Chinese Zodiac-Year of the Horse

The Horse is the seventh animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle, representing independence, energy, and perseverance. People born in the Year of the Horse are known for their free-spirited nature and strong desire for freedom.

The Year of the Horse (马年) is the seventh animal in the Chinese zodiac and corresponds with the Earthly Branch “Wu” (午). It follows the Year of the Snake and precedes the Year of the Sheep. According to the traditional Chinese Gan-Zhi (干支) system, a year is designated as the Year of the Horse when the remainder of the division of the year by 12 is 10.

Basic Meaning of the Year of the Horse

The Horse is a mammal belonging to the equine family. It is characterized by a long face, a small head, upright ears, a short mane, and a long tail. Horses are known for their strong and fast running abilities. The ancestors of the modern horse, called Hippidion, lived around 50 million years ago during the early Eocene period. In the Chinese zodiac, the Horse is paired with the Earthly Branch Wu and ranks seventh in the zodiac cycle, positioned between the Year of the Snake and the Year of the Sheep.

Development and Evolution of the Year of the Horse

Origin

The Gan-Zhi system of recording years originated in ancient China, first appearing in oracle bone script during the Shang and Zhou Dynasties. This system was used to record astronomical phenomena and significant historical events. As this method became widespread, it gradually became a part of Chinese cultural traditions, including the Year of the Horse. The association of animals with the Earthly Branches was an easy way for the people to remember the passage of time, and Wu became the animal for the Horse.

Evolution

The concept of the Year of the Horse in Chinese culture can be traced back to the Zhou Dynasty, with early records of the Horse appearing in ancient texts. For example, in the Book of Songs (《诗经·小雅·车攻》), the phrase “吉日庚午，既差我马” was used, indicating the significance of the Horse in ancient Chinese society.

During the Eastern Han Dynasty, the scholar Wang Chong mentioned “Wu” as the year of the Horse in his work Lunheng (《论衡·物势篇》), further confirming the use of the Horse in the Gan-Zhi system. Excavations in Hubei Province in 1975, particularly from the Xiaogan (孝感) region, have provided evidence that the Year of the Horse was already part of the Twelve Zodiac system during the Spring and Autumn Period.

Basic Characteristics of People Born in the Year of the Horse

People born in the Year of the Horse are generally considered energetic, dynamic, and ambitious. They are known for their independence, strong drive, and a natural inclination to take on challenges. However, people born in this year might also face a busy life, with financial fluctuations and unexpected events. Despite these challenges, they are believed to enjoy family reunions and happiness in their later years.

Cultural Significance of the Horse

The Myth of the Celestial Horse

In Chinese culture, the Horse has long been associated with power, speed, and nobility. According to legend, the Celestial Horse (天马) once had wings and could fly, run, and swim. This mythical creature represents freedom and strength, symbolizing the close bond between humans and horses. The Celestial Horse is also tied to the founders of humanity, embodying the deep relationship between horses and human civilization.

Horses were integral to early agriculture, transportation, and warfare, playing a vital role in the success of ancient societies. They continue to symbolize progress, vitality, and the drive for success.

Influence of the Horse in Chinese Culture

The Horse symbolizes strength, speed, vitality, and enterprising spirit in Chinese culture. Historically, horses played a crucial role in warfare, agriculture, and trade. In ancient times, cavalry units were critical to military success due to their mobility and power.

Horses also appear frequently in Chinese literature, idioms, and proverbs. Expressions such as “马到成功” (Success comes quickly) and “马上封侯” (Promoted immediately) are used to express success and good fortune. The Horse has been praised by scholars throughout history and is often depicted in Chinese art and cultural works. As a cultural symbol, the Horse has deeply influenced Chinese history, society, and traditions, and continues to shape both the economy and way of life today.

Years of the Horse

The Chinese zodiac operates on a 12-year cycle, with each year corresponding to a different animal sign. The Horse years are:

• 1918 (Earth Horse)
• 1930 (Metal Horse)
• 1942 (Water Horse)
• 1954 (Wood Horse)
• 1966 (Fire Horse)
• 1978 (Earth Horse)
• 1990 (Metal Horse)
• 2002 (Water Horse)
• 2014 (Wood Horse)
• 2026 (Fire Horse)
• 2038 (Earth Horse)