The Chinese Zodiac (Shengxiao) assigns an animal to each birth year based on the Great Race myth. The Jade Emperor organized a race for animals to cross a river, with the first 12 earning a spot on the Zodiac calendar.

The Rat secured first place by riding the Ox. The Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Horse, Snake, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig followed in that order.

The calendar combines 12 Earthly Branches (animals) with 10 Heavenly Stems, creating a 60-year cycle. Variations exist, such as the Cat replacing the Rabbit in Vietnam.

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