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GLOSSARY

The Chinese Zodiac system

Organization of the Chinese calendar into a 12-year cycle, each represented by an animal associated with specific personality traits. People born in the zodiac year of a specific animal are said to possess that animal's traits. This list provides a nuanced understanding of each zodiac animal, highlighting their symbolic meanings and associations within the Chinese zodiac system:

  1. Rat: Emblematic of adaptability and resourcefulness, the Rat represents the North in the Zodiac Compass. It symbolizes intelligence, charm, and prosperity, often associated with wealth and surplus.
  2. Ox: Known for its strength, reliability, and diligence, the Ox is sometimes seen as warding off evil spirits in water bodies like lakes, rivers, and seas. This sign epitomizes hard work, patience, and determination.
  3. Tiger: A symbol of bravery, competitive spirit, and military might, the Tiger is one of the four animals embodying Power and Energy. The White Tiger, representing the Western Quadrant of the Heavens, signifies courage and leadership.
  4. Hare or Rabbit: Associated with longevity, peace, and prosperity, the Hare or Rabbit symbolizes good fortune and fertility. It is a sign of grace, beauty, and sensitivity, connected with the East in the Zodiac Compass.
  5. Dragon: The Dragon stands for authority, honor, and luck, presiding over the Eastern Quadrant. It is a powerful emblem of royalty, creativity, and rain—ushering in spring and warning against greed.
  6. Snake: Symbolizing wisdom, intelligence, and healing, the Snake also represents transformation and life's mysteries. It conveys a mix of enigma, strategic acumen, and intuition.
  7. Horse: Signifying energy, passion, and freedom, the Horse occupies the South on the Zodiac Compass. It embodies movement, nomadic freedom, and the pursuit of improvement.
  8. Ram or Sheep: Stands for peace, artistic spirit, and compassion. The Ram or Sheep is a sign of gentleness, nurturing, and caring, representing sacrifice and filial piety.
  9. Donkey: Symbolizes humility, intelligence, and determination. The Donkey is celebrated for its endurance, perseverance, and ability to carry burdens, warding off negative spirits with its resilience.
  10. The Cock or Rooster: Embodies punctuality, fidelity, and vigilance. Courageous with a warlike disposition, the Rooster signifies the warmth and life of the Universe and is positioned in the West on the Zodiac Compass.
  11. Dog: A beacon of loyalty, honesty, and justice, the Dog symbolizes true friendship and reliability. It represents future prosperity through its protective and straightforward nature.
  12. Pig or Boar: The Boar symbolizes bravery, generosity, and abundance, while the Pig is associated with honesty, sincerity, and simplicity. Together, they represent the wealth of the forest and earth, contrasting with the humility of their disposition.

See also: Chinese Lunar Calendar

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