Unlike the International Calendar (the Gregorian Calendar), which is based on the months, the Chinese calendar is based strictly on astronomical observations of the Lunar cycle (the phases of the moon). The new Chinese year begins the second new moon after the Winter Solstice; meaning January or February of the Gregorian calender. Thus, those born in either of these months may actually be born in the Chinese year of the previous animal.
Examples: My daughter was born February 6, 1972. 1972 is the year of the rat. However, it did not become the year of the rat until February 16, 1972. So my daughter was born in the Chinese year of the pig/boar; 1971.
My niece was born January 13, 1971. 1971, as already stated, is the year of the pig/boar. Though the year of the pig/boar did not begin until January 27, 1971. So my niece was born in the Chinese year of the dog; 1970.
If you were born in January or February; not to worry. This program is accurate enough to pick up the correct animal sign for you. If you would like to confirm your animal sign refer to the
Chinese Lunar Years chart.
The Chinese years are grouped under 12 animal designations and are based on a legend regarding Lord Buddha. As he was getting ready to depart Earth he summoned all the animals to bid him farewell. Only 12 arrived and he honored them by naming a year after each animal in the order of their arrival:
Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
The animal ruling the year of your birth has a major influence on all aspects of your life. It is said "this animal hides in your heart". The time of day and the season of birth also have some influence.
To discover what the Chinese animal says about you, select month, day, year and hours (optional, but beneficial to learn the animal of your birth hour) of your birth, and click submit button.
