How much do you know the lunar Year of the Tiger?
Chinese zodiac years begin and end at Chinese New Year (lunar calendar in Jan/Feb). Each year in the repeating zodiac cycle of 12 years is represented by a zodiac animal, each with its own reputed attributes. In order, zodiac animals are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
The sequence of the 12 signs is popularly explained by a myth about when the Jade Emperor (the supreme immortal) was developing a calendar. All creatures on Earth were summoned to participate in a race. The first 12 to cross the line were awarded signs and their order in the Chinese zodiac.
According to legend, the Tiger was confident that no one could compete with its speed and vigor for the celestial race that would decide the order of the zodiacs. However, when Tiger climbed out of the river, it was informed that Rat placed first for its cunning and Ox placed second for its diligence. This left the king of the jungle having to settle for third place.
Chinese people believe that a person's horoscope, personality, and love compatibility are closely associated with his/her Chinese zodiac sign, determined by his/her birth year. Tigers are courageous and active people who love a good challenge and adventure in life. Like their eponymous zodiac animal, people born in years of the Tiger are vigorous and ambitious, daring and courageous, enthusiastic and generous, self-confident with a sense of justice.
Known as the king of all beasts in China, the Tiger is a symbol of strength, exorcising evils, and braveness. A Year of the Tiger is considered a good year. And of course we are looking forward to an exceptional year for Asian Tigers!
At the end of the article, let’s learn how to say Happy New Year in Chinese.
1. Xīn nián Kuài lè - Happy New Year! 2. Gong xǐfā cái - May you have a prosperous year! 3. Hǔ nián dà jí - Happy Year of the tiger 4. Suì suì píng ān - May you have peace year after year 5. Wàn shìrú yì - May all your hopes be fulfilled
We wish you all the best in the Year of Tiger!
