Chinese Astrology

The Year of the Rat

Marion Webb-DeSisto May 13, 2008

 Have you ever wondered why the signs in Chinese Astrology are represented by twelve animals? Well, the story goes that when Lord Buddha was ready to leave the earth plane, he sent out a message to the animal kingdom, telling them he was about to depart. He invited the animals to come and wish him "Goodbye," but only twelve different ones accepted his offer. The order in which each one arrived then laid down the progression of the Chinese Astrological Years. The Rat came first, followed by the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, the Horse, the Sheep, the Monkey, the Rooster, the Dog and the Pig. The animal which arrived first was the Rat and on February 7, 2008 the Year of the Earth Rat begins. In 2009 it will be followed by the Year of the Earth Ox.

Those people who are born under this sign are easy to get along with, being charming and disarming. They are hard working, frugal and thrifty, possessing a love of money and can be generous to those for whom they hold a fondness. There is a tendency to be secretive, but they usually have a close circle of friends. Idleness and waste are irritating to the Rat and this can lead to a critical nature. A good memory is evident and keeping notes on people and things is a likely pursuit. However, there is always the possibility of becoming a busybody. The Rat is well able to cope with difficulties and performs best in a crisis.

The element of Earth can lead to the Rat being over-conscientious, self-righteous and intolerant of others. There is a need for security, order and discipline which causes this Chinese sign to rarely take chances or gamble. This may even lead to a stinginess with money, but because the Rat cares what others think about him/her, this can be avoided.

A Rat Year is one of plenty. Businesses thrive and fortunes are made. It is a good time for long-term investments as long as preparation is incorporated into the proceedings. Be careful not to take chances and/or over-extend, but by all means participate in bargaining. 2008 is an excellent year for socializing and enjoyment.

How You Will Fare in a Rat Year

Rat – This will be a prosperous time for you as you scurry through the year. There is the possibility of a promotion, a monetary gain, or even an unexpected achievement. Enjoy the benefits that your particular Chinese Astrology nature brings to you throughout 2008.

Ox – Luck will favour any projects and undertakings in which you become involved this year. There should be recognition in work for your stoic nature and a promotion may also be offered. At home there will be occasions to celebrate so throw off the yoke of sensibility and have some fun.

Tiger – Not a lucky year, my striped friend! Money will be scarce or possibly withheld. Steer clear of pouncing impulsively on what appears to be a good catch. Be conservative, wait patiently and be careful when and where you prowl.

Rabbit – A good year, but not as prosperous as you might wish. There will be slow progress, but with no serious problems. Make plans for the future and consider purchasing a home into which you can burrow and feel comfortable and safe.

Dragon – This sign lies within the Affinity Triangle with the Rat. It will be a lively year for pursuing business ventures and also romance. However, be watchful for a bad deal that could impact on your resources and make you breathe fire into your surroundings. An easy time to relax and groom your scales.

Snake – A year of new opportunities and it brings a fresh outlook on life. It’s also possible to make an advancement in your career. Remain coiled and holding onto what you have because it’s definitely not a time for lending or borrowing money. Both good and bad events may happen during the year of the Rat.

Horse – A difficult year. There may be unhappiness in romance and the need to stay clear of confrontations, particularly with the law. Money difficulties can appear within the family so don’t go galloping off into a spending spree. Just like the Snake, you should avoid lending or borrowing money.

Sheep – An excellent year for you. There could be gains from the lottery or gambling. Business opportunities beckon and success in romance and/or your social life is looming. There are no indications of illness or major problems during this Rat year as you graze in pastures green and enjoy the sunnier side of life.

Monkey – This is the other sign that lies within the Affinity Triangle with the Rat. It should be a lucky and prosperous year. Money appears from unlikely sources and a career advancement is likely. Requesting a loan will prove advantageous. Any problems that arise can easily be solved by your innate ability to be flexible and innovative. In addition, there’s the probability of a new member becoming part of your family.

Rooster – Not a good year for you. Money is scarce and your savings will be needed to sustain your status-quo; and don’t rely on friends for assistance. There could be problems in health and/or at home and you will have to settle them alone. A year that needs you to keep the crowing to a minimum. Be cautious, discrete and be sure to practise extreme moderation.

Dog – Fortune smiles on you this year. There should be success in business or additional income will materialize from investments. Your health is sound, but the possibility of problems at home or with young children can arise. So stay watchful and guard what is yours. Also, avoid lending money to anyone.

Pig – A year to be careful where you forage as uncertainties surround you. Work and home life are unsettled and an unexpected gain may turn into a loss. It’s a time when various worries weigh heavily on you and this, in turn, can affect progress and success.

Whatever your sign, remember life is full of ups and downs. If this year brings difficulties, as the cycle moves on to another sign, they will disappear and be replaced by good fortune. There is always balance in the universe. So try to enjoy whatever the Earth Rat may bring as he scampers his way through 2008 and into 2009. Keep things simple and have some fun.

© 2008 - Inner Balance/Outer Harmony