What is the meaning behind the Chinese zodiac signs?

The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle with each year being represented by an animal. The 12 animals that make up the Chinese zodiac are the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. The order of the animals is said to have been determined by their placement in a race held by the Jade Emperor, with the rat being the first to cross the finish line.

Each animal in the Chinese zodiac is believed to have certain personality traits and characteristics associated with it. For example, those born in the year of the rat are said to be intelligent and quick-witted, while those born in the year of the tiger are said to be brave and confident.

The Chinese zodiac is also closely tied to the concept of yin and yang, with each animal being assigned a yin or yang attribute. The rat, dragon, monkey, and rooster are considered yang, while the ox, snake, goat, and pig are considered yin. The remaining animals, the tiger, rabbit, horse, and dog, are considered to be balanced.