1997–Jan 27 1998
15 Jan 31 1938–Feb 18 1939 Yang Earth 戊 寅 wù-yín Tiger Jan 28 1998–Feb 15 1999
16 Feb 19 1939–Feb 07 1940 Yin Earth 己 卯 jǐ-mǎo Rabbit Feb 16 1999–Feb 04 2000
17 Feb 08 1940–Jan 26 1941 Yang Metal 庚 辰 gēng-chén Dragon Feb 05 2000–Jan 23 2001
18 Jan 27 1941–Feb 14 1942 Yin Metal 辛 巳 xīn-sì Snake Jan 24 2001–Feb 11 2002
19 Feb 15 1942–Feb 04 1943 Yang Water 壬 午 rén-wǔ Horse Feb 12 2002–Jan 31 2003
20 Feb 05 1943–Jan 24 1944 Yin Water 癸 未 guǐ-wèi Goat Feb 01 2003–Jan 21 2004
21 Jan 25 1944–Feb 12 1945 Yang Wood 甲 申 jiǎ-shēn Monkey Jan 22 2004–Feb 08 2005
22 Feb 13 1945–Feb 01 1946 Yin Wood 乙 酉 yǐ-yǒu Rooster Feb 09 2005–Jan 28 2006
23 Feb 02 1946–Jan 21 1947 Yang Fire 丙 戌 bǐng-xū Dog Jan 29 2006–Feb 17 2007
24 Jan 22 1947–Feb 09 1948 Yin Fire 丁 亥 dīng-hài Pig Feb 18 2007–Feb 06 2008
25 Feb 10 1948–Jan 28 1949 Yang Earth 戊 子 wù-zǐ Rat Feb 07 2008–Jan 25 2009
26 Jan 29 1949–Feb 16 1950 Yin Earth 己 丑 jǐ-chǒu Ox Jan 26 2009–Feb 13 2010
27 Feb 17 1950–Feb 05 1951 Yang Metal 庚 寅 gēng-yín Tiger Feb 14 2010–Feb 02 2011
28 Feb 06 1951–Jan 26 1952 Yin Metal 辛 卯 xīn-mǎo Rabbit Feb 03 2011–Jan 22 2012
29 Jan 27 1952–Feb 13 1953 Yang Water 壬 辰 rén-chén Dragon Jan 23 2012–Feb 09 2013
30 Feb 14 1953–Feb 02 1954 Yin Water 癸 巳 guǐ-sì Snake Feb 10 2013–Jan 30 2014
31 Feb 03 1954–Jan 23 1955 Yang Wood 甲 午 jiǎ-wǔ Horse Jan 31 2014–Feb 18 2015
32 Jan 24 1955–Feb 11 1956 Yin Wood 乙 未 yǐ-wèi Goat Feb 19 2015–Feb 07 2016
33 Feb 12 1956–Jan 30 1957 Yang Fire 丙 申 bǐng-shēn Monkey Feb 08 2016–Jan 27 2017
34 Jan 31 1957–Feb 17 1958 Yin Fire 丁 酉 dīng-yǒu Rooster Jan 28 2017–Feb 15 2018
35 Feb 18 1958–Feb 07 1959 Yang Earth 戊 戌 wù-xū Dog Feb 16 2018–Feb 04 2019
36 Feb 08 1959–Jan 27 1960 Yin Earth 己 亥 jǐ-hài Pig Feb 05 2019–Jan 24 2020
37 Jan 28 1960–Feb 14 1961 Yang Metal 庚 子 gēng-zǐ Rat Jan 25 2020–Feb. 11 2021
38 Feb 15 1961–Feb 04 1962 Yin Metal 辛 丑 xīn-chǒu Ox Feb 12 2021–Jan 31 2022
39 Feb 05 1962–Jan 24 1963 Yang Water 壬 寅 rén-yín Tiger Feb 01 2022–Jan 21 2023
40 Jan 25 1963–Feb 12 1964 Yin Water 癸 卯 guǐ-mǎo Rabbit Jan 22 2023–Feb 09 2024
41 Feb 13 1964–Feb 01 1965 Yang Wood 甲 辰 jiǎ-chén Dragon Feb 10 2024–Jan 28 2025
42 Feb 02 1965–Jan 20 1966 Yin Wood 乙 巳 yǐ-sì Snake Jan 29 2025–Feb 16 2026
43 Jan 21 1966–Feb 08 1967 Yang Fire 丙 午 bǐng-wǔ Horse Feb 17 2026–Feb 05 2027
44 Feb 09 1967–Jan 29 1968 Yin Fire 丁 未 dīng-wèi Goat Feb 06 2027–Jan 25 2028
45 Jan 30 1968–Feb 16 1969 Yang Earth 戊 申 wù-shēn Monkey Jan 26 2028–Feb 12 2029
46 Feb 17 1969–Feb 05 1970 Yin Earth 己 酉 jǐ-yǒu Rooster Feb 13 2029–Feb 02 2030
47 Feb 06 1970–Jan 26 1971 Yang Metal 庚 戌 gēng-xū Dog Feb 03 2030–Jan 22 2031
48 Jan 27 1971–Feb 14 1972 Yin Metal 辛 亥 xīn-hài Pig Jan 23 2031–Feb 10 2032
49 Feb 15 1972–Feb 02 1973 Yang Water 壬 子 rén-zǐ Rat Feb 11 2032–Jan 30 2033
50 Feb 03 1973–Jan 22 1974 Yin Water 癸 丑 guǐ-chǒu Ox Jan 31 2033–Feb 18 2034
51 Jan 23 1974–Feb 10 1975 Yang Wood 甲 寅 jiǎ-yín Tiger Feb 19 2034–Feb 07 2035
52 Feb 11 1975–Jan 30 1976 Yin Wood 乙 卯 yǐ-mǎo Rabbit Feb 08 2035–Jan 27 2036
53 Jan 31 1976–Feb 17 1977 Yang Fire 丙 辰 bǐng-chén Dragon Jan 28 2036–Feb 14 2037
54 Feb 18 1977–Feb 06 1978 Yin Fire 丁 巳 dīng-sì Snake Feb 15 2037–Feb 03 2038
55 Feb 07 1978–Jan 27 1979 Yang Earth 戊 午 wù-wǔ Horse Feb 04 2038–Jan 23 2039
56 Jan 28 1979–Feb 15 1980 Yin Earth 己 未 jǐ-wèi Goat Jan 24 2039–Feb 11 2040
57 Feb 16 1980–Feb 04 1981 Yang Metal 庚 申 gēng-shēn Monkey Feb 12 2040–Jan 31 2041
58 Feb 05 1981–Jan 24 1982 Yin Metal 辛 酉 xīn-yǒu Rooster Feb 01 2041–Jan 21 2042
59 Jan 25 1982–Feb 12 1983 Yang Water 壬 戌 rén-xū Dog Jan 22 2042–Feb 09 2043
60 Feb 13 1983–Feb 01 1984 Yin Water 癸 亥 guǐ-hài Pig Feb 10 2043–Jan 29 2044

