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It is said that Buddha had summoned all of the animals on earth to his bedside. But only twelve of these responded. And so in
their honor, he named a year after each one of them. Thus the twelve year cycle. Each year or animal has it's own
characteristics that affect the happenings of that particular year. It is also believed that when a person is born under a
particular animals sign, that they will have the assigned qualities of that animal.
The Chinese zodiac is based on a cycle of twelve years. Unlike the western calendar, which is based on the solar
year. The old Chinese calendar is based on the Lunar year. Or cycles of the moon. The Chinese have been using the solar
calendar since 1911, but for purposes of their festivals, they still resort to the old lunar calendar.
The group of twelve animals of the zodiac, first started appearing during the Zhan Guo Shi Dai (Warring States ) period. (
475 B.C.E. - 220 B.C.E. ). A fixed identity for each sign took place during the Han Dynasty ( 206 B.C.E. - 220 B.C.E. ).
And the popularity of determining a persons birth year by way of the zodiac, took hold during the North Zho Dynasty ( 557
C.E. - 581 C.E. ).
If you know the Chinese Animal of birth, you can easily know the characteristic features of the people born under the
influence of their respective animals. You can know about yourself, or even try with the year of birth of your friends,
relatives & others. If you don't know what your, or your friend's, zodiac-animal is, you can simple go to our "Know your
Chinese Animal" page, and can very easily find out your chinese zodiac-animal. Following are the animals of the Chinese
zodiac and their characteristics: |
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The Rat :
Smart, Magnetic, Well-liked, Affable, Quick-witted, Surreptitious, Selfish, Protective, Calculating.
People born in the year of the rat are devoted to their families. They are collectors and hoarders with an eye for a
bargain. The rat is very sociable, quick-witted with deep emotions despite their cool exterior. They will always stand by
their friends and expect the same loyalty in return. They will also use any means at their disposal to their own advantage.
Love-Life & Marriage : Rats are beautiful people with magnetic personalities. The Rat himself can't
help but notice the admiration he receives from others. If the Chinese say there are few poor Rats, there are an even fewer
number who are not sexually stimulating- especially as young people. Rat people are romantic, and are always happier to have
someone to share with. Although Rats like to be in the driver's seat, they do need partners who can keep up with their active
lifestyles. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be successful in love and in
business. Yet, though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must still make efforts to maintain loving
relationships.
Compatible Friends : Dragons and Monkeys
Mortal Enemy : Horses
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The Ox :
Obstinate, Pouty, Truthful, Motivated, Friendly, Apathetic, Genuine, Quick-tempered.
People born in the year of the Ox are solid and dependable. They are logical and brilliant organizers, not easily
influenced by others. Loyal to their friends but if you deceive them they will never forget. They do not like excitement, but
when in a relationship they are completely dependable.
Love-Life & Marriage : Oxen dislike chit-chat. They don't have fun at parties and as aforementioned, don�t have
a ton of friends. They are not very sociable and would rather be spending their time at home with their families. When the Ox
is in love, he does not confirm his feelings verbally, preferring to show you how he feels rather than tell you. An Ox will
take a long time to decide if you are the right match for him because Oxen hate change, and want to find someone who is ready
to embark upon a stable marriage. Oxen never rush into anything and are not flirtatious people. Once they have committed to
you they will usually be faithful and expect reciprocation of their honorable actions. Unfortunately, many Ox marriages do
fall apart after a couple of years, possibly because the Ox is too dominant or inflexible. Perhaps it's because, Oxen tend to
place blame on everyone but themselves. But if an Ox fortunate, and has chosen wisely, the couple can build and maintain a
close-knit family to which the Ox will completely devote himself. Oxen are strong, silent, reliable people who sometimes take
for granted that their relationship is a partnership and that they make not always be the dominant figure. Other Animals may
find them quite stubborn and overbearing. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to
be successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must still make all
efforts to maintain loving relationships. Following is a brief description of how an Ox will affect a relationship with other
Animal signs.
Compatible Friends : Rabbits, Roosters and Snakes
Mortal Enemy : Goat
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The Tiger :
Courage, Vehemence, Self-Reliance, Friendliness, Hopefulness, Resilience, Vanity, Disregard.
People born in the year of the Tiger believe in living life to the full. The impulsive tiger often leaps in without
thinking but their exuberance sees them through unless they become bored and give up. They love to be admired, but if they
feel down they need a shoulder to cry on until they bounce back. They need excitement in their relationships, when the
tigers in love they are warm and generous but watch out for those claws if you upset them.
