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Overview
The quest for self-knowledge has been a universal human pursuit for millenniums. Who are we? And could our destiny be written in the stars? Why do some commit their wings to life's flames, while others tiptoe through life so cautiously? In a quest for answers to these questions, there has been an explosion of renewed interest in Chinese astrology. Awareness of our essential nature provides insight into our most intimate relationships…and into ourselves. Chinese Astrology: Exploring the Eastern Zodiac explains our "natural endowment" or "inner being"--our personality from the beginning. This 5,000-year-old art paints a remarkable picture of personality and potential using the archetypes of the 12 signs of the ancient Eastern zodiac. While each one of us possess some qualities of all 12 signs, we each have a dominant sign and birth element. Be prepared for some ah ha! moments as you explore this ancient art and gain insight into the characters of those you meet along life's path. You may notice interesting similarities to your friends and family, and you may never look at yourself the same way again. This is a timeless system that is as pertinent today as it was many centuries ago. In a book that will fascinate both devotees of Western astrology and those who have never even checked their horoscopes in the newspaper, you'll learn -- The twelve signs of the Eastern Zodiac and what they tell you about yourself and others. -- The Five Elements, and how your birth element influences your destiny. -- Chinese love signs, karmic connections, and the secrets of soul mates. -- Your Chinese birth hour "companion"--your other self.
Product Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781601639929 |
|---|---|
| Publisher: | Red Wheel/Weiser |
| Publication date: | 06/15/2005 |
| Sold by: | Barnes & Noble |
| Format: | eBook |
| Pages: | 256 |
| Sales rank: | 852,290 |
| File size: | 4 MB |
About the Author
Read an Excerpt
CHAPTER 1
What Is Chinese Astrology?
To know a man's character, See what he does, Mark his motives, Examine in what things he rests.
— Confucius
The Eastern Zodiac is perhaps the oldest known horoscope system in the world. Ancient writings have been dated as early as the fourth millennium B.C., many of which have been well-preserved and can be found in the monasteries of Tibet, China, and southeast Asia.
In ancient China, the spiritual teachers of the time were responsible for maintaining the stability and the well-being of the population. After many centuries of recording seasonal, agricultural, astronomical, and physical cycles, theories concerning human nature also began to develop.
The roots of the Chinese astrological system are planted deeply in the classical philosophies of Kongzi (Confucius) and Laozi (Lao Tse). These leaders became the first recorded psychologists and counselors of the time. The art of character reading developed as the Chinese writing system emerged, and eventually merged with the philosophy of the time.
This psychological folk wisdom developed and was passed along orally beginning as early as 500 B.C. It was eventually refined and documented in the text of the Yi Jing (I Ching), or "Book of Changes." The insights into one's character, lifestyle, and emotional makeup are uncanny.
We are each born with a certain ming (destiny) in this life. The Chinese phrase for fate is ming yun. This is said to be an individual's life purpose, or the reason for their present existence. Fate occurs when events happen as intended. Tian ming is our destiny, or our "daily lot in life," when our fate (soul and spirit) is in harmony with our earthly personality.
The term "luck" is a rather unclear expression. Most of us know what luck is and are accutely aware of when it is good or bad. Although this luck cannot be seen, it is profoundly evident in our daily lives. In Eastern philosophy there is said to be three types of luck. "Heaven luck" is our fate, the big picture, the framework or spiritual roadmap of our life. "Man luck" is our destiny, the choices that we make, and the effort we put forth working within our intrinsic framework. "Earth luck" is the manipulation of our luck via the arranging of our environment (thereby altering the energy of external influences using tools such as feng shui).
Physicists tell us that "for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction." The laws of nature that apply to earthly physics function in a similar fashion throughout the spiritual world. Chinese astrology is a form of "spiritual quantum physics." Just as gravity plummets an object to the ground, so the laws of spiritual physics dictate that for every act there is a logical consequence. In this way, we shape our own destiny through our free will, and by way of the choices we make.
Each sign, or archetype, is a balanced mixture of positive and negative attributes. The Tiger's courage and bravery can also be manifest as haste, or action without forethought. The Dog's watchfulness and loyalty can become hypervigilance and possessiveness. The Rabbit's good manners and refinement can also be expressed as timidity and detachment. Those personality traits that we would naturally view as positive ones (loyalty, forgiveness, compassion) reflect alignment of our personality with our spirit (Qi). Those traits we would view as negative (anger, jealousy, bitterness) reflect a great separation between the human personality and our spiritual essence. The greater the gulf between spirit and personality, the darker one's character.
