Can compatibility tests really work?

We naturally gravitate toward people who are similar to us. Often, it’s an unconscious act. We’re mysteriously drawn to those who exhibit our own values, mannerisms and even humor.

Our tendency to find those like us and establish relationships with them is ingrained in us from birth. Psychologists have observed small children finding other children like themselves to play with. Teenagers often congregate in groups in which all members look and act similar. Even gangs are pulled together and adopt a similar appearance.

Chinese Zodiac compatibility is a discipline that has been used for generations to identify the chances of people being attracted to one another. But, it’s more than merely a way to find love and romance (though that is a powerful way of recognizing a suitable partner).

Rather, the probable attraction (or repulsion) can be distinguished between any 2 individuals including business partners, friends, students and teachers. It can be applied to note the disparities that make people different.

Finding Compatibility In The Signs

Many people scoff at the idea of using a Chinese Zodiac compatibility test to find people who are like us. But, their skepticism is mostly due to a lack of understanding. The Chinese have studied the signs of the Zodiac for longer than most can remember. It’s not only an important component of their culture, steeped in myth and lore. It’s also a practical method of comprehending human nature.

The Chinese were among the first cultures to realize the link between personal human traits and the signs of the Zodiac. Each of the 12 signs typifies certain values and characteristics. Based upon these attributes, people who were born under the various signs are more likely to find a link in their commonalities and differences.

For example, a rat (the first sign of the Chinese Zodiac) is thought to be imaginative and witty. According to the Zodiac chart, rats are well-suited with dragons who tend to be dogmatic and decisive. Creative people often need someone who is decisive to propel the couple toward results.

The Art Of Finding A Suitable Companion

While the first attribute most people notice about someone is physical, relationships that are based upon such traits are fleeting. Other features are far more important and serve as the foundation for a lasting union. The Chinese have understood this since the creation of their Zodiac. And they’ve formulated their Chinese Zodiac compatibility tests to leverage this understanding. By identifying those to whom we’re exposed in the context of their signs, we can exploit our ability to find those who make suitable companions.

What To Do If Your Partner Isn’t “Compatible”

Even though compatibility tests that follow the Chinese Zodiac provide guidance, they don’t preclude 2 people from getting along in spite of their signs. In fact, millions of people enjoy fruitful relationships in seeming contradiction to the Zodiac. This is likely due to our ability to constantly look for the best qualities in other people.

If your partner was born under a sign that the Chinese Zodiac has deemed unsuitable or incompatible for your life, don’t end the relationship. Remember, compatibility tests based on the Zodiac signs are meant to guide you, not dictate your choices. That being said, if you’re currently without a partner, be open to exploring the suggestions of the signs. Generations before us have successfully established rewarding bonds by studying them.

The Chinese Zodiac remains one of the most persistent astrological references in existence. Throughout a rotation that lasts 12 years, an animal is used to express each year. Each of the 12 animals reflects a unique personality and set of character traits. While nobody knows for certain how the 12 animals used in the Chinese Zodiac were originally chosen, colorful legends abound. In this article, we’ll explore the legends of the Chinese Zodiac. We’ll also give you an overview of the animals, elements and trines studied by enthusiasts.

Legends Of The Chinese Zodiac

There are several legends that explain how the animals of the Chinese Zodiac were chosen. The first legend tells the story of a race that was sponsored by the Jade Emperor during the 6th century B.C. The emperor sent invitations to the race throughout the animal kingdom, requesting the participation of all animals. Only 12 animals appeared. Those 12 animals became the symbols of the Chinese Zodiac. 

Another legend claims that a magnificent feast was given by the Buddha. Every animal was summoned to join the celebration. However, only 12 made an appearance. They were chosen to represent the Chinese Zodiac calendar. There are also myths that explain why some animals (such as the mouse and cat) are such bitter enemies today.

The Animals

The 12 animals that comprise the Chinese Zodiac include the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Each of these animals represent different personalities and traits. Those who are born during a given year of the 12-year Zodiac cycle are said to embody the personality and traits of that year’s animal. For example, those born during the year of the tiger are said to be sincere, impulsive and quick-tempered. Others who are born during the year of the rooster are expected to be meticulous, scientific and conservative.

Most people in western cultures are aware of the 12 animals that encompass the Chinese Zodiac (even if they’re unable to name them all). But, they often don’t realize that there are many other animals of the Zodiac. For example the “inner animals” are based upon the 12 months of the Chinese agricultural calendar. Similarly, 12 “secret animals” reflect the hours during the day (1 animal is used to represent each 2-hour block).

Someone who is a rooster because of the year they were born can also be considered a monkey “internally” and a rabbit “secretly” depending upon the month and time of day that person was born.

