Year of the Dragon 2024
2024 is the Year of the Dragon, starting from February 10th, and lasting until January 28th 2025. The Dragon is the fifth in the twelve year cycle of Chinese Zodiac Signs. The Years of the Dragon include: 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940 and 1929.
Dragon Symbolism
In the past, the Chinese Dragon was a symbol of imperial power and was connected to the Chinese Emperor, Liu Bang. The founder of the Han Dynasty, asserted that his conception followed his mother's dragon-related dreams.
The meaning of the Chinese Dragon is very different from that of the European Dragon. While the European Dragon is associated with aggression and fire, the Chinese Dragon is a Rain Deity that promotes harmony and prosperity.
Moreover, rather than breathing fire, the Chinese Dragon breathes clouds or other substances associated to water.
They are beneficial rather than dangerous, and their heads frequently resemble those of camels or other animals.
Chinese Dragons are seen as the ‘Heros or Good Guys’ of the Orient, in contrast to Western Dragons, which are frequently dreaded.
Dragons are often seen as the most prestigious and charismatic of all the Chinese Zodiac Signs.
What's in store with the Year of the Wood Dragon in 2024?
The Element of Wood in Chinese philosophy represents growth and progress, even if this is very slow progress. Wood can be seen as a seedling sprouting something new, but this may not happen in a hurry. To grow into a tree, the seedling needs nurture, sustenance and time. Perhaps in a fast-paced world, patience is indeed a virtue we must strive for.
The Dragon is known as the luckiest of all the twelve animals of the Zodiac, and is often compared to the greater benefit of Jupiter in Western Tropical Astrology.
Wood Dragons although lucky, are also the most diplomatic of Dragons. This generosity of spirit, mixed with a keen eye for business and a sprinkling of good humour, could make 2024 a year that shows us that hard work and dedication can take us far.
