Rat (zodiac)

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“Year of the rat” redirects here. For other uses, see Year of the rat (disambiguation).
The twelve animals

of Chinese astrology:
Rat Ox
Tiger Rabbit
Dragon Snake
Horse Sheep
Monkey Rooster
Dog Pig

The Rat ( 子 ) was welcomed in ancient times as a protector and bringer of material prosperity. It is an animal associated with aggression, wealth, charm, and order, yet also associated with death, war, the occult, pestilence, and atrocities.

"I have conquered an empire but I have not been able to conquer myself." - Peter the Great, a Rat

"The best political weapon is the weapon of terror. Cruelty commands respect. Men may hate us. But, we don't ask for their love; only for their fear." - Heinrich Himmler, a Rat

"There is nothing impossible to him who will try." - Alexander the Great, a Rat

Contents

[edit] Years and the Five Elements

Persons born within these date ranges can be said to have been born in the "year of the Rat/Mouse," while also bearing the following elemental sign:

[edit] Attributes

Being the first sign of the Chinese zodiac, rats are leaders, pioneers and conquerors. They are charming, passionate, charismatic, practical and hardworking. Rat people are endowed with great leadership skills and are perhaps the most organized and systematic of the twelve signs. Intelligent and cunning at the same time, rats are highly ambitious and strong-willed people who are keen and unapologetic promoters of their own agendas, which often include money and power. They are energetic and versatile and can usually find their way around obstacles, and adapt to various environments easily. A rat's natural charm and sharp demeanor make it an appealing friend for almost anyone, but rats are usually highly exclusive and selective when choosing friends and so often have only a few very close friends whom they trust.

Behind the smiles and charm, rats can be terribly obstinate and controlling, insisting on having things their way no matter what the cost. These people tend to have an immense control of their emotions, which they may use as a tool to manipulate and exploit another person, both emotionally and mentally. Rats are masters of mind games and can be very dangerous, calculating and downright cruel if the need arises. Quick-tempered and aggressive, they will not think twice about exacting revenge on those that hurt them in any way. Rats need to learn to relax sometimes, as they can be quite obsessed with detail, intolerant and strict, demanding order, obedience, and perfection.

A valuable lesson for Rats is to learn to consider others before themselves, at least sometimes, and to avoid forcing their ideas onto others. Rats are fair in their dealings and expect the same from others in return, and can be deeply affronted if they feel they have been deceived or that their trust has been abused. Sometimes they set their targets too high, whether in relation to their friends or in their career. But as the years pass, they will become more idealistic and tolerant. If they can develop their sense of self and realize it leaves room for others in their life as well, Rats can find true happiness.

Traditionally, Rats should avoid Horses, but they can usually find their best friends and love interests in Monkeys, Oxen, and Dragons.

[edit] Traditional Rat Attributes/Associations

Attribute
Zodiac Location 1st
Ruling hours 11pm-1am
Direction North
Season and month Winter, December
Gemstone Garnet
Colors Black, Red, White
Roughly equivalent western sign Sagittarius
Polarity Yang
Food Pork, peas, cabbage
Positive Traits Meticulous, intelligent, charismatic, charming, ambitious, practical, industrious, eloquent
Negative Traits Controlling, resentful, manipulative, cruel, vengeful, stubborn, power-hungry, critical
Countries Flag of Germany Germany, Flag of Austria Austria, Flag of Sweden Sweden, Flag of Netherlands Netherlands, Flag of Brazil Brazil, Flag of Colombia Colombia

[edit] Famous people born in the year of the rat

It has been suggested that this section be split into a new article entitled List of Celebrities Sign (chinese zodiac). (Discuss)

[edit] Reference

[edit] See also

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