2015 is the known as the year of the At Mui or Wood Goat. This is because the Eastern zodiac incorporates the 12 animal signs (rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ship, monkey, rooster, dog and pig) and the five elements of metal, wood, water, fire and earth.
Goat is one of the oldest domesticated and most breeded animals. It is also considered to be one of the cleanest, which is why it is often used as an offering in many religious rituals and special occasions. As such, it has become a cultural symbol in many regions from West to East Vietnam.
The animal takes on many forms depending on each country. In the Greek mythology for example, the goat is represented as half-man, half-goat called Pan and is known as the god of music, hunting and wild nature. In the Norse mythology, they have the responsibility of pulling Thor’s chariot. In the Western horoscope, the zodiac sign Aries is symbolized by the goat. The Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Vietnamese zodiacs also highlight the said animal.
The goat is a very important animal that it also plays a big role in many poems, games and folk culture in general. The Vietnamese game “Close the eyes and catch the goat” is a tradition played by children for many generations past.
In Vietnamese culture, people who are born in the year of the goat are known to be hard-working, determined, trustworthy, reliable, flexible, humble, gentle, polite, artistic and adaptable. These characteristics make them ideal for such jobs as rescuer, policeman and soldier. But while their loyalty makes them good workers, the same traits can be their own disadvantage since they lack the self-confidence to showcase their talent or capacity. Their meek attitude also makes them susceptible to abuse from other people.
In terms of relationships, people with the goat sign are believed to be faithful, passionate and organized. But possessing the same general characteristic of being timid, they are too shy to initiate the first move and are therefore regarded as passive. But their want of a peaceful life makes them good partners as a whole. Moreover, although they lack the adventurous spirit and entrepreneurial skills, their dependable character gains them enough friends and support in general that they are still geared towards success.
2015 is hoped and seen to be a year of good change, peace and prosperity especially since 2014 faced countless struggles what with all the wars, epidemics and other global tragedies. Together with the positive attitude of the goat, the peaceful and harmonious auras of the wood are expected to make this year a turning point for all humanity to unite for a better, happier and truly peaceful world.
This year, Tet will be celebrated from February 19 – 21, 2015.