Zodiac Year

Ben ming nian, also known as «the year of one’s zodiac sign,» is a concept deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Historically, it was connected to the 60-year cycle of the Five Elements, but in modern times, it refers specifically to the year corresponding to one’s Chinese zodiac sign, occurring every 12 years. This is commonly known as the «Zodiac Year.»

In Chinese tradition, Zodiac Year is often considered an unlucky year. The saying «Zodiac Year clashes with Tai Sui, no joy but surely misfortune» captures this belief. Because of this, Zodiac Year is sometimes called the «threshold year,» representing a significant challenge or obstacle to be overcome. During this time, people often take various measures to ward off bad luck and attract good fortune, such as wearing red belts, red vests, and red underwear. These red items, including popular «lucky belts» and «lucky knots,» are prominently featured during the Chinese New Year celebrations as symbols of protection and a hopeful sign for a prosperous year.

Zodiac Year begins on the first day of the Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year) and ends on the last day of that lunar year. For example, in 2010, the Lunar New Year started on February 14 and ended on February 2, 2011. For someone born in the year of the Tiger, if their birthday was after February 14, 2010, then that period would be their Zodiac Year.

What is «Zodiac Year»?

To understand the significance of Zodiac Year, it’s crucial to delve into its etymology and cultural context. «Ben ming nian» literally translates to «the year of one’s life» or «the original year of life.» This refers to the year that corresponds to one’s birth sign within the Chinese zodiac cycle, which repeats every 12 years. The Chinese zodiac is a traditional classification scheme based on the lunar calendar that assigns an animal and its reputed attributes to each year in a repeating 12-year cycle. The twelve animals are, in order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Zodiac Year is significant because it is traditionally believed to be a time of trials and tribulations. The common phrase associated with this year is «to offend the Tai Sui.» Tai Sui, in Chinese mythology, is a deity that governs the year and is believed to bring misfortune if offended. Therefore, those experiencing their Zodiac Year are thought to be particularly susceptible to bad luck and adverse events.

Historical Context and Cultural Beliefs

The concept of Zodiac Year has deep historical roots, dating back to ancient Chinese cosmology and astrology. The Chinese calendar is lunisolar, meaning it incorporates elements of both the moon and the sun’s cycles. The combination of the 10 Heavenly Stems and the 12 Earthly Branches forms a 60-year cycle, within which the 12 animals of the zodiac are embedded.

Each year in the cycle is associated with one of the twelve animals, as well as an element (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) which rotates every two years. This system of reckoning years has been used since at least the time of the Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 9 CE). The integration of the zodiac animals into this calendar system adds a layer of personal significance to each year, especially for those born under the corresponding sign.

The belief that one’s Zodiac Year brings bad luck likely stems from the idea of cyclical conflict inherent in many traditional Chinese philosophies. The 12-year cycle implies that each zodiac sign returns to its position in the cycle every twelve years, creating a form of cosmic resonance that can be either beneficial or malevolent. This resonance is thought to attract the attention of Tai Sui, the God of Age, whose influence is seen as a mixed blessing at best. Offending Tai Sui by having the audacity to be born under his rule in a given year is believed to result in various forms of misfortune.

Taboos and Traditions

Zodiac Year has a profound influence on Chinese cultural practices. To counteract its perceived bad luck, people often wear red or pray to the deity Guan Gong. Guan Gong is a deity believed to bring health and fortune, revered as a powerful protector. Red is considered an auspicious color, symbolizing happiness, success, loyalty, and justice. During Zodiac Year, people wear red clothes and accessories, particularly on Chinese New Year, to invite good luck and positive energy.

The Color Red

The tradition of wearing red during Zodiac Year is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture. Red is seen as a powerful color that can ward off evil spirits and attract good fortune. Historically, red has been associated with the sun, blood, and fire, all symbols of life and strength. Red decorations are prevalent in weddings, celebrations, and significant life events, signifying joy and success. Wearing red during Zodiac Year is believed to protect against bad luck and ensure safety and prosperity for the year.

The practice of wearing red during one’s Zodiac Year is based on the belief that red can ward off evil spirits and bad luck. This stems from ancient Chinese lore, where red was used to scare away mythical beasts like Nian, a monster that would terrorize villages during the New Year. To protect themselves, villagers would decorate their homes with red items and wear red clothes. This tradition has carried over into the custom of wearing red during Zodiac Year, symbolizing a shield against misfortune.

Worshiping Ben Ming Shen

Worshiping the Ben Ming Shen, or the deity of one’s birth year, is a Taoist tradition. Each year, individuals pray to their specific Ben Ming Shen for protection and blessings. This practice aims to reduce misfortune and increase longevity. The Ben Ming Shen is often seen as a guardian angel, offering divine protection during one’s Zodiac Year.

Wearing Red Clothes

Wearing red underwear and socks during Zodiac Year is a common practice. It is believed that these items should ideally be gifted by others to maximize their protective effect. This tradition dates back to ancient times when red was associated with victory, success, and protection. The Chinese believe that red clothes can ward off evil and ensure a safe and prosperous year.

Wearing Pixiu

Pixiu, a mythical creature, is often worn during Zodiac Year for protection. Known for its ability to ward off evil spirits and attract wealth, Pixiu is a popular amulet. Wearing a Pixiu is believed to bring happiness and good fortune, serving as a safeguard against misfortune.

