Who is the cat in the Eastern calendar? - briefly
In Eastern calendars, particularly in the Chinese zodiac, the cat is not traditionally included among the twelve animal signs. Instead, the cat is often associated with the Year of the Rat, as a legend suggests that the cat missed its chance to be included in the zodiac cycle due to a mishap involving the rat.
Who is the cat in the Eastern calendar? - in detail
The Eastern calendar, particularly the Chinese zodiac, is a complex and ancient system that assigns an animal to each year in a repeating 12-year cycle. Each animal is believed to influence the characteristics and fortunes of individuals born in that year. Among these animals, the cat is notably absent from the traditional Chinese zodiac. Instead, the cat is often associated with the Vietnamese zodiac, where it holds a significant place.
In Vietnamese culture, the cat is revered and is considered the fourth animal in the zodiac cycle, replacing the rabbit found in the Chinese zodiac. The Vietnamese zodiac includes the following animals in order: Rat, Buffalo, Tiger, Cat, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. This distinction arises from a legendary tale that explains why the cat is not part of the Chinese zodiac but is honored in Vietnam.
According to the legend, the Jade Emperor, who was responsible for creating the zodiac, invited all the animals to a race. The first twelve animals to cross the finish line would be included in the zodiac. The rat, being cunning, asked the cat to wake it up when the sun began to rise. However, the rat deceived the cat and did not wake it up, allowing the rat to cross the finish line first. The cat, upon realizing the deception, was too late to participate in the race. In Vietnamese folklore, it is believed that the cat was saved by the Emperor and given a place in the zodiac, thus replacing the rabbit.
Individuals born in the Year of the Cat are believed to possess certain traits. They are often described as independent, curious, and intelligent. Cats are also associated with good fortune and are seen as protectors against evil spirits. In Vietnamese culture, the cat is a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and mystery.
The cat's absence from the Chinese zodiac but presence in the Vietnamese zodiac highlights the cultural differences and unique traditions within East Asian societies. While the Chinese zodiac is widely recognized globally, the Vietnamese zodiac offers a distinct perspective on the significance of animals in cultural and astrological beliefs. Understanding the cat's place in the Eastern calendar requires delving into these cultural narratives and their implications on astrological practices.