The story of the China zodiac
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The selection and arrangement of the Chinese zodiac are closely related to the ancient Chinese system of earthly branches and timekeeping. Each zodiac animal represents a specific time period, reflecting the activity patterns of these animals during that time. Below is the correspondence between the twelve zodiac animals and the time periods, along with their explanations:
- Zi Hour (23:00-01:00): Rats are most active during this time, so the Zi hour is associated with the Rat.
- Chou Hour (01:00-03:00): Oxen are ruminating at this time, so the Chou hour is associated with the Ox.
- Yin Hour (03:00-05:00): Tigers are at their fiercest, roaming and hunting for food, so the Yin hour is associated with the Tiger.
- Mao Hour (05:00-07:00): The sun has not yet risen, and the moon is still in the sky. Legend has it that the Jade Rabbit is busy pounding herbs at this time, so the Mao hour is associated with the Rabbit.
- Chen Hour (07:00-09:00): It is said that dragons bring rain during this time, so the Chen hour is associated with the Dragon.
- Si Hour (09:00-11:00): Snakes become active during this time, so the Si hour is associated with the Snake.
- Wu Hour (11:00-13:00): The yang energy is at its peak, and legend has it that the heavenly horse gallops across the sky at this time, so the Wu hour is associated with the Horse.
- Wei Hour (13:00-15:00): Goats graze during this time, growing stronger, so the Wei hour is associated with the Goat.
- Shen Hour (15:00-17:00): Monkeys are lively during this time, so the Shen hour is associated with the Monkey.
- You Hour (17:00-19:00): As night falls, chickens return to their roosts, so the You hour is associated with the Rooster.
- Xu Hour (19:00-21:00): Dogs begin their night watch during this time, so the Xu hour is associated with the Dog.
- Hai Hour (21:00-23:00): All is quiet, and pigs are fast asleep, so the Hai hour is associated with the Pig.
This arrangement not only reflects the ancient Chinese observation of nature but also incorporates myths, legends, and cultural symbolism. The combination of the zodiac animals with timekeeping demonstrates the uniqueness of ancient Chinese temporal concepts and their profound understanding of natural laws.
