The Ancients The Chinese Zodiac
16 snips
Jan 30, 2025 Join Professor John Steele from Brown University, an expert in ancient astronomy, as he delves into the fascinating world of the Chinese Zodiac. Discover the captivating tale behind the twelve animals and their connections to lunar calendars that have influenced Chinese culture for over 3,000 years. Explore the myth of the great race that established the zodiac, and learn how the intricate cycles of earthly branches and heavenly stems create a 60-year pattern. Uncover the zodiac's impact on East Asia and its enduring legacy through time.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Chinese Zodiac Misnomer
- The Chinese Zodiac isn't a true zodiac astronomically.
- It's a 12-year cycle linked to animals, coincidentally similar to the Western Zodiac.
The Great Race Myth
- One myth explains the zodiac's animal order with the Jade Emperor's race.
- The rat tricked the ox and cat, securing first place, while the cat fell into the river.
60-Year Cycle Mechanics
- The 60-year cycle combines the 12 Earthly Branches and 10 Heavenly Stems.
- Each year progresses one step in both cycles, realigning every 60 years.