Zodiac, Chinese
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. The animals are:
- Rat, represents North in the Zodiac Compass.
- Ox, represents evil spirits that disturb lakes, rivers, and seas.
- Tiger, represents strength, military prowess and is one of the four animals symbolizing Power and Energy. The White Tiger presides over the Western Quadrant of the Heavens.
- Hare or Rabbit, is a symbol of longevity and East.
- Dragon, represents royalty, rain, spring. He presides over the Eastern Quadrant and admonishes against greed and avarice.
- Snake, symbolizes cunning, evil, and supernatural power.
- Horse, occupies the position of South on the Zodiac Compass
- Ram or Sheep, represents sacrifice; the lamb, filial piety
- Donkey, drives away evil spirits
- The Cock or Rooster, is courageous, has a warlike disposition, and represents the warmth and life of the Universe. Occupies the West on the Zodiac Compass.
- Dog, is a symbol of future prosperity
- Pig or Boar. The Boar represents the wealth of the forest; the Pig, poverty
See also: Chinese Lunar Calender