The history of Chinese horoscope dates back to thousands of years. Used in the Orient for thousands of years, it is still consulted on a daily basis by millions of people around the world. The prime focus of this page is to trace back the origin of Chinese horoscope.
The twelve animal signs in the Chinese horoscope are similar to the twelve signs of the Western Zodiac, but are based on the year the person was born rather than the year. It's remarkable to imagine as to why Chinese astrologers used these particular animal names. But unfortunately the Chinese horoscope history is so old that there are no ancient texts describing the whole process. Most likely, it is believed to be done empirically. The astrologers perhaps studied the human behavior and came up with twelve kinds to match their 12 year calendar cycle. Some of these animals like Rat and Snake, do not have the negative implications characteristic of Western perceptions, but in fact, they are looked upon as two of the most prestigious signs.
The names of the twelve years in the Lunar cycle in Chinese horoscope stems from the myth of Buddha as the history of Chinese horoscope reflects. According to the story, Buddha invited all the animals of the world to a feast before leaving this world. As the story goes, only twelve animals arrived and in the following order -- The rat, the ox, the tiger, the rabbit, the dragon, the snake, the horse, the sheep, the monkey, the rooster, the dog and the pig. Buddha then decided to name a year after each of them, in the order they arrived. This is how the twelve-year cycle now has each year with a symbolic animal. The characteristics and traits of these animals are said to influence the personality and fate of everything and everyone born in that year.
Another popular legend surrounding the origin of Chinese horoscope goes back to the Jade Emperor, who held a swimming race in order to select the animals for the zodiac. However, there are many variations to this story. We can conclude that the Chinese horoscope is based on the lunar cycle and comprises of five elements instead of four -- Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth. Yin and Yang are the complementary, dynamic forces which keep the universe in balance at every level.
Regardless of the exact version of Chinese horoscope history, the Chinese Zodiac has amazed and entertained people all around the world for thousands of years now and still keeps doing so.
Get an explanation of Chinese horoscope & know what is Chinese horoscope. Chinese horoscope explained here will help you learn the meaning of Chinese horoscope.