The names of 12 animals, rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig, known as the Animals of the Chinese Zodiac, are used to name the Chinese New Years. The animal name that corresponds to a person's Chinese year of birth is taken as their Chinese zodiac sign.
Chinese astrology holds that a typical person born under each sign of the Chinese zodiac has a set of characteristics and character traits, both positive and negative. These characteristics and character traits may not fully apply to all people born under that sign.
Chinese astrology also believes these characteristics and character traits are affected by the Chinese elements, Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth.
Ox Characteristics
People born in the Year of the Ox tend to be supremely self assured, and, consequently, able to inspire confidence in others. Oxen tend to be patient and thoughtful, thinking before they speak, so their words are clear and concise.
Oxen generally appear to be placid and easy-going, but they can be very dogmatic. They see things in black and white, with no grey areas.
Many Oxen are born leaders. Oxen tend to be stubborn quite often, in particular they are stubbornly loyal to those they love. When Oxen are opposed, their legendary fierce tempers are often displayed.
Oxen typically combine physical stamina and mental alertness, which are real assets when completing tasks. Oxen are often good with their hands, and make good doctors and surgeons.
Ox Character Traits
People born in the Year of the Ox tend to have these character traits:
- Positive traits: dependable, ambitious, calm, methodical, born leader, patient, hardworking, conventional, steady, modest, logical, resolute, tenacious
- Negative traits: stubborn, dogmatic, hot-tempered, narrow-minded, materialistic, rigid, demanding
Influence of Western Zodiac Signs on Oxen
Read about how the characteristics and character traits of people born in the Year of the Rabbit are influenced by the Western Zodiac Sign under which they are born.
Birthstone: Garnet
Each Chinese zodiac sign has an associated birthstone, that is intended to support the strengths of the zodiac sign, and to compensate for its weaknesses.
The aquamarine is the birthstone for people born in the Year of the Ox. Aquamarines are associated with peace, tranquility, physical health, women, and the spirit of the goddess. They are a transparent blue color that brings calmness and mental clarity.
Precious Flower: Narcissus
Each Chinese zodiac sign has an associated precious flower, which have a special meaning in Chinese culture.
The carnation is the precious flower for people born in the Year of the Ox. The carnation is strongly linked with Guan, the Chinese god of earth. In China, the carnation symbolizes wisdom, invoking a sense of fascination in those who look at it. Chinese people use the carnation to express their love towards their families.
Dates for Year of the Ox
The Year of the Ox is the second animal in the cycle of 12. It last occured in 2009, and will occur again in 2021.
Compatibility of Oxen with other Signs of the Chinese Zodiac
Chinese astrology uses the character traits associated with each zodiac sign to determine if two people are compatible. Followers of Chinese astrology consider this compatibility before commencing a business or personal relationship.
Typically, Oxen are compatible with Snakes and Roosters, but are incompatible with Sheep.
Ox Horoscope for 2012
Chinese astrological horoscopes are made for every Chinese Year, for the year in general and, in greater detail, for people born under each Chinese zodiac sign. For more information, see Chinese Astrology – Horoscope for 2012 Year of the Dragon.
Sources:
Chinese Astrology - Zodiac Signs
The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes, Theodora Lau, published by Souvenir Press, New York, 2005
Chinese Horoscopes - The Ox
Lucky Chinese Horoscope Gem Stones
Chinese Astrology and Precious Flowers
Mark Tibbits - A professional writer and educator who writes about Astrology, South Asia/China, the UK, the British Royal Family, and Religion.
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