Chinese zodiac animals: The ox and what it represents

By Zhou Jing: 0 Comment(s)Print E-mail China.org.cn, January 25, 2025

Editor's note: The Chinese zodiac, or "shengxiao," consists of 12 animal signs that mark the years. Each animal represents one year in a repeating 12-year cycle, which is calculated based on the Chinese lunar calendar.

The 12 animals, in order, are the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. These animals, along with the 10 Heavenly Stems and 12 Earthly Branches, are traditionally believed to significantly influence human personalities, marriages, careers and fortunes, thereby holding great importance in individuals' lives.

Some historians believe the Chinese zodiac took shape during the Han dynasty (206 B.C.-A.D. 220), while others trace its origins back to the Western Zhou dynasty (1046 B.C.-771 B.C.). Throughout its development, the Chinese zodiac has inspired a variety of widely accepted animal-related legends and folktales.

One legend holds that the order of the zodiac animals was decided by Emperor Xuanyuan. After summoning the animals, he ranked the first one he saw at the top, with the other 11 following. The ox led the way to meet Emperor Xuanyuan. However, the rat jumped onto its back, hitching a ride to claim first place.

In traditional Chinese culture, which is largely centered around agriculture, the ox has always been regarded as essential, symbolizing diligence and dedication. It works hard and makes significant contributions to agriculture and the lives of rural residents. For this reason, folktales suggest that the ox ranks second in the zodiac order.

People born in the Year of the Ox are typically seen as honest, reliable, persistent, industrious and strong-willed. Older generations often encourage them to pursue stable careers that require specific expertise, such as teacher, editor, lawyer, technician or police officer.

The Ox years include 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021 and 2033.

According to the Chinese lunar calendar, the 2025 Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, falls on Jan. 29, 2025. This day marks the beginning of the Year of the Snake, which will last until Feb. 16, 2026. Since 2025 overlaps with most of the Year of the Snake, it is commonly referred to as such.