Chinese Astrology Explained

Chinese Astrology is the astrological tradition of ancient China. It stretches back thousands of years and has deep roots within Chinese culture. Unlike Western astrology, which is based on a solar calendar, Chinese astrology is built around the Chinese lunar calendar. Like in Western Astrology, the Chinese zodiac is made up of twelve signs. Each sign represents one year and influences the personality, relationships, and fortune of the person born under it.

The Zodiac Signs

The Chinese zodiac is made up of 12 animals and changes every year. According to legend, the order of the animals in the zodiac was determined by the Jade Emperor of China through a race. The twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac are:

• The Rat (鼠): Rats are resourceful, versatile, and kind, They are quick thinkers and adaptive. Birth years include 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, etc.
• The Ox (牛): Oxen are hard-working, strong, and filled with determination. They exemplify diligence and persistence. Birth years include 2021, 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, etc.
• The Tiger (虎): Tigers are brave and competitive. They Tigers are courageous and active people. Birth years include 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, etc.
• The Rabbit (兔): Rabbits are gentle and elegant. They are associated with good manners and a cautious nature. Birth years include 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, etc.
• The Dragon (龍): Dragons are dynamic and proud. They are also charismatic leaders and full of passion. Birth years include 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, etc.
• The Snake (蛇): Snakes are wise, mysterious, and rely on their intuition. To others, their character is often an enigma. Birth years include 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, etc.
• The Horse (馬): Horses are energetic and free. They love crowds and are spirited. Birth years include 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, etc.
• The Goat (羊): Goats are mild-mannered, and sympathetic. Others appreciate their gentleness and honesty. Birth years include 2027, 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, etc.
• The Monkey (猴): Monkeys are funny and energetic. They are also clever, resourceful, and curious about the world. Birth years include 2028, 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, etc.
• The Rooster (雞): Roosters are hardworking, and courageous. They are respected for their honesty and sociability. Birth years include 2029, 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, etc.
• The Dog (狗): Dogs are loyal, faithful, and honest. They also possess a strong sense of justice. Birth years include 2030, 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, etc.
• The Pig (豬): Pigs are sincere, tolerant, and hard-working characters. They also tend to be very generous and intelligent. Birth years include 2031, 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, etc.

The Five Elements

An essential part of Chinese astrology is the concept of the five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element is associated with different traits and affects the personality and destiny of individuals born under it. These elements rotate every two years and add another layers of complexity to the Chinese zodiac.

• Wood (木, Mù): Wood represents growth, vitality, and flexibility. People born under the influence of the Wood element have strong values and morals. They are resilient, generous, and cooperative. However, they can also be indecisive and passive at times. Wood governs the Tiger and Rabbit signs.
• Fire (火, Huǒ): Fire symbolizes passion, energy, and enthusiasm. Individuals born under the Fire element are dynamic leaders who are filled with creative ideas. They tend to be impulsive and aggressive. Fire rules the Snake and Horse signs.
• Earth (土, Tǔ): Earth stands for stability, reliability, and pragmatism. People born under the influence of Earth are patient, thoughtful, and disciplined. They are very meticulous and goal-oriented, but occasionally they are also too cautious and rigid. Earth governs the Ox, Dragon, Goat and Dog signs.
• Metal (金, Jīn): Metal is associated with strength, rigidity, and determination. Metal element personalities are determined, ambitious and focused. However, they may also be stubborn and unwilling to listen to others. Metal rules the Monkey and Rooster signs.
• Water (水, Shuǐ): Water represents intelligence, wisdom, and flexibility. Those with Water as their governing element are adaptable, persuasive, and sensitive. They are deep thinkers with a strong intellect. Water governs the Rat and Pig signs.

Four Pillars of Destiny

In order to construct a precise astrological profile for every kind of person, Chinese astrology developed the Four Pillars of Destiny, which takes into account the year, month, day, and hour of a person's birth. Each pillar represents different parts of one's personality and destiny.

• The Year Pillar: This pillar provides insight into a person’s heritage, and the influence of their ancestors. It gives a broad outline of the life's environment and the potential challenges and blessings inherited from your family lineage. It represents the influences that shape the early life and their impact on personality.
• The Month Pillar: The month of birth is crucial for understanding the adult life and career. It reflects the circumstances and relationships with parents and close family during the formative years. This pillar is often associated with the middle part of a person's life and career. It indicates the nature of their profession and career.
• The Day Pillar: Also known as the Day Master. This pillar is considered to be the most important pillar. It represents inherent traits, health, and personal relationships. It makes up the core of the personality. It also plays an important role in determining compatibility with others, especially in romantic relationships.
• The Hour Pillar: The hour pillar gives insights into one’s aspirations, dreams, and inner life. It also represents how a person will act as a parent and how their later life will look like. The hour of birth gives clues on ones spiritual inclinations and the legacy that one will leave behind.

Still curious?

If you would like to know more about Chinese astrology and how the Eight Pillars of Destiny affect your fate, check out our free Chinese Astrology calculator.