The Story of the Chinese Zodiac

On the continent of Asia, in its south-eastern corner, a mass of land stretches with a country of China. The country is marked by beautiful mountains, its Great Wall, rich history and traditions. One of the traditions, which greatly differs from the Western world, is the Chinese calendar. In the Chinese calendar, each of the twelve animals has a different character represented by the year you were born in. It is said that “This is the animal that hides in your heart.”

A long time ago, when the Jade Emperor ruled China there was no calendar. Therefore, there was no way to measure time and no way to celebrate birthdays.

One day, the King of Heaven, namely the Jade Emperor announced, “Something must be done.” The Emperor loved animals, thus an idea sprang into his mind, “I could use an animal for each month….hmm…but which animals should I pick and for which month?”

The Emperor known for its great mind, decided to sleep on it, “I know it will come to me sooner than expected.” And true enough, the following morning the Emperor announced a race, “A swimming race across a wide river. The first twelve animals will represent the twelve months of our calendar.”

Every creature in the kingdom was invited to compete.

Rat and Cat, the best friends, trotted to the river together. “Look at those big strong animals,” whimpered Rat.” A Dragon spitted a fire, a Tiger groaned, a Snake waved his body around a tree, blocking a Monkey jumping from one tree to another.

“Don’t worry,” encouraged Cat. “Look at the Pig. It’s wallowing in a pool of mud. I’m pretty sure you can outrun a pig.”

The Rat was still not quite convinced, “Look at the strong current of the river. How are we going to do it?”

The Cat paused for a moment, when spotting an Ox, he said, “Come on. Let me talk to the Ox.”

Upon approaching the Ox, the Cat smoothed his whiskers and stated, “Ox you are such a strong animal with a broad back. Do you think you could carry two small animals on your back across the strong currents of the river?”

“It will be my pleasure,” responded the Ox laying down his body on the green lush grass. “Why don’t you hop on.”

At the same time, the Jade Emperor shouted, “Ready, steady, go!”

All the animals plunged into the water, squawking, bleating and snorting. The ride on the back of the Ox was smooth. He was leading the pack, however the rest of the animals were not far behind. A Rooster with a Monkey and Sheep were approaching them on a raft. “You’re doing great,” the Cat encouraged the Ox.

Now the Rat spotted a Hare jumping from one stone to another across the river and a Tiger pushing with all his strength against the currents. They both were getting closer and closer to the Ox. “Keep going,” shouted the Rat. “We’re almost there.”

They were approaching the Jade Emperor standing at the bank of the river and waving his hands, invigorating the competitors.

The Rat saw a chance at winning. He sneaked by the Cat and moved to the Ox’s head between its two horns. As soon as the Ox approached the bank and was about to step onto dry land, down leapt Rat and darted into first place.

“The first winner,” announced the Jade Emperor. Further declaring next winners, “Ox in second place; Tiger in third; Hare in fourth; Dragon in fifth; Snake in sixth, Horse in seventh, Sheep in eighth, Monkey in ninth, Rooster in tenth; Dog in eleventh and final animal Pig in twelfth place.” The proud Jade Emperor applauded all animals, “Well done. From now on, every child born in your year will share your talents.”

But what had happened to the Cat? He was nowhere to be seen. From then on the Rat and Cat are still the worst of enemies.

The event was followed with a party full of dancing, feasting, and laughter. All animals rejoiced and wished each other health, happiness and wealth. And this had become a tradition known as Chinese New Year and remains to be the most important festival for Chinese people.

 

Source: The Great Race. The Story of the Chinese Zodiac by Dawn Casey