From ancient times to the present, while Western culture has 12 zodiac signs, Eastern cultures, including Vietnamese, use 12 zodiac animals as a popular and important system for marking time.
The origin of the Vietnamese zodiac is believed to be influenced by the Chinese zodiac, which dates back thousands of years. According to legend, the Jade Emperor, the ruler of Heaven, organised a race to determine the order of the animals in the zodiac. The first 12 animals to cross the finish line would be honoured with a place in the zodiac. The Vietnamese zodiac, similar to the Chinese, is based on a 12-year cycle, but the Rabbit in China was replaced by a Cat in Vietnam to suit the natural geographical and cultural conditions, with each year represented by a different animal: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Cat, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
The Vietnamese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by a different animal. To ensure each year within this cycle is uniquely identified, ancient Vietnamese people used the Can-Chi system, also known as the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches. The Heavenly Stems comprise ten elements: Canh, Tân, Nhâm, Quý, Giáp, Ất, Bính, Đinh, Mậu, and Kỷ. These stems are paired with the Earthly Branches, which correspond to the 12 zodiac animals. Together, they create the Sexagenary cycle, a comprehensive 60-year cycle that assigns a unique designation to each year.
The Vietnamese zodiac with 12 symbole vietnamese year is deeply embedded in Vietnamese culture and tradition, playing a significant role in determining personality traits, fortune, and compatibility in relationships. Additionally, it influences various aspects of daily life, including important events such as weddings, business ventures, and festivals. Understanding the Vietnamese zodiac can provide valuable insights into the cultural practices and beliefs of the Vietnamese people.
Each animal in the Vietnamese zodiac is believed to impart specific personality traits and characteristics to individuals born in their respective years. Here is a brief overview of the animals and their associated traits:
Year of The Rat : 2032, 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948, 1936
The Rat, is the first animal in the Vietnamese zodiac, symbolising intelligence, resourcefulness, and charm. People born in the Year of the rat are always quick-witted, adaptable, and ambitious. They are capable of communicating and building strong relationships, thanks to their charisma. Known for their careful resource management, Rats often achieve financial stability. In Vietnamese culture, the Rat symbolises wealth and prosperity, admired for its resilience and ingenuity.
Year of The Ox: 2021, 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, 1937, 1925
The Ox, is the second of 12 animals of the vietnamese zodiac, symbolising strength, dependability, and hard working. People born in the Year of the Ox are known for their resilience, reliability, and strong work ethic. They are patient, honest, and practical, often serving as the backbone of their families and communities. In Vietnamese culture, the Ox represents prosperity through diligence and perseverance, admired for its contributions to stability and growth. Those born under this sign embody the virtues of hard work and reliability, making them respected and valued members of society.
Year of The Tiger: 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, 1938, 1926
The Tiger, in the Vietnamese zodiac, symbolises bravery, competitiveness, and confidence. Individuals born in the Year of the Tiger are fearless leaders, propelled by a robust competitive spirit and inherent self-assurance. They pursue their goals with vigour and determination, frequently attaining success and garnering respect. In Vietnamese culture, the Tiger is esteemed for its strength and valour, embodying the quintessential qualities of a true warrior.
Year of The Cat: 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1964, 1951, 1939, 1927
The Cat is ranked behind tigers in the vietnamese animal zodiac, which symbolises gentleness, sensitivity, and thoughtfulness. People born in the Year of the Cat are known for their compassionate and empathetic nature, often thinking deeply about their actions and the feelings of others. They possess a calm demeanour and are considerate, making them nurturing and supportive individuals. In Vietnamese culture, the Cat is appreciated for its grace and quiet strength, embodying the qualities of a caring and thoughtful personality.
Year of The Dragon: 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928
People choose the dragon as one of 12 animals of the vietnamese zodiac because they choose it as the king of all creatures. Dragon is essentially the cloud of the sky, the owner of the sky's life force and it represents ultimate authority, power, ambition, and passion. People born in the Year of the Dragon are dynamic and enthusiastic, always striving for excellence and driven by a strong sense of ambition. They possess a natural charisma and energy that makes them inspirational figures, often leading others with their vision and determination. Vietnamese New Year crossword clues about dragons are always loved by young people. It is not only a sacred symbol to the legend of "the Dragon and the Fairy”, but also a representation of strength and prosperity.
Year of The Snake: 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, 1929
The Snake symbolises wisdom, enigma, and intuition is the following animal chosen in the sequence of the Vietnamese zodiac. People born in the Year of the Snake are known for their deep insight and perceptiveness, often possessing a profound understanding of complex matters. They are mysterious and enigmatic, drawing others in with their intriguing nature. Their strong intuition allows them to navigate life with a keen sense of awareness and foresight. In Vietnamese culture, the Snake is respected for its intelligence and subtle power, embodying the qualities of a wise and intuitive individual.
Year of The Horse: 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, 1930
The Horse holds the seventh position of 12 animals of the vietnamese zodiac and represents vitality, independence, and adventure. People of Horse are celebrated for their enthusiasm and zest for life. They are adventurous, relishing new experiences and constantly seeking excitement and freedom. Their energetic and spirited nature renders them dynamic and lively, inspiring those around them. In Vietnamese culture, the Horse is revered for its vitality and unrestrained spirit, embodying the essence of an energetic and adventurous soul.
