Witness Post: Year of the Wood Dragon
We had a visitor from Japan and were given some “house warming gifts” from the Japanese traditions. The close alignment of the Japanese traditions to the Chinese was evident when our guest gave us a lucky charm with a DRAGON and a bell on it. We were pleased with the kind gift and wanted to research its significance to the people whose traditions we were following.
Below are some characteristics of those individuals who have been born under the Sign of the Dragon. [1]
2024 is the Year of the Wood Dragon
Dragon is the 5th animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac signs, coming after the Rabbit and before the Snake. Recent years of the Dragon include 2024 (this year), 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, and 1952, with the next Dragon year in 2036 (Year of the Fire Dragon). It is associated with the earthly branch symbol chen.
Those born under the sign of the Dragon are powerful, endlessly energetic and full of vitality, goal-oriented yet idealistic and romantic, and a visionary leader. They know exactly who they are and possess the keenest sense of self among the 12 zodiacs of Chinese astrology.
Like many aspects of traditional Chinese culture, the 12 Chinese zodiac animal signs are based on the Chinese lunar calendar, which differs slightly from our Gregorian calendar system.
If you were born in January or February, pay special attention to when the Lunar New Year (or Chinese New Year) begins since you may be the previous year’s animal.
Dragons present themselves as magnificent yet benevolent rulers who’re confident, generous, idealistic, and ambitious. In Chinese culture, these mythical creatures are in a class of their own, regarded as the givers of abundance and longevity.
Dragon’s confidence is neither false nor empty, as they hold lofty ideals they’re striving toward— usually for the benefit of their community instead of themselves. They are independent thinkers who’ll never yield their highest conviction.
Dragons are strong and independent figures, but they yearn for support and love.
Dragons are wise and adventurous and, at times, temperamental and impulsive. They’ll be loved and admired by many but find it difficult to return such affection. This will be one of Dragon’s most important lessons.
Even though they may not care to invest in relationships, Dragons cannot stay alone for too long without feeling desolate. Once they find that special someone, Dragons will guard that person as their treasure horde.
Dragon Strengths
Dragons are upright characters themselves and scorn any hypocritical or dishonorable behavior, and have a self-respecting pride that’s matched by Dragons’ wisdom, generosity, vigor, and talent. They’re full of energy and can attract followers with their charisma.
Dragon people are usually courageous and fearless leaders who’ll never back down from any challenge. This enterprising spirit, coupled with their innate talent, will, without a doubt, make Dragons the movers and shakers of this world.
Dragon Weaknesses
On the flip side of Dragons’ confidence and courage, they can also become domineering, temperamental, self-centered, and gullible. This last possibility seems difficult to understand until you realize Dragons believe themselves to always know best.
On the social side, Dragons can be prone to desperation in their younger years because they hate being alone, especially in love. They can come off as overbearing when they’re only showing that they care.
Dragon Zodiacs and the Five Elements Theory
The Chinese Five Elements Theory assigns one of the five elements—Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth—to each year, in addition to the zodiacs. So Dragons born in different years will have different personalities. This year we are celebrating the year of the Wood Dragon. By the way Michelle Patterson Obama is a Wood Dragon. She was born in 1964.
Metal Dragons birth years 1940, 2000
Water Dragons birth years 1952, 2012
Wood Dragons birth years 1964, 2024
Fire Dragons birth years 1976, 2036
Earth Dragons birth years 1928, 1988
There are a myriad of traditions and myths around birth, romance, occupation, health, and fortune attached to the Zodiac. Enjoy your own exploration of the calendar at your own pace and in your own time.
To sum it up, 2024, the Year of the Dragon, encourages us to be ambitious, creative, and strong in facing challenges. By setting big goals, being imaginative, staying resilient, building good connections, and balancing our efforts, we can make this year successful. Let’s embrace the spirit of the Dragon, face the future with courage, and make 2024 a time of inspiration and personal achievements.
References:
Henry E. Hooper 