Why Are Zodiac Animals More Than Symbols in Vietnam?

When a Vietnamese asks someone how old he is, the response might not be a number like 20, 30, or 40. Instead, it could be “I am a Tiger.” In Vietnam, a person’s zodiac sign holds significant meaning, present in weddings, funerals, business openings and other important ceremonies.

Today, the zodiac animals remain a vibrant part of cultural celebrations, especially during Lunar New Year. Beyond their historical and mythological origins, these animals serve as a reminder of humanity’s connection to the natural world and the cycles of life.

Discussions Around The Origin

The origin of the 12 zodiac animals is often considered a product of Chinese civilization. According to the book “12 zodiac animals in Vietnamese culture,” the 12 zodiac animals originated from the ganzhi calendar, which appeared during the Shang Dynasty (1766-1122 BC) in China.

Other international and Vietnamese linguists showed that the 12 zodiac animals originate directly from the Vietic branch of the South Asian language system. The Vietnamese created the calendar and the 12 zodiac animals, based on astronomical observations. Accordingly, the Chinese adopted the 12 zodiac animals of the Vietnamese, which were later spread to other Oriental countries.

Despite the unofficial justifications for the origin of the 12 zodiac animals, both Vietnamese and Chinese zodiac signs bear certain resemblance to each other. Particularly, the 12 zodiac animals include Rat, Ox (in China) or Buffalo (in Vietnam), Tiger, Rabbit (in China) or Cat (in Vietnam), Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

The Rich Symbolism

Zodiac Of The Rat – The Smart One

(1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032)
In Vietnam, the rat holds the first spot in the zodiac for its intelligence and adaptability. People born in the Year of the Rat are quick thinkers, resourceful, and generous to those close to them. While they may seem unassuming, they’re strategic and determined to succeed.

Zodiac Of The Buffalo – The Born Leader

(1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033)
The buffalo is a symbol of strength and resilience in Vietnam’s farming culture. Those born under this sign are natural leaders, hardworking, and dependable. Though their path to success is often challenging, they possess warm hearts beneath their serious exteriors.

Zodiac Of The Tiger – The Powerful One

(1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022)
Tigers symbolize bravery and strength, making them revered figures in Vietnamese culture. Tiger people are ambitious risk-takers who aim for extraordinary achievements. However, their strong personalities may lead to social challenges, especially for women in marriage.

Zodiac Of The Cat – The Flexible One

(1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023)
In Vietnam, cats are cherished for their grace and practicality. Cat people are sociable yet mysterious, keeping a depth of thoughts that makes them intriguing. Their success and happiness depend on their ability to adapt.

Zodiac Of The Dragon – The Holy One

(1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024)
Dragons are sacred in Vietnamese and Chinese traditions, symbolizing power and prestige. Dragon individuals are born leaders, often talented but prone to arrogance. With balance, they can achieve greatness.

Zodiac Of The Snake – The Lucky One

(1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025)
Snakes hold cultural significance for their medicinal and symbolic roles. Snake people are charismatic, clever, and often fortunate. Their charm makes them irresistible in relationships.

Zodiac Of The Horse – The Nomadic One

(1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026)
Horses symbolize freedom and endurance, vital for Vietnam’s mountainous terrain. Horse people are independent, confident, and always on the move. Their adventurous spirit helps them thrive in dynamic environments.

Zodiac Of The Goat – The Dreamy One

(1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027)
Goats are known for their creativity and gentle nature. Goat individuals often dream big and excel in artistic fields, though they may struggle with challenges if they don’t stay grounded.

Zodiac Of The Monkey – The Cheerful One

(1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028)
Monkeys are lively and intelligent, always bringing joy to those around them. They thrive on variety and are satisfied with what they have, making them some of the happiest people.

Zodiac Of The Rooster – The Self-Righteous One

(1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029)
Roosters are symbols of diligence and style. Rooster people are confident and talented but can be temperamental. With self-awareness, they can turn their skills into great success.

Zodiac Of The Dog – The Faithful One

(1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030)
Dogs are loyal companions, and people born under this sign value trust and honesty. While they can be anxious, their dedication to relationships and family makes them reliable partners.

Zodiac Of The Pig – The Optimistic One

(1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031)
Pigs are symbols of prosperity and simplicity. Pig people are honest, generous, and live carefree lives. While they may not be the most ambitious, their positive outlook ensures they are content.

Your Zodiac Animal Can Decide Your Life?

The Vietnamese zodiac system holds their interpretations of animal symbolism, presenting a person’s characteristics and even fate. Therefore, many parents hold the belief that the year that their children were born can bring luck to the family in the future (e.g. years of Dragon, Snake, and Rooster).

Moreover, couples often check their zodiac animals (generally called “xem tuổi”) to test whether the age is compatible before getting married. In the worst case, families can oppose their relationships, ending up being separated despite the couple’s love. This is because couples with incompatible zodiac signs can live in poverty and face bad luck all their lives. However, many couples don’t follow this traditional belief and still choose to marry.

“My parents, despite being considered incompatible according to the zodiac, have lived a meaningful life together, raising good children and maintaining a deep bond,” shared Duyen, 25 years old.

Vietnamese people also check which year is suitable for their zodiac sign to commence on significant decisions such as founding businesses or building houses. For example, the year 2025—At Ty (Zodiac of the Snake)—is coming. Choosing a good day to open a business or shop not only has feng shui meaning but also the belief in a prosperous year of business.