The Fascinating Story of the 12 Chinese Zodiac Animals
The Chinese Zodiac is an ancient system of astrology that has been used for centuries to determine personality traits, destiny, and fortune. The 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac are not just random creatures, but each has a unique story and significance behind it. Let's dive into the fascinating story of the 12 Chinese Zodiac animals.
The Great Race
According to legend, the Jade Emperor, the ruler of heaven and earth, decided to call upon all the animals in the forest to gather before him. He told them that he would give them a task, and the first 12 animals to complete it would be rewarded with a place in the Chinese Zodiac.
The task was simple: the animals had to cross a river and reach the other side. The animals were eager to participate, and the race began.
The 12 Animals and Their Stories
1. Rat
The rat was the first to cross the river, and therefore, it was given the first position in the Chinese Zodiac. According to legend, the rat tricked the cat into missing the race by telling it the wrong time to start.
2. Ox (or Cow)
The ox was the second to cross the river, and it was given the second position in the Chinese Zodiac. The ox was a hard worker and was determined to finish the race.
3. Tiger
The tiger was the third to cross the river, and it was given the third position in the Chinese Zodiac. The tiger was proud and powerful, but it was also impatient, which cost it the first position.
4. Rabbit (or Hare)
The rabbit was the fourth to cross the river, and it was given the fourth position in the Chinese Zodiac. The rabbit was kind and gentle, and it was able to outsmart the others by using a raft to cross the river.
5. Dragon
The dragon was the fifth to cross the river, and it was given the fifth position in the Chinese Zodiac. The dragon was powerful and majestic, but it was also a bit lazy, which cost it the top positions.
6. Snake
The snake was the sixth to cross the river, and it was given the sixth position in the Chinese Zodiac. The snake was sneaky and cunning, and it was able to slither across the river quickly.
7. Horse
The horse was the seventh to cross the river, and it was given the seventh position in the Chinese Zodiac. The horse was proud and confident, and it was able to gallop across the river quickly.
8. Goat (or Sheep)
The goat was the eighth to cross the river, and it was given the eighth position in the Chinese Zodiac. The goat was gentle and kind, and it was able to climb across the river using its agile legs.
9. Monkey
The monkey was the ninth to cross the river, and it was given the ninth position in the Chinese Zodiac. The monkey was quick and agile, and it was able to swing across the river using its long arms.
10. Rooster
The rooster was the tenth to cross the river, and it was given the tenth position in the Chinese Zodiac. The rooster was proud and loud, and it was able to fly across the river quickly.
11. Dog
The dog was the eleventh to cross the river, and it was given the eleventh position in the Chinese Zodiac. The dog was loyal and honest, and it was able to swim across the river quickly.
12. Pig (or Boar)
The pig was the twelfth and final animal to cross the river, and it was given the twelfth position in the Chinese Zodiac. The pig was lazy and gluttonous, but it was also determined and persevering.
Conclusion
The story of the 12 Chinese Zodiac animals is a fascinating one, filled with interesting characters and moral lessons. Each animal has its unique personality and strengths, and together, they form a complete cycle of life. Whether you're a rat or a pig, there's something to learn from the Chinese Zodiac.