The Elements

In addition to the animals used to reflect the year, month and time of birth, the Chinese Zodiac also includes the Five Elements (though a more accurate translation is “Five Phases”). These elements are wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. They’re used in conjunction with the 12 animals to reflect further personal character traits. While western societies tend to think of the elements as tangible matter, the Chinese see them as variable forms of energy. Each element reflects a directional and seasonal impact on a person’s character profile.

Animal Trines

There are 4 trines into which the 12 primary animals of the Chinese Zodiac are separated. While the rat, dragon, and monkey comprise the first trine, the second trine includes the snake, rooster and ox. The third trine includes the dog, tiger and horse while the fourth and final trine contains the sheep, pig and rabbit. These 4 trines are used to help people make the most effective life choices given their respective sets of personal strengths and weaknesses.

Following The Chinese Zodiac

Most people don’t realize depth and thoroughness of the study of the Chinese Zodiac. They mistakenly think it’s only governed by a set of animals that reflect personal traits. However, beneath the surface, there’s a larger perspective that includes “inner animals,” “secret animals” and “animal trines” that combine with the elements to construct a profile of each person’s characteristics. While some scoff at the validity of the Chinese Zodiac, others are often surprised to discover its level of accuracy. 

If you’re just getting started in learning about the Chinese Zodiac, it’s likely you’ve merely scratched the surface. There’s an exciting world below that awaits you.

For thousands of years, the Chinese have referred to their Zodiac for guidance. They look to the Chinese symbols for clues about their health, career and personal relationships. They consult the astrological signs for hints about their future and fortune. For the Chinese, these symbols have become as important as their own life experiences. By studying the symbols of the Zodiac, they find suggestive advice about the decisions they need to make and the likelihood of enjoying success and happiness in their lives.

Where do these symbols come from? How can they be used to live a more fulfilling life? Below, we’ll discuss the legends surrounding the Chinese symbols. We’ll also describe how their practical usage can provide guidance and advice while increasing the chances of enjoying rewarding personal relationships.

Origin Of The Chinese Symbols

The origin of the symbols of the Zodiac are steeped in lore and myths. There are a number of popular legends that are used to explain how the animals of the Zodiac were chosen. For example, one such legend describes a race that was organized by the gods. Animals were challenged to swim across a channel. The first 12 animals to reach the other side of the channel were given a place on the Zodiac. 

Another legend explains that the Buddha organized a celebratory feast. He invited all animals to attend the feast. However, only 12 animals made an appearance. These 12 animals were included as the symbols of the Chinese Zodiac. A variation of this myth claims that the Buddha was about to depart from the earth. He expected every animal to say goodbye. Only 12 did and he rewarded them by including them into the Zodiac (in the order in which they arrived to say farewell).

It’s unclear how the 12 animals were actually chosen to represent the Chinese symbols of the Zodiac. Their origin will likely always be steeped in mystery. But, their significance transcends their beginnings and people from several cultures continue to consult them for practical guidance.

Animal Trines And Compatible Personalities

There are 4 animal trines. Each trine is comprised of 3 of the 12 symbols from the Chinese Zodiac. They’re used to identify compatible and complementary personalities amongst people who are born under certain animals. For example, those who are born during the year of the dragon are included in the first animal trine. This trine also includes people born during the years of the rat and monkey. 

The personalities and motivations of those within this first trine are similar, even if they approach their respective goals differently. According to the Chinese symbols of astrology, this is the essence of compatibility. In this instance, while the dragon, rat and monkey are each driven toward success, they take varying paths to reach their goal. Each of the animal trines groups the symbols from the Chinese Zodiac in this way: similar and complementary to the others in the trine.

How To Use The Chinese Symbols Of The Zodiac

The Chinese symbols of the Zodiac can be used to make decisions that will affect you personally and professionally. That is, you can analyze the symbols to gain insight into decisions regarding your health, career, love life, fortune and even familial relationships. They can provide valuable awareness of your life and help you achieve a level of harmonious balance in the universe. These symbols can help you identify a compatible spouse. They can provide guidance in working with others at your job. They can even influence your interactions with members of your family. There are dozens of practical ways to use the Chinese symbols of astrology to improve your life and the balance you enjoy. 

People from cultures around the globe have always been attracted to those who are like themselves. Those who are pragmatic enjoy the company of others who are the same. Likewise, people who are instinctively affectionate and empathetic are drawn to those who have similar characteristics. At the same time, we need others in our lives who possess qualities that are complementary to our own. For example, a timid person can benefit from the courage of others. A brash individual can learn from people who are humble.

