[Traditional Culture] The Legend of the pig in the Zodiac

The Pig (猪, Zhū), the twelfth and final animal in the Chinese Zodiac, earned its place through a mix of innocence, generosity. Often misunderstood as lazy or gluttonous, the Pig’s story reveals deeper virtues of honesty and contentment. Here’s its legendary tale:

According to folklore, the Jade Emperor’s zodiac race tested not only speed but also character. The Pig, known for its simple-hearted nature, became last due to a series of unexpected choices:

The Pig was strong but unhurried, prioritizing curiosity over competition. Along the way, it stopped to help others, like freeing a trapped bird or sharing food with hungry animals.

In some versions, the Pig encountered a lavish banquet prepared by immortals. Unable to resist, it indulged in the feast, losing track of time.

Honesty Over Ambition: When the Pig finally reached the finish line, it admitted its delay without excuses. The Jade Emperor, moved by its sincerity, declared it the “Guardian of Honesty” and granted it twelfth place.

This tale highlights the Pig’s unpretentious nature and the cultural value of integrity over haste.

The Pig and the Dog: A Bond of Honesty

In some myths, the Pig formed a friendship with the Dog (11th zodiac animal) during the race:

The Dog urged the Pig to hurry, but the Pig insisted on enjoying the journey. Their dynamic reflects a balance between duty (Dog) and contentment (Pig).

This duality mirrors the Taoist ideal of “wu wei” (无为)—effortless action through harmony with nature.

Symbolism of the Pig

Wealth and Abundance: The Pig symbolizes prosperity, fertility, and generosity. Its round body and love of food represent material comfort, akin to a “living treasure bowl.”

Yin-Yang and Elements:

Linked to the "Hai" hour (9:00–11:00 PM), a time of rest and reflection, aligning with the Pig’s relaxed demeanor.

Pig years (e.g., 2019, 2031) align with the Water element, enhancing traits like empathy, intuition, and adaptability.

Cultural Duality: While often stereotyped as lazy, the Pig embodies unwavering honesty.

Personality Traits: Those born in Pig years are said to be kind-hearted, optimistic, and generous, though occasionally naive or indulgent.

Mythology and Folklore:

In Daoist tales, the Golden Pig (金猪) symbolizes celestial blessings and is linked to the god of wealth, Caishen.

The Pig is a popular motif in Lunar New Year celebrations, with dishes like roast pork symbolizing abundance.

Pig-shaped savings pots (“piggies”) are given to children to encourage thriftiness.

The idiom “猪突豨勇” (Zhū tū xī yǒng)—“Charge like a wild boar”—pokes fun at reckless bravery.

Fun Facts

In some regional tales, the Pig’s curly tail is a mark of its celestial origins—a “heavenly knot” tied by the Jade Emperor.

The Pig’s legend reminds us that success isn’t always about speed; sometimes, it’s about staying true to oneself.

Despite its last-place finish, the Pig’s year is considered one of the luckiest for marriages and business ventures.🐖✨