Ox
The Ox (牛, Niú) is the second animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. Revered for its strength, patience, and reliability, the Ox represents hard work, stability, and honesty in Chinese culture.
Those born under the Ox sign are known for their dependable nature, strong morals, and calm determination—the kind of people you can always count on.
Ox Zodiac Years
You are likely an Ox if you were born in one of these years:
Ox Years: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033…
Note: Chinese zodiac years follow the lunar calendar, not the Gregorian one. People born in January or February should confirm their exact sign by checking the zodiac start date for that year.
Personality Traits of the Ox
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
| Honest and dependable | Stubborn and rigid |
| Hardworking and disciplined | Sometimes too cautious |
| Loyal and trustworthy | May struggle to express emotions |
| Patient and persistent | Tends to resist change |
Ox individuals are often seen as the strong, silent type. They value tradition, work steadily toward goals, and rarely seek the spotlight—but they excel in leadership and responsibility.
Ox Compatibility
| Most Compatible | Less Compatible |
|---|---|
| Rat, Snake, Rooster | Goat, Horse, Dog |
- Best Match: Rat – Clever Rat balances the Ox’s steady nature
- Ideal Partners: Snake & Rooster – Provide intellectual and emotional harmony
- Challenging Pair: Goat – Opposing outlooks on stability and flexibility
Lucky Signs for Ox People
| Lucky Element | Lucky Numbers | Lucky Colors | Lucky Flowers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earth | 1, 4 | White, yellow, green | Tulip, peach blossom |
Lucky Directions: North and South
Zodiac Element: Each Ox year also carries one of the five elements (e.g., Metal Ox, Earth Ox), which adds nuance to personality and destiny.
The Ox in Chinese Culture
- In Chinese folklore, the Ox symbolizes strength, diligence, and prosperity. It’s deeply respected in agricultural society for its role in plowing fields and enduring labor.
- In the Great Zodiac Race legend, the Ox was tricked by the Rat into giving it a ride across the river—just as they reached the finish, the Rat jumped ahead to claim first place.
- The Ox is admired for its modesty, endurance, and reliability, traits essential for building lasting success.
Careers & Success
Ox-born people thrive in:
- Engineering and construction
- Finance and accounting
- Politics and civil service
- Agriculture and real estate
- Science and medicine
Their ability to plan long-term, work persistently, and stay calm under pressure makes them ideal for careers that require dedication and structure.
If you're born in the Year of the Ox, your inner strength, loyalty, and endurance will always set you apart. Though you may move at your own pace, your persistence and quiet power often lead to lasting achievement and deep respect.