Year of The Goat: 2027, 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, 1931
In vietnamese animal zodiac, The Goat symbolises calmness, kindness, and artistry. People born in the Year of the Goat are known for their gentle and compassionate nature. They possess a calm demeanour and are often very nurturing and supportive to those around them. Goats also have a strong artistic sense, appreciating beauty and expressing creativity in various forms. In Vietnamese culture, the Goat is admired for its tranquillity and kindness, embodying the qualities of a calm and artistic individual.
Year of The Monkey: 2028, 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, 1932
The Monkey represents inquisitiveness, intelligence, and playfulness, pursuing activities that pique their interest. Those born in the Year of the Monkey are celebrated for their keen intellect and resourcefulness, often coming up with innovative solutions to problems. Their playful and mischievous demeanour brings happiness and laughter to those around them. Their curiosity propels them to seek out new ideas and experiences, making them vibrant and adaptable personalities. Vietnamese New Year crossword clues about Monkey are admired for its cunning and spirited nature, embodying the traits of a curious and clever character.
Year of The Rooster: 2029, 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, 1933
The Rooster, is the tenth animal in vietnamese 12 zodiac animals and signifies observance, hard work, and honesty. People born in the Year of the Rooster are known for their meticulous nature and strong work ethic, paying close attention to detail in everything they do. They are diligent and reliable, often achieving success through their perseverance and dedication. Their honesty and straightforwardness make them trustworthy individuals who value integrity. In Vietnamese culture, the Rooster is admired for its vigilance and sincerity, embodying the qualities of a hardworking and honest person.
Year of The Dog: 2030, 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, 1934
Just like the Cat, The Dog is animal loved by everyone for their loyalty, honesty and protection. Those born under the Year of the Dog are full of unwavering loyalty and commitment to their loved ones. They are honest and straightforward, often valued for their integrity and trustworthiness. Their protective nature makes them dependable and caring, always looking out for the well-being of others. In Vietnamese culture, the Dog is revered for its faithfulness and guardianship, embodying the qualities of a loyal and honest protector.
Year of The Pig: 2031, 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, 1935
The Pig, last animal in the Vietnamese zodiac epitomises generosity, compassion, and kindness. People born under this sign are known for their benevolent nature and their willingness to help others. They often exhibit deep empathy, understanding the needs and emotions of those around them. Their kind-heartedness makes them approachable and beloved by many, as they naturally foster a sense of warmth and community. In Vietnamese culture, the Pig is admired for these qualities, representing the ideal of selfless giving and nurturing care.
Besides the discovery of vietnamese 12 zodiac animals, to make your Tet Holiday exploration more engaging, try solving a Vietnamese New Year crossword puzzle.
The Vietnamese New Year crossword is designed with themes centred around TÊT with the customs, foods, and significant symbols of Tết. While 12 animals of the vietnamese zodiac play a crucial role, the puzzles also include keywords related to traditional dishes like bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake), festive decorations like hoa mai (apricot flowers), and significant practices such as lì xì (giving lucky money).
The rule of Vietnamese New Year crossword puzzle
The rules of the Vietnamese New Year crossword puzzle are simple and follow the standard format of crossword puzzles. The game consists of a grid where players fill in words based on clues provided for both "across" and "down" directions. Each clue leads to a keyword related to Tết, with a given number of letters. For example, a clue for "across" might be "Traditional cake made from sticky rice”, to which the answer would be "bánh chưng”.
①. Square ___ rice cake or Chung cake is a special food of Tet which represents for the land.
②. On New Year's Eve, people watch ____ and make wishes.
③. At Tet, people go to ___ to pray for health, luck and happiness.
④. Dried candied fruits and roasted ____ seeds are everyone's favourite Tet holiday snack.
⑤. Tet holiday is also called ___ new year.
This game is particularly attractive to children and young people as it combines fun with learning. As they solve the crossword, they are introduced to various aspects of Vietnamese New Year traditions. It’s a wonderful way for them to learn about their heritage and the cultural significance of Tết. Additionally, Vietnamese New Year crossword puzzles can be played in a competitive format, making it a lively activity during family gatherings. To enhance the enjoyment and educational value, some crosswords come with illustrations or explanations of the keywords, helping players understand their significance. Furthermore, this game can be adapted for various skill levels, from simple puzzles for young children to more challenging ones for older players and adults.
In conclusion, exploring the Vietnamese zodiac and engaging in Vietnamese New Year crossword puzzles offers a delightful and enriching experience. These activities provide a unique blend of cultural education and entertainment, allowing you to deepen your understanding of Têt's traditions and symbols. Whether you're uncovering the stories behind the twelve zodiac animals or solving clues related to festive customs, you will find joy and enlightenment in this journey. Embrace the spirit of the Vietnamese New Year and immerse yourself in a celebration of heritage and fun.
In 12 animals of the vietnamese zodiac, lucky colours for the Rat include blue, gold, and green. These colours can help amplify the Rat's natural intelligence and resourcefulness. On the flip side, the unlucky colours for the Rat are yellow and brown, which might dampen their usually sharp mind and energy.
Rabbits were viewed as animals used for food, while cats were considered a "friendly" animal. Rabbits are also not commonly raised in Vietnam. Another explanation states that in Vietnamese folklore, the cat (which was tricked out of the race by the rat in Chinese legend) actually finishes the race.
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