The astrology that is practiced in the East is quite different to that of the West mainly because of the way each divides up and charts the year. The fundamental difference underlying the two systems is that, whereas in the West the calendar is based on the sun, in the East the Oriental year is based on the cycle of the moon. And whereas in the West the New Year is always constant, falling annually on the 1st of January, because the Chinese calculate the beginning of their year according to the second New Moon following the Winter Solstice, it means that their New Year is not fixed but may occur sometime within a span ranging from the middle of January to the middle of February. Unlike Western astrology which uses the Zodiac and symbolism of the planets, Chinese astrology uses twelve animals as a form of shorthand to represent the nature and character of those born in the different years. When analyzing an individual, it is the year sign that lays down the fundamental description of character, but this character is subject to refinement by the element, polarity and animal characteristics governing both the month and hour of birth.
Chinese astrology is a deep and complex subject when all the layers of analysis are overlaid.
Yet despite its complexity, it still allows ample scope for an individual to glean fascinating information about his or her personality even from a cursory glance at its ancient wisdom. All rights reserved.