This is the uneven, often turbulent, science of compatibility. It governs our relationships with our families, friends, spouses and even children. The study of Chinese astrology signs compatibility offers a deeper glimpse into our fundamental personality traits. It dissects our attributes and mannerisms in a way that allows us to carefully analyze the likelihood of getting along with the people in our lives. In this article, we’ll explore using Chinese astrology to identify others with whom we’re compatible.

Using Chinese Astrology Signs To Find A Compatible Partner

We search for others like us throughout our lives. Some of us do so methodically, carefully planning our steps to leverage our success. Others do so instinctively, allowing themselves to be drawn naturally toward those with whom they’re well-suited. The Chinese have literally made a science of finding compatible people. By using the Zodiac signs (12 animals that represent the Zodiac’s 12-year cycle) to understand the underlying nature of people, they have been able to establish a system of identifying personal compatibility.

The animals in the Chinese Zodiac are each attributed a set of unique characteristics. These traits are analyzed for potential compatibility. For example, the rat is considered ambitious and charming while the monkey is known to be an objective motivator of others. As such, people born during the years of the rat and monkey are typically compatible. They tend to be similar while possessing personalities that complement each other. By observing Chinese astrology signs, many people are able to identify others with whom a personal relationship is likely to be successful.

Stacking The Deck In Your Favor

People often scoff at studying the Chinese Zodiac to isolate compatibility (especially those in western cultures). However, the Chinese have been using astrology signs and the animals included in the Zodiac to do so successfully for thousands of years. Finding people with whom we share specific personality traits can be difficult. Further, identifying those who also have attributes that that complement our own is even more challenging. Using Chinese astrology signs to find compatible partners is, in essence, stacking the deck in your favor. By focusing on those with whom you have the greatest likelihood of a successful relationship, you can maximize your chances of enjoying true interpersonal success with others.

Can Love Trump Destiny?

Of course, the signs of the Chinese Zodiac and the study of Chinese astrology is not an exact science. Neither is infallible. Instead, they’re merely guideposts that offer to provide an added level of consistency in identifying people with whom we’re compatible. In the end, the dedicated love you have for a person in your life (whether that person is a spouse, friend, or family member) can be stronger than the implications of Chinese astrology.

Millions of people experience fulfilling lifelong relationships with those whom the Chinese Zodiac suggests are incompatible. Keep an open mind. Use the Chinese astrology signs as counsel and advice in finding a compatible partner. But, allow your heart the room to accept and enjoy those who may fall outside the signs.

The Chinese Zodiac uses a 12-year rotation of animals. Each animal represents 1 year and their rotation signals more than merely the passage of time. The animals signify the disposition of the people who are born throughout that year. For example, those who are born during the year represented by the dragon are expected to personify certain character traits that the dragon symbolizes. Below, we’ll describe the traits embodied by each animal in the Zodiac calendar. You’ll gain insight into the temperament of those born during each of the Zodiac’s years.

Rat

The rat was the first to be added into the Zodiac calendar. Charismatic and hard-working, people born during the year of the rat can also be selfish and even ruthless. They can simultaneously show love and affection but become angered quickly. They form the first animal trine with dragons and monkeys.

Ox

People born under the ox are always dependable and make fantastic leaders. However, due to their unyielding personality, they can often be stubborn when they believe in their position. When they lead others, they’re often demanding (likely because they expect the best of themselves). They’re included in the second animal trine with snakes and roosters.

Tiger

Those who are born during the year of the tiger are usually lighthearted and this quality is reflected in their lifestyle. Though they can show passion for those around them, they’re easily angered and can be unpredictable. That’s due to their emotional side which has ample room for both love and selfishness. The tiger forms the third animal trine with the horse and dog.

Rabbit

Of all Chinese Zodiac signs, the rabbit embodies grace. They gravitate toward serenity and tend to be creative. Though these people are usually tender and affectionate with those who are close to them, they can also be quiet and reserved. With sheep and pigs, the rabbit forms the fourth of four animal trines.

Dragon

The dragon is considered one of the most brash of Zodiac signs. People born during the year of the dragon are nearly always self-assured of their actions. They’re usually great leaders because they make decisions quickly and confidently. However, their zest to push forward can often make them seem arrogant.

Snake

People with the Zodiac sign of a snake are often quiet. They think everything through (usually without consulting others for advice) before taking action. While many people think of them as wise, others see them as conniving. Snakes have a hard time getting people to trust them because they typically trust others very little.

Horse

These people are usually popular with everyone (though rats tend to avoid them). They have very little trouble talking with others. Most of the other animals within the Zodiac cycle are drawn to the horse. But, some feel they’re rude and suffer a superiority complex.