The ancient Chinese attributed the origin of all life to the balance between heaven and Earth, and the yin and the yang. The yin represents the negative, passive night-force; it is female, watery, and receiving. The yang represents the positive, aggressive day force; it is male, firey, and giving. These two halves are represented in the familiar Chinese symbol known as the Tai Qi, or the Yin and Yang.
Qi (pronounced Chee) is the life force itself. It is the combination of "heaven luck" (divine spirit) and "man, or earth luck" (human personality). One yin and one yang are called "Tao." Meaning "the way," Tao is the ancient Chinese term for the ordering principle that makes harmony possible. In the ancient text of the Tao Te Jing, the Chinese philosopher Lao Tse formulated a philosophical system that introduced the concept of health and prosperity through awareness of the natural cosmic cycles. This awareness of life, he suggested, was the path to finding "balance" and achieving a "satisfied mind." According to this principle, the Tao gives birth to one perfect whole that carries the yin on its back and embraces yang in its arms. This blending of Qi then becomes balanced and harmonious. Yin and yang are the Tao of heaven and of Earth. This is the principle and root beginning of life and death, of mother and father, and of spiritual enlightenment.
Although we mortals live on Earth, our life is suspended from heaven. We are, indeed, spiritual creatures contained within a physical body. When heaven and Earth combine Qi, this is called life. All living things need Qi to survive and to run their life cycles. Qi brings both good and bad fortunes. "Sheng Qi" is positive. It is present when we are happy, healthy, and flourishing in a balanced environment. "Si Qi" is a mixture of good and bad energy. It is present when we are weak or depleted, but basically at a status quo. "Sha Qi" is negative energy and is present when we experience extreme anger, illness, or misfortunes (such as disrupted relationships, professional or financial calamity, malevolent spirits, and death).
Some may find themselves born into an animal year that does not sound particularly flattering. A sign such as the Dragon sounds very majestic and important. Other signs (the Pig, for instance) seem somehow less impressive. Each animal designation is a symbolic archetype and represents a specific behavioral psychology. It could perhaps be called the Myers-Briggs personality inventory of Eastern philosophy. Each personality style fulfills an essential place in the balance of the universe.
The Asian Zodiac uses calculations of yearly or lunar year periods, rather than months to order the signs. Each of the 12 animal signs lasts for an entire year, beginning on various dates between mid-January and mid-February. Each sign repeats every 12th year, but the specific combination of animal sign and element occurs only once every 60 years.
My wish for you, the reader, is to discover this ancient treasure trove of knowledge, and the hidden forces that underlie your personality. Have fun as you begin this adventure, and may you enjoy your journey on this "search for self."
CHAPTER 2The 12 Signs of the Eastern Zodiac
The wise person does not lay up treasure; their riches lie within.
— Lao-tse
The Symbolic Parable
According to legend, the order of the 12 signs of Chinese astrology was determined by Buddha. Upon celebration of the Chinese New Year (which falls on different dates, from mid-January to mid-February), all of the animals in the kingdom were invited, but only 12 creatures attended.
The first animal to arrive was the intellectual, talkative Rat, who was aggressive enough to jump off the back of the Ox, and thus the first to arrive.
The next to come was the hardworking Ox, followed by the active Tiger, and the detached Rabbit (or Cat). The outspoken Dragon joined the others, as did the wise and philosophical Snake. The physically active Horse trotted in with his good friend the artistic Goat.
The irrepressible Monkey and the candid Rooster arrived as well. The last to join the others were the watchful Dog and the resigned Pig.
The legend continues that each animal acquired a year of its own, bestowing their symbolic nature and characteristics to those born in that animal's year. It is the untamed force concealed within you — your inner self from the beginning.
Find Your Chinese Birth Sign
[TABLE OMITTED]
CHAPTER 3The Rat/Mouse
The Eclectic Rat (Tze) — the "Concealed Charmer"
[TABLE OMITTED]
The first position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Rat, is one of charm, creativity, and survival. Those souls born into Rat years learn the lesson of "concealment," as an embryo is hidden within the womb. The Rat is analytical, always curious, and highly intelligent.
