According to Chinese folklore, the Jade Emperor, who ruled the heavens and earth, created the Chinese zodiac by assigning 12 animals to represent different years in the Chinese calendar. Among those animals was the Dragon, which the Emperor placed fifth in the 12-year cycle.
The Dragon is the only mythological creature in the Chinese zodiac. The official color of the Dragon has varied depending on the ruling dynasty of the time, but the Dragon has always symbolized the emperor of China and is considered a lucky year in which to be born.
People born in the Year of the Dragon are typically considered to have an abundance of charisma, confidence, power, and intelligence. They may also be a bit perfectionistic, holding themselves (and others) to high standards. Celebrities born in the Year of the Dragon include Bruce Lee, John Lennon, and Rihanna.
In the past century, “Dragon years” have fallen in 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024. According to the Chinese elemental theory, each animalic zodiac sign is also linked to one of the five main elements: metal, wood, water, fire, or earth. Each of the elemental Dragons appears in the Chinese zodiac every 60 years and is associated with its own character traits. For instance, “Wood Dragons” born in 2024 may grow up to be ambitious and driven, yet humble.
Here are 11 quotes that provide more insight into what it means to be born in the Year of the Dragon, as well as some tidbits of advice for living in the way of the Dragon.
The Dragon represents individuals who are always full of life and enthusiasm, with a reputation for being fun-loving and innovative.Vivienne Tam
Listen closely as the wind is / blowing. There is something / different in the air. / A cold wind that’s changing / everything. / Far ahead beyond the new horizon, there are dreams you can’t imagine. / It starts with the Year of the Dragon.Trish Thuy Trang
Shrewd and enthusiastic, the Dragon is the sign with the greatest power and the most powerful influence … Unlike the frightening Dragon of Western mythology, Chinese Dragons are benevolent creatures that live in the heavens and amongst the wind, mist, rain, thunder, and lightning.Shelly Wu
Clouds separating / Sun and the moon witnessing / The earth is speculating / The Dragon is coming.Zeynep Premdassi
You’re a Dragon, and of all the signs only a Dragon can tame the fates. Only a Dragon can wear the horns of destiny, duty, and power.Lisa See
It is difficult to predict the behavior of someone born in the year of the Dragon. Acquaintances can never guess what you are about to do or what you think. Many people are attracted to your charismatic character. You are quiet, serious, and dignified in everything you do.Man-Ho Kwok
When the Dragon acts in accord with the Way nothing can withstand him. When the Dragon is in conflict with the Way disaster swiftly follows.Nigel Suckling
In the Year of the Dragon, a little boldness will go a long way — especially if you time it right.Jill Dearman
In Chinese culture, the Dragon holds a significant place as an auspicious and extraordinary creature, unparalleled in talent and excellence. It symbolizes power, nobility, honor, luck, and success.Cynthia Li
Whether you like it or not, you are a child of fire. You / descend from the Dragon.C. Dale Young
I am an unquenchable fire, / the center of all energy, / the stout heroic heart. / I am truth and light, / I hold power and glory in my sway. / My presence / disperses dark clouds. / I have been chosen / to tame the Fates. / I AM THE DRAGON.Theodora Lau
Featured image credit: Annandistock/ iStock
