The Chinese have a unique calendar system commonly known as the ‘Farmers calendar’ or the 'Hsia calendar'. It is an enthralling system that provides us with information about prevailing elemental influences at any given point in time. It makes use of the five elements – water, wood, fire, earth and metal- and their cycles, to determine the various aspects affecting the world.
In Chinese astrology, the rat, being the first animal to hear the call of Buddha has many attributes that make up its character. The rat has a noble disposition, often torn between socializing and home life. They are quick thinking, agile and adaptable strongly valuing stability in their life.
Yes... 2008 is the year of the Earth Rat and it is influenced by two elements – earth and water. So, this coming year is represented by the image of Yang Water sitting below Yang Earth. In accordance with the destructive cycle of the five elements – Earth conquers Water. Whilst this is true, the Yang Earth sitting atop the Yang Water Rat suggests the image of a mountain floating above massive water or perhaps, a mass of floating ice. This combined with the water rat being in the foundation, means that water will yield the most influence over the coming year. This elemental relationship represents a time of apparent calm yet underlying tensions.
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