While some may be cynical about astrology and horoscopes, the Chinese have developed theirs based on the lunar calendar with logical references to cyclical and natural phenomena. The lunar calendar, the oldest chronological record in the world, can be traced back to 2637 BC when Emperor Huang Ti introduced its use during the 61st year of his reign.
The moon was regarded by the ancient Chinese as having a profound influence on man. Being the closest heavenly body to the Earth, its gravitational pull causes the ebb and flow of tides. The Chinese believe that the four phases of the moon have their own functions and significance.
Under this lunar system, each month is composed of the four phases of the moon beginning with the new moon. Twelve months comprise the lunar year, and twelve years make up one cycle.
The years in each cycle are named after 12 animals. Legend has it that before Lord Buddha departed from Earth, he summoned all the animals to come to him. Only 12 animals came to bid him farewell. First to arrive was the Rat, then the Ox, the Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep (Goat), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and finally the Boar (Pig). In gratitude, he named a year after each of them, beginning with the Rat. He also proclaimed that all those born during that year would inherit some of the characteristics of that animal.
These animal characteristics determine, to a large extent, the nature of events that will take place each year. Other determinants in the very complicated system of Chinese astrology include the five elements of Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth which also profoundly influence one’s life. Also important in determining horoscopes are the kind of stars that appear in each particular period. The Chinese almanac or T’ung Shu, which is widely consulted by geomancers or astrologers, lists astrological and astronomical data for each day of the Chinese year. The appearance of "lucky" stars provides some basis for astrological predictions.
On the following pages let us look at how we will individually fare in the Year of the Monkey. If you don’t know or are not sure of your animal sign, check the table at the start of each sign to find out under which sign your birthdate falls.
Overall, 2004 will be an amusing and exciting time. Many personalities, and not only those from show business, will take the limelight and amuse, entertain, even shock us with their incredible antics. Politicians will be in their rabid elements this election year, engaging each other in one big poker game with everyone trying to outdo the other using all means under the sun. In world affairs, politics and diplomacy will take on a similar tact with scandalous and incredible events hugging the media.
The emergence of San Bi, the star of wars and disputes, will signify trouble in regions located in the East or in countries whose names include the word "East". The Water element will also be weak particularly during the second and third quarters of the year. This weakness could translate into severe water shortages during the dry season and devastating floods and typhoons during the rainy season.
However, the year of the Monkey will be progressive despite the difficulties and kinks. The Monkey’s natural talent for learning and advancement, its resourcefulness and confidence, will stamp their marks on the education sector as well as the business sector which will be engaged in competitive high finance transactions. Many world economies which have been suffering from recession will finally rebound.
Several lucky stars will abet the rise of certain industries. The appearance of the Yi Ma star will work well for the transport industry. However, public works do not look good and construction of major highways and bridges are not well aspected. The jubilant star Jin Yi will appear in the South this year and this means a boon for industries ruled by the Fire element. In the Philippines, the telecommunications, information technology and broadcast industries will experience windfalls.
Another lucky star, Qi Chi, will appear in the West and will signify prosperity for the entertainment industry. In the performing arts, revivals and adaptations will be particularly successful, both artistically and in the box office. Real estate development or relocation of business towards the West will be extremely successful particularly during the second half of the year.
On a sour note, the appearance of the star of sickness in the Southwest will trigger an epidemic of viral origin. Special attention should be given to health matters during the first two quarters of the year. A silver lining will, however, appear within the second half of the year as the pharmaceutical industry will discover a cure for a major disease. The Star of Jubilation, Jiu Zi, will appear in the South which is ruled by the Fire element. This situation will create too much fire and we should watch out for major conflagrations or volcanic eruptions during the third and fourth quarters of 2004.
Your lucky color for the year is blue due to the preponderance of lucky stars in the North. Other favorable colors are purple, gold and silver. Because of the appearance of the unlucky star Wu huang, yellow is out this year.