The Lunar New Year dates from 2600 BC, when the Emperor Huang Ti introduced the first cycle of the Chinese zodiac.
Because of cyclical lunar dating, the first day of the year can fall anywhere between late January and the middle of February. On the Chinese calendar, 2010 is Lunar Year 4708.
On the Western calendar, the start of the New Year falls on Sunday, February 14, 2010 - The Year of the Tiger. This year, the date has special significance since it also happens to fall on Valentine's Day making it a doubly auspicious day to celebrate in the West.
If you were born in 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998 or 2010 - you were born under the sign of the tiger. Like the tiger, you are one of the most caring and thoughtful signs in the Chinese zodiac. You have a lot to say on the best way to right society's wrongs, and quite capable of defending children, friends, and loved ones against all enemies.
For the tiger in 2010, any recent setbacks or obstacles can be overcome, so look forward to a year in which to really shine, either personally or professionally.
Characteristics of the Tiger
Like the lion in Western culture, the Tiger is the proverbial King of the Jungle, and admired for its vivid stripes that symbolize the balanced forces of `yin' and `yang'.
One of the most dynamic signs in the zodiac, Tigers are truly a force of nature. They are by turns dependable, unpredictable, fearless and stout-hearted, tender and loving. For all the world appearing at times to be quiet homebodies, Tigers may just as suddenly change course, and pack up to travel to some far-flung exotic destination.
As a result, they may sometimes be perceived as irresponsible. This is because few other signs can keep up with the Tiger's ability to think on their feet, or their primal desire for adventure and first-hand experience of life.
In family relationships, Tigers are extremely protective and will strike out at any perceived threat to home or children. In business and personal relationships, their air of charismatic authority often commands respect.
However, their regal attitude may sometimes turn into a firm belief that they know what's best for everyone, and they may sometimes descend into stormy moods of retribution if they fail to get their way.
At such times, standing up to a disgruntled Tiger is the quickest way of earning their admiration - just be ready for a battle royal!
Tigers can never sustain their fury for long, however and if you can ride out the storm, then surely peace will reign again.
Famous People Born in The Year of the Tiger
Sheryl Crow, Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Emily Dickinson, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Queen Elizabeth II, Jay Leno, Hugh Hefner, William Hurt, Dylan Thomas, Karl Marx, Marilyn Monroe, Marco Polo, Beatrix Potter, Demi Moore, Lionel Ritchie, Kenny Rogers and Jon Stewart.
General Predictions for the Year of the Tiger
The year of the Tiger is traditionally associated with massive changes and social upheaval. Therefore, 2010 is very likely to be a volatile one both on the world scene, as well as on a personal level.
Tigers who thrive on chance and unpredictabilty are best suited to navigating the many upheavals predicted in the year ahead. Those compatible with the Tiger - the Dragon and the Horse in particular - may also find 2010's erratic circumstances inspiring them to ever bolder action, and ultimate success.
Those born under other signs will suffer, by degree, depending on how flexible they are to change. Those who can keep a steady hand on the helm may be shaken, but undeterred by the typically thunderous events foreseen in any Tiger year.
For more specific information and learn more about what the omens are for your future in the New Year, check out related resources for the Year of the Tiger and find out what else the animals of fortune predict for you in 2010.
Tips:
Remember, whatever the omens portend, for better or worse, you are the final master of your own fate.
These ideas are provided for your enjoyment and amusement and are not meant to take the place of your own good sense.
Wishing you and your family a year of health and prosperity! Gung Hay Fat Choy!