Chinese Zodiac-Year of the Dragon

The Year of the Dragon (龙年) is a significant year in the Chinese lunar calendar, corresponding to the Earthly Branch “Chen” (辰). The Dragon is the fifth animal in the twelve zodiac signs. The Chen time, from 7 AM to 9 AM, is also referred to as the “Dragon Hour” (辰时). In the Gan-Zhi (干支) system, any year where the remainder of the year number divided by 12 equals 8 is considered a Year of the Dragon.

In Chinese culture, the Dragon is a powerful symbol of imperial authority and national identity. It is often revered as a creature capable of controlling the weather, and is celebrated as both a mythical and auspicious symbol. The Dragon holds a unique place in Chinese tradition as a representation of divine power.

The Dragon in Chinese Culture

Origin of the Dragon

According to ancient myths, early dragons were hornless and lived on land. They desired to become the king of beasts, challenging the Tiger for dominance. After a fierce battle, neither could claim victory, leading the Jade Emperor (玉帝) to call them to the Heavenly Palace for judgment. As a way to boost its stature, the Dragon borrowed a pair of rooster’s horns from the rooster, with the centipede vouching for the Dragon’s promise to return them. When both the Dragon and Tiger appeared in the Heavenly Palace, the Jade Emperor was so impressed with both that he declared them co-rulers: the Tiger as the king of land beasts and the Dragon as the king of aquatic creatures. From that point on, the Dragon was recognized as one of the twelve zodiac animals.

The Symbolism of the Dragon

The Dragon has always been a highly revered and mystical figure in Chinese culture. As a symbol of imperial power, Emperors often declared themselves the True Dragon Sons of Heaven (真龙天子), and the Chinese people referred to themselves as descendants of the Dragon (龙的传人). The Dragon is often imagined as a combination of different animal traits—its wildness comes from beasts, its wisdom from humans, and its spirituality from gods. These qualities have given rise to countless legends and myths surrounding the Dragon, which are deeply ingrained in Chinese folklore and literature.

The “Dragon Hour” and Its Significance

The “Chen” time (辰时), between 7 AM to 9 AM, is traditionally regarded as the Dragon Hour. According to myth, this is when the Dragons are believed to be active, controlling the rain and weather. This association further emphasizes the Dragon’s mystical and powerful nature.

Year of the Dragon: Key Historical Events

Notable Events in the Year of the Dragon

Several significant events in Chinese history occurred during the Year of the Dragon:

• 221 BC: In the Year of the Dragon (庚辰), Emperor Qin Shi Huang (秦始皇) unified the Six Warring States, ending centuries of warfare and establishing the Qin Dynasty.

• 9 AD: In the Year of the Dragon (戊辰), Wang Mang (王莽) usurped the throne and established the Xin Dynasty, overthrowing the Western Han Dynasty.

• 68 AD: In the Year of the Dragon (戊辰), Emperor Ming of Han (东汉明帝) ordered the construction of White Horse Temple (白马寺) in Luoyang, which marked the official introduction of Buddhism to China.

• 200 AD: In the Year of the Dragon (庚辰), the famous Battle of Guandu (官渡之战) took place between Cao Cao (曹操) and Yuan Shao (袁绍), leading to Cao Cao’s victory and establishing the foundation for his dominance in northern China.

• 1592 AD: In the Year of the Dragon (壬辰), the Imjin War (Japanese invasion of Korea) occurred, during which Li Rusong (李如松) led the Ming Dynasty forces into Korea to fend off the Japanese invasion.

• 1856 AD: In the Year of the Dragon (丙辰), the Taiping Rebellion (太平天国运动) continued, marking a turbulent time in Chinese history.

• 1916 AD: In the Year of the Dragon (丙辰), Yuan Shikai (袁世凯) died after his failed attempt to establish himself as Emperor of China, leading to political instability.

• 1976 AD: In the Year of the Dragon (丙辰), a devastating earthquake struck Tangshan (唐山), and Chairman Mao Zedong (毛泽东) passed away, marking a significant period in modern Chinese history.

Year of the Dragon Blessings

As the 2024 Year of the Dragon (甲辰) approaches, many international leaders and organizations have sent their well-wishes to the Chinese people and Chinese communities worldwide for the New Year. The Dragon, being a symbol of good fortune and power, carries with it blessings of success, prosperity, and happiness for the coming year. Many view the Year of the Dragon as an auspicious time for new beginnings, growth, and transformative change.