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GLOSSARY

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:

  1. Rat, represents North in the Zodiac Compass.
  2. Ox, represents evil spirits that disturb lakes, rivers, and seas.
  3. 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.
  4. Hare or Rabbit, is a symbol of longevity and East.
  5. Dragon, represents royalty, rain, spring. He presides over the Eastern Quadrant and admonishes against greed and avarice.
  6. Snake, symbolizes cunning, evil, and supernatural power.
  7. Horse, occupies the position of South on the Zodiac Compass
  8. Ram or Sheep, represents sacrifice; the lamb, filial piety
  9. Donkey, drives away evil spirits
  10. 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.
  11. Dog, is a symbol of future prosperity
  12. Pig or Boar. The Boar represents the wealth of the forest; the Pig, poverty

See also: Chinese Lunar Calender

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