Description
The lunar calendar is based on cycles of lunar phases, although most of the lunar calendars are actually lunisolar calendars. This means that the calendar months correspond to lunar cycles; however, intercalary months are occasionally added to harmonize these cycles with the solar year. Among these calendars are Chinese, Hebrew and Hindu calendars, as well as most calendar systems used in ancient times. Lunar calendars differ according to which day the month begins. In the Chinese calendar, the first day is astronomically determined by the conjunction of the Sun and the Moon in the Chinese time zone.
Chinese Zodiac belongs to the oldest known astrological systems. It consists of 12 signs, each of which rules over one lunar year. These zodiac signs bear the names of animals (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig). In addition to the basic signs, elements are also quite important in Chinese horoscope: wood, metal, water, fire and earth. Chinese astrology is based on the knowledge of ancient astronomers and the traditional Chinese calendar. It is also associated with ancient teachings about three harmonies – heaven, earth and water, Wu Xing teachings, Yin and Yang, five planets, 10 celestial streams and 12 earth branches, etc.
In Chinese culture, the Ox is a valued animal. Because of its role in agriculture, positive characteristics, such as diligence and honesty, are attributed to it. Oxen are hardworking, but low key people, intelligent and reliable. They never look for praise or to be the center of attention, which can often hide their talents. People of the Ox sign rarely lose their temper, think logically and make great leaders. Ox gains all recognitions and prizes only through their hard work.
According to the lunar horoscope, 2021 is a year of the Metal Ox. This year will require a lot of discipline and extra effort in organizing time to solve the accumulated problems. In return, 2021 will bring good luck and no explosive or catastrophic events will occur, so this will be a favorable year for economic recovery or consolidation, a year of long-term investments (especially for creating reserves and stocks for the next unproductive years).
Artistic realization of the issue: MA Boban Savić, academic painter.