Love-Life & Marriage : Tigers are incredibly sexy people, beautiful to most people and sensually romantic. They
are spontaneous lovers who never lose their creative spark or flare for an evening of passion. They offer their partner a
hint of danger and exhibit a curiosity for the unknown. Once a Tiger has committed himself to you, he can tend to want to
dominate or lead you. This is a natural nurturing mechanism and must be kept under close watch to avoid complete control. For
the negative effects a Tiger can have on his partner, there are a zillion positive things he will bring to the relationship.
Trust, passion, politeness and spontaneity are only a few characteristics of the Tiger mate. Tigers love excitement and need
someone who can keep up with all they want to do and see. His partner must also be able to stand the mood swings, the ups and
downs, the good with the bad. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be
successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can point us ion the right direction, we must still make all efforts
to maintain loving relationships. Following is a brief description of how a Tiger will affect a relationship with other
Animal signs.
Best Friends : Horses and Dogs
Mortal Enemy : Monkeys
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The Rabbit :
Keen, Wise, Fragile, Tranquil, Serene, Considerate, Fashionable, Sneaky, Obsessive.
People born in the year of the Rabbit are the diplomatic, they detest conflict, they can be evasive and sometimes
tell you what you want to hear and not what they are thinking. It is difficult to tell what they are thinking, and when you
think they have given up don't be fooled by their looks, as they will be planning their next move. If you need advice they
will offer you good counselling. Rabbits stay clear of the limelight, but always enjoy the good things in life.
Love-Life & Marriage : The Rabbit lover would never dream of wearing his heart on his sleeve. The
Rabbit seems aloof, yet underneath is sensual and loving - a tough facade protects a tender interior. Rabbit folk are
romantic yet realistic, generous yet mercenary. Rabbits are strongly Yin and, whether male or female, are in tune with the
feminine part of their psyche. Their mothering instinct compels them to nurture others, and they have an innate love of home
and family. Rabbits are easily moved to tears through words, thoughts and actions. They are deeply sensitive people who shun
conflict. Rabbits tend to be a little moody and are sometimes influenced by the friends they have. Despite their cool
exterior, they have a reputation for being very sexual and intimate beings. Although they may go a little crazy in their
youth, they will commit themselves readily to a partner for life. The Rabbit needs a partner who is affectionate and loving
and who will pamper his mate a bit. A partner who shares the style and suave of the Rabbit will make a good lover for him as
well. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be successful in love and in
business. Yet, though destiny can pint us in the right direction, we must still make all efforts to maintain loving
relationships. Following is a brief description of how a Rabbit will affect a relationship with other Animal Signs.
Best Friends : Goats and Pigs
Mortal Enemy : Roosters
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The Dragon :
Innovative, Enterprising, Flexible, Self-assured, Brave, Passionate, Conceited, Tactless, Scrutinizing, Unanticipated,
Quick-tempered.
People born the year of the Dragon have the spirit of adventure, they relish new projects and often fail to notice colleagues
that are trying to keep up with them or planning things behind their backs. The dragon needs to be in charge and will make
the rules up as they go along, They will motivate others and are willing to help those close to them but are too proud to
accept help in return. Always striving to be at the top, hard working, trustworthy and loyal to their friends. When upset
they are fiery and explosive, but will soon calm down.
Love-Life & Marriage : Negatively, Dragons are egotistical and love to be the center of attention. Modesty is
not one of his assets. Add to that the Dragon temper and you have a bossy, dominating and authoritative being. They hate
solicited advice and can be hopelessly tactless and insensitive to their lovers. People love Dragons so much because they are
generous, charismatic, irresistible, and so brave that standing beside them banishes fear. They generate excitement and turn
heads anywhere they go. They are free-spirited and impulsive and can help others achieve their dreams. Others love to be
around Dragons because they have a way of making people feel better. Dragons are quick to fall in love, but do not surrender
their independence easily leaving most of them to live life by themselves. Yet, an smart, witty, and funny companion may
intrigue the Dragon long enough to make him want to get married. And once the Dragon becomes committed, he is unlikely to
ever leave. It takes someone with thick skin who is easygoing to be a Dragon's partner, because, despite their sentimental
characters, they can be moody, and insensitive. Many people will want to run when the Dragon's temper is provoked. Chinese
horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be successful in love and in business. Yet,
though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must still make all efforts to maintain loving relationships.
Following is a brief description of how a Dragon will affect a relationship with other Animal signs.
Best Friends : Rats, Monkeys
Mortal Enemy : Oxen, Dogs
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The Snake :
Acute, Aware, Cunning, Proud, Vain, Vicious.