Sheep

People born during the year of the sheep tend to walk their own path. It’s not because they ostracize themselves. Instead, they merely like to have their own space. They’re empathetic toward other people and can often seem overly-sensitive when receiving feedback.

Monkey

Those who are born during the year of the monkey can be unpredictable. They’re smart and sociable, but have a tendency to be unfaithful to those who have placed their trust in them. However, because these people are animated, others tend to enjoy their company. 

Rooster 

Roosters are perfectionists. To their credit, they typically do a great job at whatever they task they take upon themselves. But, these people can often seem as if they have an ego. Others sometimes avoid the rooster because he’s boastful and opinionated. That being said, if something needs to be done well, the rooster is typically dependable.

Dog 

They’re faithful to the people they love. But, dogs also have a tendency to argue. People born during the year of the dog are generous and intelligent. That’s the reason most others enjoy their friendship. 

Pig

People who have the pig as their Zodiac sign usually get along with nearly everyone. Oddly, the only people they tend to agitate are other pigs. While they’re honest and patient, they can also anger swiftly. That being said, of all the animals in the Zodiac, pigs are the most likely to sacrifice themselves for others.

Knowing Your Chinese Zodiac Sign

While the traits and dispositions of the people around you may not always be consistent with their Chinese Zodiac signs, you’ll be surprised by how accurate the Zodiac animals are. The key is to know your own sign. That way, you can consider the personality and character of other people in relation to what the Zodiac implies. It’s not flawless. But, millions of people use what the Zodiac signs tell them to interact with those to whom they’re exposed each day.

The Chinese astrology calendar is based upon a different starting point than most western cultures (typically considered February 4th). It uses a blend of a lunar calendar mixed with a solar calendar. We’ll explain this in more detail below. The key to understanding the calendars used for Chinese astrology is to appreciate how the Chinese Zodiac cycle uses both animals and the elements. In this article, we’ll explore the Chinese calendar. We’ll look closely at how the cycle was derived by using astrological signs. Then, we’ll explain the Chinese agricultural calendar and its significance to astrology and the Zodiac.

The Lunisolar Calendar Explained

The Chinese astrology calendar uses a lunisolar calendar as its foundation. That is, it blends together the lunar calendar and the solar calendar. First, here’s a brief explanation of both types of calendars. The lunar calendar follows the phases of the moon. There are 12 lunar months that aren’t derived from the seasons. Most cultures no longer use this calendar. Instead, the solar calendar is used. Rather than following the phases of the moon, the solar calendar uses dates that are based upon the earth’s position around the sun. The Chinese astrology calendar is based upon a mixture of the two.

This “Lunisolar” calendar follows a strict 60-year rotation. It is comprised of 2 different sub-cycles. The first sub-cycle is represented by the Five Elements of Chinese philosophy. They’re commonly referred to as the “Heavenly Stems” or “Celestial Stems”. There are 10 stems; 1 for each element in both Yin and Yang forms.

The second sub-cycle of the Lunisolar calendar represents the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac. These are called the Earthly Branches. The calendar combines both the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches to create a 60-year cycle (5 elements multiplied by 12 Zodiac animals). Each of the 12 Zodiac animals can only be Yin or Yang (not both). 

Every year of the Chinese astrology calendar’s 60-year cycle reflects the Yin or Yang of one element and one of the animals of the Zodiac. For example, in the past cycle, Jan 25 1982 through Feb 12 1983 was marked by “Yang Water” and the Dog. The following period (Feb 13 1983 through Feb 01 1984) was represented by Yin Water and the Pig.

What Is The Chinese Agricultural Calendar?

The Chinese agricultural calendar breaks from the lunisolar-based Chinese astrology calendar. While it also follows a blend of lunar and solar calendars (based upon the moon’s phases and the earth’s position around the sun, respectively), it splits the year into seasons. This is done for agricultural reasons.

Within the past several years, many of the texts that reference Chinese astrology have begun to follow the agricultural calendar. This has had the effect of changing the point at which each Zodiac sign begins and ends. 

An Easy Way To Remember

Most people who are devoted to the study of Chinese astrology don’t memorize the changes of the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches during the Lunisolar calendar’s 60-year cycle. Instead, many of them rely on an easy method to remember them: the years that end with an even number (0, 2, 4, 6, or always reflect the Yang. Odd numbers are always the Yin. 

Enthusiasts use the Chinese astrology calendar to plan their decisions in light of where their fortunes lay throughout the cycle. These can include decisions about their career, personal relationships and even their long-term health. While the majority of people neglect to fully understand this calendar, many others based the decisions on which their lives hinge upon it.