The Chinese horoscope dates back to the 7th century A.D.. According to records Buddha had called to all the animals on earth, but only twelve appeared. These animals began disputing about who the new year shall be named after. To stop this dispute Buddha suggested the following procedure:
They should have a swimming competition across a river. The new year would then be named after the winner. The animals agreed. On Buddha's command they all jumped into the water and crawled or paddled towards their goal. The bull was the best swimmer and was leading after a short while. But he had not reckoned with the rat who, being clever, had gripped his tail. When the bull had almost reached the goal the rat quickly climbed over his head and was the first animal to jump on to land. That´s how she won the race, followed by the bull. Next came the tiger, followed by the rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, cock, dog and pig.
It is according to this ranking that the years of the Chinese horoscope are named. All creatures on earth are believed to inherit the characteristics of the animal which reigns during their year of birth.
To determine which Chinese Zodiac sign you are please select the Chinese lunar year in which you are born:
