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Astrology is one of the most ancient Chinese arts. For centuries it has been influential in the lives of the Chinese, from emperors to peasants. Today it no longer plays a role in affairs of state, and yet it still absorbs the interest of millions of people all over the world. The history of astrology can be traced back thousands of years to a time when the arts of astrology and astronomy were the same. Astronomers observed the order and movement

of the stars to see what heaven was planning for earth and up to this century both astronomers and astrologers were respected officials at the Imperial Court. The Chinese almanac or Tung Shu, which is still produced every year, lists astrological and astronomical data for each day of the Chinese year. Using the guidance in the Tung Shu, many decide which are the auspicious days to open a business, marry, embark on a long journey or make other personal decisions.

The first reference to a yearly calendar dates back more than 4,000 years and tells how Emperor Yao commanded the astronomers Hsis and Ho to calculate a calendar so the people would know when the seasons began and therefore when to plant and sow. The Emperor could then decree the dates for the seasons and participate in the rituals that marked events of the agricultural year. Gradually, the calendar began to be consulted to decide on dates for important matters of state or to divine the fortunes of the emperors. Another 2,000 years passed before astrology was applied to individual fortunes.

The popularity of personal readings based on astrology soon started to grow, and by the T'ang dynasty (AD 618-907) an encyclopaedia had been constructed around the art of fortune-telling. Since then astrology has been part of everyday life for many of the Chinese.

THE TWELVE ANIMALS AND THE SIXTY-YEAR CYCLE

Although the twelve animals are the most popular and familiar aspect of Chinese astrology in the West, they are just one aspect of the Chinese system of counting the years. Chinese time is measured by a cycle of sixty years, and this cycle is formed by the interaction of astrological features known as Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches. These pair up to give sixty different combinations over a sixty-year period, and then the cycle begins all over again. In turn, they are also linked to days and hours, and to the twelve animals, and therefore your Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch also have an influence on your character and your fortune. And they are used in the more unusual 'Three Lives' system, based on readings traditionally made by a travelling fortune-teller at the birth of a child.

In this free section we will look at the Year of the Monkey, provide an analysis of the animal itself and look at the year to see how it will fare through 2004. the grand Duke

THE PIG

PERSONALITY TRAITS

Years 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

Intellectually curious, honest and tolerant, those born in the Year of the Pig can be relied upon for their loyalty and often make true friends for life.

Like the knights of old, Pigs are often highly regarded for their chilvary and pureness of heart, and will often sacrifice their own well-being for the greater good.

The Pig can be very naive, however, and may easily fall victim to the unscrupulous who take advantage of their idealistic nature - as Pigs see everyone as loyal and caring as they are. Although forced to play the fool many times, they will just as likely hold fast to the notion that everyone is at heart decent and admirable.

Stubbornly optimistic, the Pig will not tolerate those with well-meaning advice on how to be a Pig, but since they dislike quarreling and discord their anger usually cools quickly. Sometimes looked upon as a snob, the Pig just finds it right and natural to exhibit good manners whenever possible. Their main goal in life is in serving others, and no matter how difficult circumstances become the Pig will never waiver or retreat, forging ahead in the sure knowledge that all will be well.

Pig people love to read, are generally thirsty for knowledge, and not readily talkative, but if presented with an opportunity to discuss topics of interest with like-minded individuals Pigs may find themselves talking non-stop for hours!

People born in the Year of the Pig are trusted associates in whatever career they happen to choose and often shine as entertainers, social activists or politicians.

Pigs are most compatible with : Rabbit, Sheep

Famous people born in the Year of the Pig : Lucille Ball, Humphrey Bogart, Thomas Jefferson, Ernest Hemingway, Alfred Hitchcock, Mahalia Jackson, David Letterman, Arnold Schwarzenegger

THE YEARLY FORECAST FOR THE PIG

With the 2006 year of preparation behind them, those born in a pig year finally come into the full energy of their own sign. With all of the patient pig's attention to detail and hard work, the table has been set for this banquet year and pigs will enjoy sharing the feast with their family, friends and business associates. This will be a lucky year — with prosperity coming from success in business but also from unexpected money. Good fortune in 2007 is ahead for romantic adventures. A marriage for the pig this year is blessed with good omens. Family, always important to the pig, will be well taken care of and the home ruled by the pig will enjoy harmony and good fortune. Old business will be successful and new ventures will be fortunate.

THE MONTHLY FORECAST...

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