Wuxing[edit]

Main article: Wuxing (Chinese philosophy)

Although it is usually translated as 'element', the Chinese word xing literally means something like 'changing states of being', 'permutations' or 'metamorphoses of being'.[6] In fact, Sinologists cannot agree on one single translation. The Chinese notion of 'element' is therefore quite different from the Western one. In the west, India Vedic, and Japanese Go dai elements were seen as the basic building blocks of matter and static or stationary. The Chinese 'elements', by contrast, were seen as ever changing, and the transliteration of xing is simply 'the five changes' and in traditional Chinese medicine are commonly referred to as phrases. Things seen as associated to each xing are listed below.

Wood (木)[edit]

Fire (火)[edit]

Earth (土)[edit]

Metal (金)[edit]

Water (水)[edit]

Wuxing generating cycle (生 sheng)[edit]

(Inter-promoting, begetting, engendering, mothering or enhancing cycle) Generating: Wood fuels Fire to burn; Fire creates Earth (ash); Earth producers minerals, Metal; Metal creates Water from condensation; Water nourishes Wood to grow.[7][better source needed]

Wuxing regulating cycle (克 kè)[edit]

The regulating cycle is important to create restraints in the whole system. For example, if Fire was allowed to burn out of control, it would be devastating and destructive as we see in nature in the form of bush fires or internally as high fevers, (Destructing, overcoming or inter-restraining or weakening cycle) Fire makes Metal flexible; Metal adds the minerals to Wood for there to be strong upward growth; Wood draws water from the Earth to create stability for building; Earth gives Water direction, like the banks of a river; Water controls Fire by cooling its heat.[8]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ 何, 丙郁 (2003). Chinese mathematical astrology : reaching out to the stars. Routledge. ISBN 0415297591.
  2. ^ Sun, Xiaochun; Kistemaker, Jacob (1997). The Chinese Sky during the Han: Constellating Stars and Society. Leiden: Brill. pp. 3–4. ISBN 978-90-04-10737-3.
  3. ^ Levitt, Ellen Dorn (2013). Fate A Chinese Zodiac (1st ed.). London: Center Press, John L. Norris Art Center, Lyndon Institute. pp. 1–130.
  4. ^ Sun & Kistemaker (1997), pp. 22, 85, 176
  5. ^ ""Almanac" "lunar" zodiac beginning of spring as the boundary dislocation? — China Network". 16 February 2009. Retrieved 5 January 2011.
  6. ^ Eberhard, Wolfram (1986). A Dictionary of Chinese Symbols. London: Routledge and Keegan Paul. pp. 93, 105, 309.
  7. ^ "Five Elements(Wu Xing)". YourChineseAstrology.com.
  8. ^ Franglen, Nora (2013). Simple Guide to Five Element Acupuncture (1st ed.). Singing Dragon. pp. 30–55. ISBN 978-1848191860.

Further reading[edit]

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