Marco Polo and the Chinese Zodiac

Author: Derek Walters
Abstract: Despite Chinese Astrology’s long history, the celebrated ‘Chinese Zodiac’ did not appear in China until the sixth century. Whatever its origins, it was indeed a happy invention, for in replacing ancient Chinese seal-script signs, the twelve animal names helped the astrologer and client to understand the astrological significance of the hours of the day, the months of the year, and the harmonious relationships between them. This paper offers suggestions regarding the possible sources of the Twelve Animals, and shows briefly how they are used in interpreting Chinese horoscopes.
Keywords: Chinese astrology, seal-script signs, twelve animals,
Notes:
Publication: Astrology and the Academy: papers from the inaugural conference of the Sophia Centre (published by C
Issue:
Dated: 2004
Pages: 159 – 163