Chinese zodiac animals: The horse and what it represents

By Zhou Jing: 0 Comment(s)Print E-mail China.org.cn, January 30, 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.

Legends tell that in ancient times, the horse possessed wings and resided among other immortals in the Heavenly Palace. It had the unique ability to run, fly, and swim; however, its arrogance, born from these powers, resulted in many troubles. As punishment, the Jade Emperor removed its wings and imprisoned it under Kunlun Mountain for 300 years. Later, humans helped the horse escape from the mountain, allowing it to return to a normal life. In gratitude, the horse aided people by cultivating land, pulling carts, transporting materials, and serving during wartime to confront invaders. As a result, the horse was selected to be one of the 12 zodiac animal signs.

In traditional Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes strength, speed, bravery, loyalty, freedom and talent. People born in the Year of the Horse are often expected to be brave, steady, upright, faithful and independent. Traditionally, careers suggested for those born under the horse sign include roles in sales, media, finance, charity, tourism and transportation.

The Horse years include 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026 and 2038.

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.