Pixiu is a powerful feng shui charm that is believed to bring wealth and good fortune. It is a mythical hybrid creature resembling a winged lion, known for its appetite for gold, silver, and jewels, which it gobbles up but never excretes, symbolizing the accumulation and preservation of wealth. People wear Pixiu as jewelry, such as bracelets or necklaces, or place Pixiu figurines in their homes and offices to attract and retain wealth.

Using Red Insoles

Wearing red insoles during Zodiac Year is another tradition. This symbolizes stepping over difficulties and attracting good luck with every step taken. This practice is believed to bring stability, success, and continuous good fortune throughout the year.

Avoiding Misfortune

Many believe that Zodiac Year brings bloodshed and disaster. To preemptively mitigate this, some people donate blood or undergo dental cleanings. The idea is that experiencing minor «bloodshed» can help avoid more significant misfortunes. Additionally, maintaining a positive attitude and staying active can help navigate the challenges of Zodiac Year more effectively.

Donating blood or undergoing minor medical procedures is thought to be a way of appeasing the fates. The logic is that by voluntarily giving up a small amount of blood, one can avert greater harm or misfortune. Similarly, engaging in charitable acts, staying healthy, and keeping a positive mindset are believed to counterbalance any negative energies associated with Zodiac Year.

Historical Context

The concept of Zodiac Year dates back to the Western Han Dynasty. The Chinese used a combination of heavenly stems and earthly branches to mark years, associating each year with an animal from the Chinese zodiac. This system, intertwined with the zodiac cycle, forms the basis of the Zodiac Year tradition.

The heavenly stems and earthly branches together form a 60-year cycle known as the sexagenary cycle. This cycle is a combination of the 10 heavenly stems and the 12 earthly branches, with each combination representing a specific year. This cyclical calendar system is used not only for years but also for months, days, and hours. Each year is associated with a specific heavenly stem and earthly branch, along with one of the twelve zodiac animals.

Zodiac Year and Tai Sui

Zodiac Year is closely related to the deity Tai Sui, who is responsible for overseeing human affairs each year. Offending Tai Sui is believed to bring misfortune. Thus, during Zodiac Year, people often pray to Tai Sui for protection. This practice underscores the cultural significance of Zodiac Year in seeking peace and avoiding calamity.

Tai Sui, also known as the Grand Duke of Jupiter, is an important deity in Chinese astrology and religion. Each year, a different Tai Sui deity takes charge of human affairs, overseeing the year’s events. There are 60 Tai Sui deities, corresponding to the 60-year cycle. It is believed that the Tai Sui who governs the year is particularly powerful and should be respected and appeased. During Zodiac Year, people pray to Tai Sui, make offerings, and sometimes visit temples to seek the deity’s protection and blessings.

Personal Stories and Beliefs

The experiences and beliefs surrounding Zodiac Year vary widely among individuals and families. Some people share stories of how they faced unexpected challenges or setbacks during their Zodiac Year, attributing these events to the influence of Tai Sui. Others recount tales of taking extra precautions, such as avoiding major life changes or making important decisions until their Zodiac Year had passed.

For instance, there are accounts of individuals who chose not to get married or start a new job during their Zodiac Year, fearing that such significant events might be tainted by bad luck. On the other hand, some people embrace the year as a time of reflection and personal growth, seeing it as an opportunity to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger.

Scientific Perspective

From a scientific standpoint, the idea of Zodiac Year as a period of bad luck is often viewed as a cultural construct rather than a phenomenon with empirical evidence. Psychologists suggest that the belief in bad luck during Zodiac Year might be a self-fulfilling prophecy. When people anticipate negative events, they might subconsciously act in ways that increase the likelihood of such events occurring.

Moreover, the emphasis on red items and other protective measures can be seen as a form of cognitive reassurance. By taking tangible steps to ward off bad luck, individuals might feel a greater sense of control and confidence, which can positively influence their mindset and behavior throughout the year.

Modern Adaptations

In contemporary times, the practices and beliefs associated with Zodiac Year have evolved. While traditional customs remain prevalent, especially in rural areas, many urban dwellers approach Zodiac Year with a blend of traditional and modern attitudes. For example, some people might follow the custom of wearing red while also incorporating other lucky symbols from different cultures.

The influence of Zodiac Year extends beyond personal beliefs to commercial and social spheres. Businesses might launch special promotions or products themed around the zodiac animal of the year. Media and entertainment also reflect the significance of Zodiac Year, with television programs, movies, and books exploring the themes of luck, fate, and cultural traditions.

Conclusion

Zodiac Year, deeply embedded in Chinese culture, symbolizes more than just a cycle of years. It represents a blend of historical beliefs, cultural practices, and personal experiences that shape how individuals approach a specific year in their lives. Whether viewed as a time of potential misfortune or an opportunity for growth and reflection, Zodiac Year remains a significant aspect of Chinese heritage.

Understanding Zodiac Year involves recognizing the cultural context and traditions that give it meaning. From wearing red for protection to worshipping deities for blessings, the customs associated with Zodiac Year reflect a rich tapestry of beliefs and practices aimed at navigating the complexities of life. Whether one adheres strictly to these traditions or adapts them to fit a modern lifestyle, the essence of Zodiac Year continues to resonate, reminding us of the enduring connection between culture, identity, and the passage of time.

Learn more about the zodiac compatibility clicking here! What’s your sign?