Year of The Gold Ox

January 26, 2009—February 13, 2010

Ox and all cattle are blessed by the compassionate Chinese goodess Kwan Yin because of their gentle, peaceful nature. The ancient Taoists harnessed the Ox, but didn’t milk it, for they honored this strong, hardworking animal. In the Buddhist tradition the white Ox symbolizes contemplation and wisdom. Some translations refer to Ox as buffalo, water buffalo, bull (male) or cow (female).

According to an ancient Taoist legend, humans have a special relationship with Ox. In early agricultural communities, people often went for days without eating and feared starvation. To aid suffering humans, the Gods and Goddesses removed Ox from heaven, where she was a star, and sent her to earth. The divine ones instructed Ox to tell people that with her help they would avoid starvation and would eat every three days. Ox misunderstood and told humanity that they would eat three times a day. Ox had to make her words true, and that is why Ox must labor so hard for people and endure many burdens without complaint.

Ox Personality

The person born in an Ox year is methodical, dependable, hardworking, patient, diligent and ethical. She is independent, steadfast and careful. She won’t take action before having carefully thought through the entire project and planned out every detail. Ox believes in achieving goals step by step. Once Ox sets a goal, she won’t relent until the objective is attained. Possessing high morals and standards, Ox has integrity and can be trusted. Ox is usually self-reliant, believes deeply in what she does, and has faith in her ability to get the job done. She is noted for determination in accomplishing tasks. The Ox doesn’t seek shortcuts and sometimes disrespects those who do. Ox is generally an honest person with strong values.

Like underground seeds struggling to grow toward the sunlight, Ox can find life’s journey laborious and the rewards uncertain. Ox believes that if she applies herself and performs, she will be recognized and rewarded. Ox firmly perseveres and is not swayed easily by other people’s opinions.

Acting in Harmony With Ox Personality Traits

Projects and endeavors will generally be successful if done in harmony with the spirit of the Earth Ox. This applies both to the type and amount of new projects as well as the approach to accomplishing them. That means focusing on just a few, long term projects. It also suggests proceeding in a cautious yet determined manner. Finally, it counsels avoiding taking unnecessary risks and yielding to the temptation to seek short term gains.

The year 2009 will be a period of lasting accomplishments. Effort, commitment and duty will be the keywords for this year. This is true for individuals, societies and the human race in general. There may be times when motivation appears to be lacking. In fact, the big challenge everyone faces is to generate the enthusiasm and desire to act. Those individuals and organizations that do will create enduring benefits for themselves and the world.

The year of the Ox is time for hard work. Like Ox plowing the fields, we must toil during this year. Success is attained through diligent work and conscientious effort. Begin by putting your affairs in order, especially your home. Stick to routine, tried-and-true methods, and conservative actions. Wild, new concepts will not be well received (save them for the following Tiger year). Ox year is not a time for laziness. Those who won’t work, won’t eat. But, if we refrain from rebelling, follow the rules, and try to obey authorities, there will be a bountiful harvest.