People born in the year of the snake always prefer the good things in life. They are very patient and like to keep to
themselves as they don't like relying on others. When the snake is in pursuit of it's goals it can be ruthless, and at the
same time it can be gentle and generous. When in a relationship the snake tends to demand a lot and is very passionate. The
snake finds it hard to forgive and forget anyone who upsets him. The snake is good at making money and never wastes it.
For the snake person only the best is good enough. The mysterious snake uses his charm to get what he wants so never cross a
snake as it could have a deadly bite if he doesn't get his own way.
Love-Life & Marriage : Snakes are beautiful people who exhibit quite a sexual appeal. They are sleek and
seductive and if they want you, will out a spell on you that won�t let you stop thinking about them. However, Snakes are
quite prejudiced when choosing a partner and don�t just choose based on physical qualities. The Snake needs a partner who can
appreciate his quirky sense of humor and his wacky way of handling situations, so generally, although quite beautiful and
tempting to approach, the Snake does all the pursuing. Because the Snake is so choosy, he can become jealous and obsessive
about his partner. They can be a bit stand-offish with their mates, choosing to push away emotions rather than confront their
feelings and insecurities. Once betrayed, you can bank on not ever being trusted by the Snake again as much as you can bet he
will get even. Not everyone can live and be happy with a Snake. It takes a patient soul, someone ready for the long haul, who
can calm his nerves and deal with his obsessions with skill. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships
have the potential to be successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must
still make all efforts to maintain loving relationships. Following is a brief description of how a Snake will affect a
relationship with other Animal Signs.
Best Friends : Oxen and Roosters
Mortal Enemy : Pigs
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The Horse :
Self-reliant, Joyful, Outgoing, Sophisticated, Greedy, Resilient, Arrogant.
People born in the year of the horse are the real workers, they will not stop until the job is finished, but it must be in their own time. They have razor sharp minds and can sum up a situation in seconds, some times too quick for their own good, and they will leave before getting the whole picture. Horses often have several projects on the go at the same time. They are confident, ambitious and expect to reach the top of their chosen paths. The horse values the opinions of others and will change course when advised by people they respect They are quick to lose their temper, but seldom bear a grudge.
Love-Life & Marriage : Horse lovers are eternally young at heart. They sail through life on a whim, spontaneous and open-minded waiting for the next big adventure. Horse lovers are charming and affectionate. They are inspiring with their imagination and vigor, their intellect and wit. They make you want to be around them and thus hardly have problems securing Saturday night dates. Horses are energetic spouses who fall in love quite rapidly. Along with their spontaneity comes a bit of impatience and they demonstrate that when they meet someone they want to be involved with. They throw all of themselves into a relationship, sometimes losing tiny bits and pieces of themselves along the way. However, a light at the end of the tunnel: in adulthood Horses are more stable and thus their adult relationships are more successful. Horses live their lives in full swing. They have boundless energy and spend more time on the go than they do at home. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must still make all efforts to maintain loving relationships. Following is a brief description of how a Horse will affect a relationship with other Animal Signs.
Best Friends : Tigers and Dogs
Mortal Enemy : Rats
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The Goat :
Smart. Artistic, Kind, Happy, Reserved, Insecure, Dependent.
People born in the year of the Goat are the peace lovers, full of compassion and very emotional. The shy goat is a worrier and seems to be put upon by others. But when they really believe in something they dig in and keep going until they get where they want to be.. Goats are normally very popular, others always want to help them. They strive for the finer side of life. Dislikes difficulties and will try to avoid conflicts.
Love-Life & Marriage : Goats do not like to be alone. They are very family-oriented people. If you do not like children or big families, Goats are not right for you. Goats will give themselves entirely to the right person and will do everything they can to maintain a stable, loving, happy relationship. Even though Goats can be clingy and self-deprecating they are loving creatures who make great romantic partners. They are compassionate and kind, genuine and affectionate. A Goat needs a partner who will be supportive and attentive and who will help him develop his self-confidence. Goats are often unaware of even their own talents, but with encouragement and love they will bring those talents forth. Goats crave a partner who makes them feel safe enough to try new things and who will give them the confidence they need to shine.
Best Friends : Rabbits and Pigs
Mortal Enemy : Oxen
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The Monkey :
Imaginative, responsible, humorous, witty, curious, clever, sneaky.
People born in the year of the Monkey use their intelligent minds to get their ideas in motion. They tend to wriggle
out of difficult situations, and if all else fails they don't mind using tricks to further their own ends. They don't seem
to notice the effect of their tricks on others, but even so, they are generally very popular. Monkeys are usually very
successful. They love a challenge and when things get tough their sharp wits get them out of a situation.
