Chinese New Year 2020: Year of the Rat

On January 25, China enters the Year of the Rat. Here, ECHEMI wish you and your family a happy new year! Why the year is called “the Rat” and what does this animal represent in Chinese culture? Let’s take a look!

The Rat is the first of all zodiac animals. According to one myth, the Jade Emperor said the order of the Chinese zodiac would be decided by the order in which they arrived to his party. The Rat tricked the Ox into giving him a ride. Then, just as they arrived at the finish line, Rat jumped down and landed ahead of Ox, becoming first.

The Rat is also associated with the Earthly Branch Zi and the midnight hours. In the terms of yin and yang, the Rat is yang and represents the beginning of a new day.

In Chinese culture, rats were seen as a sign of wealth and surplus. Because of their reproduction rate, married couples also prayed to them for children.

Optimistic and energetic, people born in the Rat year are likable by all. They are sensitive to other’s emotions but are stubborn with your opinion. Due to weak communication skills, their words may seem impolite and rude, but they are kind in nature.

ECHEMI wish all our registered members a wonderful and prosperous Chinese New Year!

May the shining and festive glow of New Year candle

warm your life day and night

May the breeze of the oncoming spring

fill you with special moments and prospect so bright