The Chinese New Year is associated with a 12 - year cycle of animals. Legend has it that the Jade Emperor decided to hold a race to select the animals for the cycle. The rat was clever and hitched a ride on the ox's back and jumped off at the last moment to win first place. Then came the ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig in order according to the story.
In Chinese New Year 2016, it was the Year of the Monkey. The monkey is often seen as clever and mischievous in Chinese culture. It represents intelligence and agility. There are many stories about monkeys in Chinese mythology, like the Monkey King in 'Journey to the West' who was extremely intelligent and had great powers.
Sure. There was a race among animals for the Chinese New Year cycle. The rat won first by cheating a bit. Then came other animals like ox, tiger and so on in order.
Well, the origin of the Chinese New Year story has deep roots. In ancient times, farmers would celebrate the end of the harvest season. It was also a time to worship the gods and ancestors for a good new year. Over time, various traditions like family reunions, feasting, and using red decorations which were initially to ward off evil spirits became part of this big festival. And the story of Nian added more elements to it, making it a more vivid and meaningful celebration.
The origin of Chinese New Year is related to a beast called Nian. Nian was a fierce and cruel beast that would come out to harm people on the eve of a new year. People found that Nian was afraid of red color, fire, and loud noises. So they started to use red couplets, set off firecrackers and light lanterns to drive Nian away. This gradually became the traditions of Chinese New Year.
One popular Chinese Animal New Year story is about the Great Race. All the animals were invited by the Jade Emperor to take part in a race across a river. The rat was very cunning. It hitched a ride on the ox's back. Just as they were about to reach the shore, the rat jumped off and won the race. That's why in the Chinese zodiac cycle, the rat is the first animal.
Well, in 2015 which was the year of the Goat in Chinese New Year. There's a story that the Goat is associated with prosperity in a way. Since goats can graze on the mountainsides and still be healthy, it symbolizes the ability to thrive in tough conditions. In some rural areas, when a family has a lot of goats, it was considered a sign of a well - off family. Also, in certain fables, the goat's horns were thought to have magical powers to ward off evil spirits.
Well, for Chinese New Year 2020, the animal was the Rat. One story about the Rat in Chinese culture is that it was seen as a symbol of prosperity and adaptability. Rats are known for being able to survive in various environments. In the zodiac story, the Rat was not the strongest or the fastest. However, it used its wits. It found a way to hitch a ride on the Ox, and just at the right moment, it scurried ahead to claim the first place. This story has been passed down through generations, and during the Year of the Rat in 2020, people might have reflected on the Rat's characteristics like intelligence and the ability to thrive even in tough conditions.
One interesting story could be the Monkey King's influence on the Year of the Monkey in 2016. The Monkey King is a well - known figure in Chinese mythology. His courage and intelligence are often admired. In 2016, people might have been inspired by his stories to be more brave and resourceful.
Chinese New Year has a long history. It originated from ancient myths and traditions. It's a time to celebrate the start of a new lunar year and reunite with family.