2022 - Year Of The Tiger
Chinese New Year is just around the corner. The Spring Festival is happening earlier in 2022 as compared to the past 4 years. In Malaysia, the national holiday is on the first two days of the Lunar New Year. It has become a multiracial celebration in the country, just like Hari Raya, Deepavali, Christmas and other festivals.
The History and Traditions of Chinese New Year
The Lunar New Year was originally a ceremonial period where Chinese people pray to gods and their ancestors for a good planting and harvest season. Even though the public holiday is on the first two days of the festival, the most important part is the night before, the Lunar New Year Eve. It is the night where families gather to have a big feast and catch up, usually at the parents’ or grandparents’ house. There are several traditions for the festival. It is believed that you should not shower or clean the house on the first day of Chinese New Year, also known as Chor 1 because you will chase away the good luck. Red and gold are the auspicious colours to wear and decorate the house. Black is a strict no as it means bad luck.
Chinese New Year celebration lasts for 15 days. The 15th day is called the Chap Goh Mei where young unmarried ladies throw Mandarin Oranges with names and contact numbers for the single men to collect and reach out to. During the festival, the most popular food among all are dumplings, Poon Choy and steamed whole fish. Enjoying these dishes signifies a more prosperous career, love and life. In latter-day China where young people live in developed cities, while the elders live in rural areas. Travelling back home from the cities is called 'Chunyun' or Spring Migration.
Which Animals Represent Chinese New Year (Chinese Zodiac)?
In Chinese tradition, twelve animals are represented each year. The animals are:
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Rat
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Ox
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Tiger
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Rabbit
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Dragon
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Snake
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Horse
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Goat
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Monkey
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Rooster
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Dog
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Pig
What is the year of the tiger in Chinese Astrology?
2022 is the year of the tiger. It repeats every 12 years. Being in the third zodiac in the 12 animals, the tiger represents independence, bravery, loyalty and high self-esteem. It is believed that the people born in the year of the zodiac (tiger for this instance) are the unluckiest. Tigers never back down from challenges and difficult times, they push themselves through all the hardships. Tigers tend to succeed in their careers because of their hard work. They are also persistent and determined in everyday life. Tigers have a strong sense of justice and can be rebellious at times. The weaknesses of the tigers? They are generally impatient and furious.
Chinese people believe that the tigers are the guardians of their children. Chinese parents put clothes and shoes with tiger patterns on infants and toddlers to protect them from evil spirits.
2022 is the year of the Water Tiger, so as the year 1962. Compared to the common tigers, Water Tigers are more affable and happy-go-lucky. They bring positive energy and light to our lives. They are also loveable and kind to others. You might be surprised by the Water Tigers of how straightforward they are. They are full of ideas but poor at executing the plans. Water Tigers should marry at middle age as their career will be stable then.
The Types of Tigers
Besides the Water Tiger, there are Metal Tiger, Wood Tiger, Fire Tiger and Earth Tiger.
Metal Tiger: They are family-oriented, patient and generous. They can be successful in careers and businesses but must have realistic goals.
Wood Tiger: They live and do things with integrity. They don’t have much to worry about, a fairly smooth journey.
Fire Tiger: They are intelligent and composed. They spare time for learning. They are supportive of charity.
Earth Tiger: The smartest tiger of all. However, sometimes excessive and extreme actions make them lose a lot of money and time. They often have mood swings.
Compatibility with other Zodiacs
The tiger has the best relationship with the Pig. These partners are willing to make sacrifices for each other and help each other succeed. Besides the Pig, horse and tiger can build a positive friendship as they have mutual trust and respect for each other. Tiger is able to open up to the Dog but it takes some time.
