In traditional Chinese culture, the 12 zodiac signs occupy a pivotal position. These 12 animals – rats, oxen, tigers, rabbits, dragons, snakes, horses, sheep, monkeys, chickens, dogs, and pigs – are not only closely linked to the year of birth, but have also left a deep imprint on folklore, literature, art, and other fields. However, it is curious why cats, which are loved by people in daily life, are not among the 12 zodiac signs.
To answer this question, we first need to go back to the origins of the zodiac signs. According to historical records, the concept of the 12 zodiac signs was basically formed during the Han Dynasty. At that time, there were no real domestic cats in China. Cats, as an exotic animal, were gradually introduced to China in later years. Therefore, at the time of the initial determination of the zodiac signs, cats naturally could not be included in them.
Of course, this is only the superficial reason. If we dig deeper, we will find more interesting and philosophical interpretations.
A popular saying is related to the legend of the Jade Emperor choosing the zodiac. In the story, the cat asks the mouse to help wake it up for the zodiac selection because of snooze, but the mouse forgets this agreement. As a result, cats miss out on the opportunity to become a zodiac. Although this story is mythical, it reflects the observation and understanding of animal character and human qualities of the ancients from one side. The cat is seen here as a symbol of snooze and laziness, while the mouse is selected for its wit and agility. This contrasting depiction undoubtedly deepens people's understanding of the images of the animals in the zodiac.
In addition, we can also interpret the absence of cats in the zodiac from the perspective of cultural symbolism. In ancient China, cats were not a widely kept pet. Instead, it's more associated with the wild, mysterious, and even **. In many traditional cultural works, cats are often depicted as mysterious, eerie images that are far removed from people's daily lives. Therefore, when formulating the zodiac signs, one may be more inclined to choose those animals that are closely related to human life and have positive symbolic meanings. Stories of traditional Chinese culture
However, with the changes of the times and the exchange and integration of cultures, the status of cats in Chinese society has gradually risen. It has gone from being a strange outsider to an indispensable companion in people's lives. Nowadays, cats have become pets in many households, and their cute, independent image is also loved by people. Although it has not made it to the list of the 12 zodiac signs, the cat has acquired a special place in people's minds.
There are many reasons why there are no cats in the zodiac. It is related both to the time when cats were introduced to China, and to the cognitive and emotional attitudes of people in ancient times. But in any case, we cannot deny the importance of cats in Chinese culture. In a sense, although the cat has not become one of the zodiac signs, it has been integrated into traditional Chinese culture in its unique way and has become an indispensable part of people's lives. It also reminds us that when understanding and passing on traditional culture, we should not only focus on the obvious parts, but also dig deep into the stories and philosophies behind them.
Fei Wenzhong. 2024-02-04 in Suzhou Kongdeju.
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