What does the year of the Ox mean? To understand the Ox's significance for 2021, you need to understand what the animal represents. There are various Chinese myths, folk customs, and legends related to the Ox that have passed down several generations.
The Chinese zodiac, also known as Shu Xiang or Sheng Xiao, is based on 12 animal signs in the order - Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Each year is represented by one zodiac animal, such as 2020 was the year of the Rat, 2021 is the year of the Ox. Just like western astrology has twelve signs, each dedicated to a particular month determining a person's personality, compatibility, career, and fortune, the Chinese zodiac functions on similar lines.
Why is the Ox the second animal?
There is one myth that describes the reason behind the Ox being the second animal in the zodiac. It goes as; one day, the Jade Emperor of China decided that the structure of the zodiac would be based on the order in which the animals arrive at this party. It is believed that the Ox was amongst the first ones to reach but stopped on the way to give the Rat a ride. When the moment came, the Rat quickly jumped ahead of the Ox. Thus, the cleverness of the Rat made the Ox lose its first place.
Years of the Ox
Each year's zodiac animal representation is based on the 12-year cycle. The years of the Ox, along with their commencement and end dates are given in the chart below:
| Ox Year |
Start |
End |
Element |
| 1925 |
Jan 24 |
Feb 12, ‘26 |
Wood |
| 1937 |
Feb 11 |
Jan 30, ‘38 |
Fire |
| 1949 |
Jan 29 |
Feb 16, ‘50 |
Earth |
| 1961 |
Feb 15 |
Feb 04, ‘62 |
Metal |
| 1973 |
Feb 3 |
Jan 22, ‘74 |
Water |
| 1985 |
Feb 20 |
Feb 08, ‘86 |
Wood |
| 1997 |
Feb 7 |
Jan 27, ‘98 |
Fire |
| 2009 |
Jan 26 |
Feb 13, ‘10 |
Earth |
| 2021 |
Feb 12 |
Jan 31, ‘22 |
Metal |
| 2033 |
Jan 31 |
Jan 18, ‘34 |
Water |
Five Elements
The five elements namely- earth, wood, fire, metal, and water are the basis for every Chinese philosophy. These elements are considered the fundamental roots of the universe. Each Chinese element has its characteristics and plays a significant role in maintaining a balance.
The year 2021 is represented by the metal element of the Ox. People born under the metal element are known to be courageous, disciplined, and ambitious. They quickly cut ties, lack communication skills, and can be stubborn.
So how does the Metal Ox affect this year?
In the agricultural sector, Oxen were considered a farming tool. This led to Ox becoming a symbol of honesty, persistence, and diligence. According to Chinese culture, the Ox is a faithful and good-hearted friend (as depicted in the myth). After a tumultuous year, one lesson that everyone has learned is to keep their humanity and empathy alive. This year, we shall see more people forthcoming to assist those in need than in previous years. The Ox is known to make immense contributions to the development of society. Meaning we can see some improvements in the community.
Those who are born in the year Ox shall depict its characteristics. They will be hardworking, energetic & cautious, and be ever ready to help others. While the Ox’s earthly branch is associated with yin, it signifies passive and soft progress. In Feng Shui, the metal environment is clean and immaculate. To gain the most from this, begin to clean your home, reduce the clutter in your room and maintain tidiness.
While the year of the Ox does not hold any bad news, it is not home to any exciting news as well. This year is all about taking things at a slow pace and take care of yourself. Exchange
Chinese New Year wishes and
CNY gifts in the hope for a calmer and better year.
