When it comes to the Chinese zodiac, all signs – or animals – are not created equal. While each has its own positive and negative traits, the good fortune, power, and wisdom associated with the dragon is unique. Just this morning, I was listening to the radio, and the announcer called this sign, “king of all the other zodiac animals.” As the Year of the Dragon approaches, I find myself reflecting on what, exactly , makes this mythical beast so special in Chinese culture?
The first thing to note is that Chinese dragons are not like those found in western mythology. In ancient times, mariners prayed to this fabled animal to allow safe passage, and when they hit rough seas, they attributed it to his anger. Likewise, farmers made offerings to him so he would bring rain and blamed droughts on the displeasure of this beast.
The dragon is also associated with the emperor, who used his likeness as an emblem. Only he was allowed to wear a dragon stitched on his clothing. Those who dared to disobey this sacred code paid with their lives. Thus the dragon became associated with the emperor – along with his wealth and power.
Given the importance of this mythical beast throughout Chinese history, it is not surprising to find that couples plan ahead to have dragon babies. This year, if history is any indication, there will be a surge in births in places like China and Singapore, as parents seek to provide their newborns with the best opportunity possible for prosperity and good fortune in life.
But dragons must also beware in 2012. As with any zodiac year, people born of the relevant sign must watch their step. For example, when I mentioned to a friend that my 83-year-old father was a dragon, she recommended that he be especially careful this year and counter any bad luck by carrying a small piece of red paper or fabric in his pocket throughout the year.
The Chinese dragon is comprised of different parts of other animals, including the head of a camel, body of a snake, ears of an ox, paws of a tiger, scales of a carp, and antlers of a deer. As for those antlers, one legend says that originally, they belonged to a rooster. The dragon was jealous of his lovely red and gold feathers – as well as his beautiful horns – so the rooster agreed to lend them to him. The dragon immediately ran away with the antlers, and the rooster is still yelling and searching for them today, which explains why he crows each morning.
As in America, there are those who believe in these legends and those who do not, but either way, it’s lots of fun to consider the options, and when convenient, follow the sages’ advice.
Dragon years: 1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
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