Love-Life & Marriage : Monkeys, of all the other signs, are the most promiscuous. They are flirtatious
and like to seek the attention of others to get what they want. They are easily bored and must be stimulated intellectually
as well as physically in order to stay around for extended periods of time. The Monkey can be clever, mischievous and
manipulative when pursuing a love interest. A Monkey�s best love interest is lighthearted and open-minded. He can�t be overly
sensitive or the Monkey will lose interest. Monkeys are intense, sensual lovers. They can tease or charm anyone in a matter
of seconds. They enjoy entertaining their lovers with their senses of humor and their ability to captivate a crowd. When the
Monkey decides on a mate, it is likely to be forever. A Monkey�s best love interest is lighthearted and open-minded. He can�t
be overly sensitive or the Monkey will lose interest.
Best Friends : Dragons and Rats
Mortal Enemy : Tigers
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The Rooster :
Brave, Romantic, Motivated, Proud, Blunt, Resentful, Boastful.
People born in the year of the Roosters are the ones that are the centre of attention. When the sociable rooster is present everyone will know it. Strong willed and confident they will never be happy to take a back seat. The rooster is the master of debate and will stop at nothing when they know that they are right. Roosters are brave, perfectionists and full of energy. They hate criticism, love flattery and can be single minded on their out look on life.
Love-Life & Marriage : Roosters are generally pretty black or white when it comes to their feelings. They either like you, or they don�t. There is no in between. Although they are vocal with opinions and ideas, Roosters are pretty tight-lipped about their personal emotions and feelings. They certainly don�t wear their hearts on their sleeves. They are intensely private people who never kiss and tell. Roosters are not extremely easy to live with. However, if you can get past their bossy, obstinate, my way or no way exterior, you find a wonderfully romantic, caring individual hidden beneath. Their hearts are made of solid gold and they genuinely care abut their family and friends as mush as they care about themselves (believe it or not!). They are not suited for a sensitive partner, again, their candor and wit can be humiliating at times. Roosters can be highly critical of their partners, often expecting too much of them. Roosters need a stable companion, one who can take everything he dishes out. He needs someone who will stand up to him and his mincing words and out him in place when need be. Roosters also need partners who will deflate them when they are a bit too high on themselves and who can take their constant boasting.
Best Friends : Oxen and Snakes
Mortal Enemies : Rabbits
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The Dog :
Responsible, Compassionate, Reliable, Honest, Pessimistic, Anxious, Overwhelming, Nosy.
People born in the year of the Dog believe in justice, they are extremely loyal to their friends and are always willing to listen to people's problems and will tell you what they are thinking and can be sometimes critical, but will never betray a confidence. The hard working dog is not interested in making a fortune but loves to relax with their friends and family. They take their time in getting to know a person and when they really want something they pull out all the stops to get it. Don't get in their way as they will lash out, but with the dog tempers are normally short-lived.
Love-Life & Marriage : Dogs can be overly shy when making friends or courting someone. If they are interested, they want to make certain you are as well before expressing any interest. They are emotionally sensitive people, who don't take wounds to the heart very easily. As a lover, Dogs are compassionate, supportive partners, eager to hear about your day at work or the project you just finished. They share the highs and lows of being in love, defending their partners to anyone who attacks them. Happy Dogs are more likely to want families than Dogs in mediocre relationships. Dogs are simple and lead very easygoing lives. They can be mean with word sometimes and must learn to control their angry tongues. Dogs make good partners and most people find them easy to live and get a long with. His seriousness or grounded personality may be boring to some, but to others it demonstrates an innate stability.
Best Friends : Tigers and Horses
Mortal Enemy : Dragons
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The Pig :
Hardworking, Giving, Willing, Helpful, Materialistic, Gullible, Oblivious, Obstinate.
People born in the year of the Pig are honest and generous and a good friend to have. Always popular at any social gathering. They try not to argue and seldom lose their temper. They detest conflicts and like to think well of others. Their greatest weakness is over-indulgence. They love the pleasures of life and are always willing to share. Being good organizers they will always help in a good cause.
Love-Life & Marriage : Pigs are great partners to have because they are so supportive and giving of themselves. They are happiest at home, so arguments about late nights out with friends are few and far between for the Pig and his mate. Pigs are sexual creatures who love to be affectionate. Pigs are wonderful companions, appreciative and caring. They are grateful for the things they have, especially a loving and healthy family. Once they choose a partner, they are in it for the long haul. Pigs do not like discord and will do whatever it takes to maintain a peaceful homestead. Pigs make good partners and most people would consider themselves lucky to be involved with one. Still, some people are not suited for a Pig�s easygoing nature.
Best Friends : Goats, Rats and Rabbits
Mortal Enemy : Tigers and Horses
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