The Year of the Rat: A Time of Abundance and Good Fortune
(February 7, 2008 through January 25, 2009)
What
can you expect from the Year of the Rat (year 4706 in the Chinese lunar calendar)? The Rat is the first sign of the Chinese horoscope, signifying a year of new beginnings, abundance, opportunity, and good fortune. Rat's prosperity will influence all, regardless of your birth animal. This will be a powerful year where we will be clear and focused on their goals, dreams, and passions. Though world economy will be unstable, it will still be a great time to start a business, buy property, invest, and build on your nest egg, as this year wealth is more easily accumulated and endeavors begun now will have long-term consequences and thus can carry you through bleak years. All endeavors will prosper if you carefully plan ahead.
This is an auspicious time for working in the applied arts, dealing with practical matters, or performing work of a spiritual nature. Your focus on career and self-improvement may lead to family neglect so be attentive and creative to keep your family bonds strong.
As a pack animal, Rats love to socialize so expect a year of celebrating, socializing, and having fun. Also this is a promising year for new romances.
This year's rat is ruled by the element Earth, though Rat's fixed element is Water. Unfortunately, Earth and Water have a destructive relationship so do not rely too much on luck this year. However, the Earth element in a Rat year makes this a year full of new beginnings and accomplishments as the elements of Earth and Water come together. The Rat loves to take risks, while Earth is associated with practicality and stability so a balance between the two can lead to profits and increased productivity.
2008 will be a year of possibilities, steady progress, and new beginnings.
For more on the elements and the Chinese horoscope, see our article, Chinese New Year History and Legends or for more information, including the resources used for our articles on the Chinese horoscope, click here.
For more specific predictions for your sign, see the article on the Animal That Hides in Your Heart: Your Animal Sign.
More Information on the Chinese Zodiac
The Chinese zodiac can be fun and informative. Whether for amusement or as a tool for self-knowledge or decision-making, the Chinese zodiac can open your eyes to new ideas and limitless possibilities.
For more information on the Chinese zodiac, we recommend the sources used for this article:
Also, check for local celebrations of the Chinese New Year in your area. Click here for the
San Diego celebration on February 16- 17.
1998 – Year of the Tiger
1999 – Year of the Rabbit
2000 – Year of the Dragon
2001 – Year of the Snake
2002 – Year of the Horse
2003 – Year of the Ram
2004 – Year of the Monkey
2005 – Year of the Rooster
2006 – Year of the Dog
2007 – Year of the Boar
