contributed by Sandy Kiyomura
The Chinese New Year in 2019 was February fifth: this corresponds with the beginning of both the sexegenary year of jǐ hài and also the zodiac year of the Earth Pig. The Pig is the twelfth of all the Zodiac animals. According to one myth, the Jade Emperor said the order would be decided in the order in which they arrived to his party. Pig was late because he overslept. Another story says he had to rebuild his house after the wolf destroyed it (sounds like the story of the Three Little Pigs!). When he arrived, he was late and could only take twelfth place.
The pig is also associated with the Earthly Branch and the hours 9 to 11 in the night. In terms of yin and yang, the Pig is yin. In Chinese culture, pigs are the symbol of wealth. Their chubby faces and big ears are sign of fortune as well.
Pigs have a beautiful personality and are blessed with good fortune in life.
