EsoteriaA library of sacred & hidden knowledge
Horoscopes · Systems of many cultures

Chinese zodiac · Chinese zodiac 8

Goat

Goat · 羊 yáng

The Goat (羊 yáng), sign 8 of the Chinese zodiac: earthly branch Wei 未, fixed element earth, yin.

The Goat (or Sheep, as the Chinese word yang covers both) is associated with gentleness, artistry and kindness. It is regarded as peaceful and sympathetic, sometimes indecisive.

In Chinese astrology the year animal is only one part of a horoscope: the element of the year's heavenly stem, the month, day and hour of birth (the Four Pillars) and their interactions are read together. The traditional characterisations of each animal belong to folk belief and popular almanacs rather than to a single authoritative text.

Personality

gentle · artistic · kind · sympathetic · peaceful · creative · indecisive

In Chinese popular astrology the Goat, or Sheep (the word yang covers both), is described as gentle, artistic and kind-hearted, a lover of peace and beauty. Linked with the earthly branch Wei, yin and the element earth, it is associated with harmony, creativity and care for others.

Almanac portraits credit Goat-born people with sympathy, imagination, good taste and a calm, easy-going manner that puts others at ease; they are said to be generous with their time and devoted to family and friends. The weaknesses traditionally named are indecision, a tendency to worry, sensitivity to criticism, dependence on others' support and an aversion to conflict that can leave problems unresolved. Some Chinese folk beliefs even held Goat years less fortunate for births, an idea modern astrologers generally dismiss.

In love the Goat is portrayed as tender, romantic and devoted, longing for security and a harmonious home; the traditional triad places it in harmony with the Rabbit and the Pig. At work it is linked with the arts, music, design, gardening, teaching and caring professions, where creativity and patience are valued over competition. Chinese astrologers note that the element of the year and the full Four Pillars shape each Goat's character.

Sources and further reading