The Chinese Zodiac, traditionally known as Sheng Xiao, is a 12 year cycle of animal signs deeply rooted in Chinese culture and astrology. Each year is associated with a specific animal, believed to influence the personality traits and fortunes of those born under these signs.

The 12 animals that represent each of these years, in order, are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.According to the legends, the Jade Emperor or Yudi, a representation of the primordial god, held a race to determine the animals who would then be his guards, with the quick-witted Rat arriving first and the pig coming in last. The years in the zodiac are named in this succession and are given traits based on the performance of these animals.

People born in the year of the Rat are often intelligent, adaptable and charming as the Rat had not only won the race but had also displayed quick thinking by jumping on the Ox’s back to cross the river, that seemed to be a major hurdle for all the animals in this race.

Ox individuals are known for their diligence, strength and reliability as the Ox did not mind the Rat making use of its body.