Rats inhabit a private world, one that is hidden from view and camouflaged — a place of retreat. They use charm to deflect and evade unpleasantness whenever possible. Under duress, Rats know how to take cover, artfully dodging both expectations and intrusions. Because they are always alert, Rats may seem anxious or nervous at times. Their attentiveness allow them to avoid many traps and dangers in life. The Rat represents fertility, the ability to live unseen, and intelligence. Being consumate suriviors, Rats have the ability to adapt easily to most circumstances.
Talkative and fascinating, the Rat is a natural in social situations, and is always a favorite party guest. However, the Rat is essentially introverted by nature and feels the most comfortable when socializing with close friends and family. Master of many trades, the eclectic Rat has an innate sense of human nature and is observant of those around them. According to Chinese folk legend, as maturity approaches, Rats are believed to acquire the gift of prophecy. They are natural teachers, and enjoy imparting life's knowledge to all who care to listen (often doing so well into the midnight hour).
The most harmonious time of day for the Rat is between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m., when the dark yin force reaches its peak. The stealthy Rat rules these arcane hours that encompass the yin and the yang. It is said that the Rat has a split personality because of this. In spite of their love of parties and sharing of nightly confidences, midnight should be a time of rest and regeneration for them.
Essential Temperament
Analytical and, at times, argumentative, the Rat will gain the upper hand in any verbal battle of wits. Worry (especially over health matters), excitability, and a quick temper can also be part of their nature. Although lovable, the Rat is a bit of an opportunist. Most cannot resist making a good deal. Disarmingly charming and materialistic, this soul is warm-hearted, passionate, and wired to live for the moment.
Those born into Rat years are lovable and remain physically attractive throughout their lives. Rats are so resourceful and ambitious that they are often very financially successful. They love to acquire possessions and are extraordinarily good at spotting a bargain. An occasional Rat will become greedy or stingy, but most are kindhearted and fair. The perfect gift for a Rat person is an unusual object that has come from a faraway place, such as a relic from an ancient tomb.
Those born into Rat years are always in pursuit of a new adventure. Rats are natural explorers and voyagers. They adore all things different and unusual. Rats usually love to travel, and any foreign voyage will excite them. Favorite escape places for the Rat are caves, caverns, underground passages, and catacombs. Bizarre and forbidden places, such as abandoned castles and undiscovered ruins, fascinate the inquisitive Rat.
Verbally candid and agile, the Rat excels as a critic. The Rat lives by its wits and, given a choice, avoids manual labor (often directing others to get the task done). They prefer to use their brain to problem-solve and create adventures and possibilities. Rats also make excellent managers and business owners.
Rats have an unusually fruitful imagination and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. With a desire for diverse experiences, the Rat is a true magician of words and imagination. The season of the year when born, summer or winter, strongly influences the life of the Rat. Those born in the summer, when food is plentiful and grain lofts full, are less prone to worry. It is said that a Rat born in the winter must endlessly scavenge for food and will always fear poverty.
The Rat personality can be difficult to understand. It is intricate and occasionally contradictory. The effusive Rat can talk to anyone about anything. Although Rats are sharp critics, they usually maintain propriety and diplomacy. Rats are also amusing and entertaining companions, being both intellectually sharp and versatile. Fidgety and restless, Rats detest boring routine, and variety is what this soul seeks.
The Other Side — the Rat's Duality
In contrast to their many admirable attributes, unenlightened Rats can be covert, secretive, and will deflect or mislead if it is to their advantage. They are difficult to please, demanding, and highly critical of others. Often their standards are so unreasonable that they are impossible for others to uphold. Despite their surface composure, Rats may also be gnawed by a devastating feeling of insecurity. Due to their congeniality, Rats usually have an impressive circle of acquaintances at their fingertips, and an unscrupulous Rat will take full advantage of this. Profiteering and opportunistic behavior represents the Rat's energy being directed in its most unproductive form. It is for this reason that some Rats have difficulty making or keeping close friends. Expressed in its darkest form, this energy becomes dishonesty, agitation, restlessness, neurosis, aggressiveness, pettiness, hypochondria, and seclusion. The choice lies entirely with the individual. Taken to extreme, histrionic or avoidant personality disorders may develop.
