What to Expect in the Year of the Metal Ox

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Chinese New Year is almost here and according to the Chinese horoscope, 2021 is the Year of the Ox. More specifically, the Metal Ox. So what does that mean?

Whether you believe in Chinese horoscopes or not, in China, when locals ask a person their age, instead of saying the number, they say what year they were born. And more often than not, someone will be quick to figure out exactly what zodiac animal you are.

In Chinese culture, the Ox is a valued animal. Because of its role in agriculture, positive characteristics, such as being hardworking and honest, are attributed to it.

Oxen used to be used in farming, which attaches to the symbol of diligence, persistence, and honesty. In Chinese culture, Ox is a faithful friend that made great contributions to the development of society. Like the ox, people born in the Year of the Ox are industrious, cautious, hold their faith firmly, and always glad to offer help. They believe that everyone should do what’s asked of them and stay within their bounds. Though they are kind, it’s difficult for them to understand persuasion using pathos. Rarely losing their temper, they think logically and make great leaders.

So how did the Chinese zodiac order come to be?

The Ox comes after the Rat. It’s believed that the Ox ranks second among the Chinese zodiacs because it helped the Rat during the race but was later tricked by the Rat. The myth goes that the Jade Emperor declared the order of zodiac signs would be based on the arrival orders of 12 animals. Ox could have arrived the first but it kindly gave a ride to Rat. However, at the sight of the finish line, Rat just jumped to the terminus ahead of Ox, and thus Ox lost first place.

What can this year’s Oxen expect in 2021?

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Compatibility

Most compatible with Ox: Rat, Snake, Rooster
Rat’s fixed Earthly Branch is water, while Ox's is earth. They have complementing personalities and hold the same goals in life. Snake and Rooster fit Ox nicely as well. Not only will Snakes give warmth and romance, but they also offer help and support in work too. Honest and loyal, they can also be attracted to the Rooster’s soft and loving heart.

Least compatible with Ox: Goat, Horse, Dog
The Earthly Branches of Goat and Ox clash strongly. They can tolerate each other’s differences, but there will always be tension. Horses have a free and wild spirit, and may not have a serious attitude toward life. This is the opposite of an Ox’s personality. With Dogs, it’s hard to find common ground.

Education

The Ox may find it more challenging to make progress in their studies this year. The Ox has an inherently strong work ethic, which helps bring a sense of steadiness to your learning journey. However, even with the promised stability, you need to do the groundwork for future actions.

You may find yourself choosing between different paths in your education this year, such as transferring to a different school, deciding on a major, or choosing a new advisor. Keep a level head while weighing these decisions. If you are prudent in your decision making this year, your efforts will pay off in time.

Relationship

Oxen may find it difficult to further improve the relationship with their partner this year. Hiccups in the relationship may affect the mental state, and certain events may seem out of your control.

Your partner might stray or harbor selfish ambitions during this time. Be patient. These hardships will pass in time. Though your road may be rocky, love and kindness will always bring you back together.

Unfortunately, the single Ox will not have much luck in love this year. Between their traditionally passive personalities and this year’s bad luck, this year will be a disappointing one for romance.

Consider taking this year to focus on learning more about yourself. Figure out what you want in love and what you can bring to a relationship. Love will come eventually, but this year may not be the right time.

Health

Be careful with your health this year. In 本命年 běnmìngnián (birth year), the Ox’s fortunes will become precarious. You will be more prone to catching minor infections this year, so make it a point to schedule routine checkups.

太岁 Tàisuì (the guardian God for everything, including one’s health, wealth, career, and marriage) will throw many curve balls at you this year, and these may cause you stress and anxiety. Ailments can lead to more serious problems if left untreated, so rest whenever you find the time to do so. Try to exercise more often, and stay away from risky activities whenever possible.

Lifestyle

Chinese astrology predicts that this year will start on a relatively low note for the Ox. Benmingnian’s conflict with Taisui will bring significant instability to your fortunes, and you can easily encounter something unexpected if you act rashly.

This should not prevent you from working on personal development and living your best life, however. If you ever get into trouble, do your best to adapt to the situation. With some hard work and determination, you’ll find your way out again.

Stay calm, and be patient with yourself—the wheel of fortune will turn in your favor soon enough.

Other Oxens you might have heard of:
Napoleon, Walt Disney, Margaret Thatcher, Barack Obama, Gerald Ford, Bruno Mars, Charlie Chaplin, George Clooney, Richard Gere, Dustin Hoffman, Vincent van Gogh, and Princess Diana.

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Source: www.chinesenewyear.net (www.thechinesezodiac.org)
Images: www.123rf.com

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