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One popular theory posits that the Chinese zodiac originated along Silk Road trade routes. Supporters of this theory say the various animals of the zodiac represent those that were introduced to China by Indian Buddhists. A second, and perhaps more widespread, theory focuses on the legendary Jade Emperor. It's said that he invited all the world's animals to a banquet, but only 12 turned up. As a result, he decided to honor these 12 animals—now popularly known as the 12 Chinese zodiac animals— by dedicating one year on the Chinese calendar to each. Yet another Chinese zodiac origin story claims that Buddha himself called for 12 sacred animals to protect his palace. He thus organized a race that involved The Five Elements of the Chinese Zodiac An equally significant but less widespread belief is that each lunisolar year is also accompanied by one of five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. In accordance with traditional Chinese philosophy, these five elements are also affected by the delicate balance of Yin and Yang. For example, 2021 will be both the Year of the Ox and Yin Metal, while 2022 will be the Year of the Tiger and Yang Water. all animals on earth to identify the most worthy. Finally, the top 12 finishers in the race were selected as his guards. Now, they represent the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. An Emphasis on Birth Year, Not Month Western astrology emphasizes the day and month that a person was born. The Chinese system, by contrast, regards one's birth year as the most important factor in determining one's fate. In fact, an individual's personality, as well as dramatic events that occur in his or her life, are believed to be influenced by the traits of the zodiac animal associated with the year of his or her birth. • Wood symbolizes warmth, elegance, sensitivity, and generosity • Fire symbolizes decisiveness, innovativeness, dynamism, and joy • Earth symbolizes honesty, prudence, and hard work • Metal symbolizes independence, ambition, and strength • Water symbolizes flexibility, diplomacy, kindness, and persuasiveness