Each Lunar New Year, an animal is assigned to signify what the year has to bring. Babies born in these years are said to take on the characteristics of the animal, and people look to these zodiac signs to prepare for the year ahead.
2023 is the Year of the Rabbit. As you may be familiar with a rabbit’s foot as good luck symbol in Western culture, the Chinese Zodiac rabbit is said to bring good luck along with elegance, peace and wit. This year is said to be a year filled with hope, looking forward to all things the rabbit has to offer.
Along with an animal, Chinese astrology also incorporates the elements – water, metal, wood, earth and fire. This year is a water year which offers rest, relaxation and reflection after last year’s dynamic Year of the Tiger.
Zodiac animals signify more than just what the year may bring, or personality traits. Each animal has roots in Chinese traditions and legends. The Jade Rabbit is said to be seen in a full moon. The Jade Rabbit holds the elixir of life as it is believed he once attempted to sacrifice himself as food for the Jade Emperor. The emperor had disguised himself as a beggar to find a trustworthy and kind helper. After revealing his true identity, the emperor then took the rabbit to the moon to help create the elixir of life and can still be seen today. In Japanese culture, legend says the Old Man of the Moon brought the rabbit to live with him because of his great kindness. Instead of creating the elixir of life, it is believed the rabbit is making mochi.
Luck is seen in the rabbit because of its ability to wait for an opportune moment before leaping into action. January 21 marks the eve of the Lunar New Year, so with it being lucky and hopeful, it may be a great year to follow a dream.
At the second new moon after Winter Solstice (December 21) of each calendar year, China and many Asian cultures celebrate the Lunar New Year. This date usually falls somewhere between January 21 and February 20 on Western calendars. Lunar New Year celebrations signify prosperity, abundance, and togetherness.
Celebrations typically begin about 10 days before the first day of the new year, beginning with a deep-clean of the home. This thorough cleanse is said to wash away any bad luck that is lingering from the previous year. On New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, time is meant to be spent with family to celebrate ancestors. Red envelopes, also known as lai see, are filled with money and handed out to symbolize good luck and wishes. Often seen on Lunar New Year, dragon and lion dances are meant to chase away evil spirits and offer good fortune and prosperity. Red lanterns are hung to drive off bad luck and to scare away the legendary beast, Nian who fears noise, fire, and the colour red.
Every aspect of the Lunar New Year celebration symbolizes the importance of togetherness, prosperity, and specific aspects of the year’s zodiac. The Year of the Rabbit occurs in 2023, which is said to bring good luck, elegance, and peace.