Gifts and Capabilities
Being high-strung by nature, Rats hate alarm clocks, agendas, and pressure. They work most efficiently in solitary situations. Rat souls are rarely content working for others. This explains the surprising number of business owners, shopkeepers, and entrepreneurs who were born into Rat years. When Rats make money it is directly attributable to their acute intelligence.
Rats are the thriftiest souls in the Chinese Zodiac. Every expenditure is carefully considered, and all pennies spent are accounted for and justified. Rats worry about their financial future, and soberly consider every purchase or investment.
Many Rats possess a talent for writing, especially in the areas of fantasy, ancient lore, and science fiction. The Rat has an uncanny imagination, and many gifted writers and publicists were born in Rat years. Their imagination thrives in sequestered nooks, in worlds of their own, private and lost to view.
The deep-seated creativity of this sign cries out for expression either through writing, sculpture, or painting. Art reproductions, verbatim at times, are a Rat specialty. Expression through music is another way Rats channel their creative energies. This sign boasts many composers and conductors. The combination of imagination and depth can motivate the Rat to write a classic novel, compose a brilliant symphony, or acquire and sell the rarest of lost art treasures.
Those born under the sign of the Rat enjoy the material comforts of life. Food and housing are their highest priorities. Rats always stock up for a rainy day, feeling most comfortable with a little extra stored away. The Rat lives in the present and harbors fear of lack in the future. The Rat can feel isolated and tends to suffer alone. Money, or the lack thereof, is a particular concern. However, as a result of their cleverness and meticulous attention to detail, Rats usually make money rather easily. The Rat is an organizational genius at home and prefers a neat and tidy atmosphere.
The Child
As children, little Rats are sweet and loving, and have charming dispositions. However, like Monkey and Tiger children, Rat children are extremely hyperactive. They may seem shy, but inwardly Rat children are quite competitive. These little survivors are blessed with an accelerated metabolism, and even the most premature of Rat infants have a good chance for survival. This child will talk at an early age and take an interest in cooking and helping around the home. Being affectionate and demonstrative, this child will enjoy group play and will make friends easily. The highly intelligent Rat child will be an avid reader and will learn to use words early in life.
Home and Hearth
Rat parents like to teach and impart knowledge to their youngsters. The Rat is an alert parent who always makes sure their children have opportunities to learn, to experiment, and to understand. These parents will provide nutritious food that enhances children both mentally and physically. Rats are self-conscious and do not enjoy being the center of family photographs, home movies, or photo albums. The evasive nature of this sensitive soul does not like to feel exposed.
The most favorable time of year for cozy Rats is during the post-harvest winter months between late January and late February. At this time the storehouses are stocked with food and families are sequestered, safe, sheltered, and secure. Good food and good conversation can be shared and the Rat can enjoy the results of their labor.
Both male and female Rats are gregarious and tend to lead an extremely active social life. Wherever these talkative charmers find themselves, their presence is welcome. Rat souls liven up any reunion in which they take part. These souls love entertaining and do it with knowledge and refinement. Their guests, who are numerous, find them the most entertaining of hosts and hostesses and are inclined to lavish compliments on them.
(Continues…)
Excerpted from "Chinese Astrology"
by .
Copyright © 2005 Shelly Wu.
Excerpted by permission of Red Wheel/Weiser, LLC.
All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Excerpts are provided by Dial-A-Book Inc. solely for the personal use of visitors to this web site.
Table of Contents
Introduction,
Chapter 1 What Is Chinese Astrology?,
Chapter 2 The 12 Signs of the Eastern Zodiac,
Chapter 3 The Rat,
Chapter 4 The Ox,
Chapter 5 The Tiger,
Chapter 6 The Rabbit/Cat,
Chapter 7 The Dragon,
Chapter 8 The Snake,
Chapter 9 The Horse,
Chapter 10 The Goat/Sheep,
Chapter 11 The Monkey,
Chapter 12 The Rooster,
Chapter 13 The Dog,
Chapter 14 The Pig/Boar,
Chapter 15 The Elements,
Chapter 16 Your Birth Time Companion,
Chapter 17 Chinese Love Signs—Karmic Connections,
Chapter 18 Quick Reference Guide to the 12 Signs of the Eastern Zodiac,
Endnotes,
Index,
About the Author,